Event
By Kristie Lau-Adams
Home to a diverse mix of experiences to spark inspiration and put smiles on dials, Brisbane is rapidly morphing into Australia’s cultural capital.
But did you know the calendar ramps up significantly every spring? From electrifying live music through Beats of Brisbane to feats of athletic heroism and kid-friendly extravaganzas, spectacular Brisbane events blossom throughout the city from September to November.
Looking for more things to do this spring in Brisbane? Check out this local’s guide on where to stay, eat, shop and be entertained.
When: Now until 7 October 2024
Soak up the innovation and creative wizardry of acclaimed Dutch fashion designer, Iris van Herpen, right here in Brisbane. Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses is an enthralling exhibition staged inside South Bank’s Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), featuring close to 100 of her most remarkable high-fashion creations alongside artworks and cultural artefacts.
Find out everything to know before you go with our guide to Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses and discover equally intriguing cultural pit stops with our wrap-up of the best arts events in Queensland.
When: 30 August — 21 September 2024
Toast Queensland’s glittering capital at the annual Brisbane Festival, a three-week party that lights up the city in the way of more than 1000 live performances. Shining a string of lights on Brisbane’s cultural roots and celebrating its unique story through music, theatre, dance and other artistic expression, the event is seriously unmissable and caters to every cultural tastebud. And don't miss out on the spectacular launch event, Riverfire.
Read up on the hundreds of performances spanning each genre with our complete guide to this year’s Brisbane Festival or start planning your itinerary with this style lover's guide to a weekend of fashion events in Brisbane.
When: September 2024
If you haven’t heard of Qld Music Trails, a game-changing tourism experience that leads you through the state’s best sights via musical events, it’s time to switch on.
This year’s Brisbane portion of the Trails will combine Brisbane Festival, BIGSOUND 2024 and Sweet Relief! 2024 for Beats of Brisbane, the ultimate month of music this September,
Expect to bring all the boys to the yard with performances by Kelis of “Milkshake” fame, The Presets, Electric Fields and more. Check out our guide to Qld Music Trails 2024 to discover plenty more events to groove to.
When: 14 — 15 September 2024
Fly a kite to the highest height at the Redcliffe KiteFest, a weekend of soaring good times at Clontarf’s Pelican Park in Redcliffe. It’s not just amateurs teaching their kids how to fly with finesse. You’ll spot aerobatic displays, family-friendly entertainment, kids’ activities and workshops, food stalls and more at this much-adored annual outdoor festival.
Check out this guide to a day out at Redcliffe Kitefest.
When: 23 October — 10 November 2024
Making its debut in 2024 after the success of Brisbane Powerhouse’s ongoing Melt festival, Melt Open will showcase the artistic talents of the LGBTQIA+ community. The open-access arts festival will bring Queer artworks, installations and performances to venues right across the city and encourage both emerging and established artists to get in on the fun. Expect ceiling-smashing ideas celebrated in sensational style.
When: From 7 November 2024
Guaranteed to thrill children and parents alike, the immersive Bluey’s World Brisbane will touch down in the city’s newest arts and entertainment precinct, Northshore, for real life. An interactive recreation of Bluey’s home, spanning life-size sets of the Heelers’ living room, kitchen, kids’ bedrooms and backyard, will offer the ultimate memory maker for fans of the hit TV series.
Learn more about what to expect with our comprehensive guide to Bluey’s World Brisbane and for more outstanding boredom-busters, check out our list of the best kid-friendly things to do in Brisbane.
When: 21 — 24 November 2024
Some of the world’s best athletes will journey to Brisbane for the 2024 Australian PGA Championship, one of Australia’s most-famed golfing events. Staged at the Royal Queensland Golf Club, one of the best public golf courses in Queensland, the event will mark the start of the DP World Tour season. If you’re not watching all-stars including reigning champion Min Woo Lee, do their thing, there’s also a Family Zone with kids’ golf courses to get active in.
When: 30 November 2024 — 27 April 2025
A sucker for contemporary art? The 11th Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art (APT11) has your name all over it. Serving as the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA)’s flagship exhibition, various projects will display the work of more than 200 artistic talents. Alongside thought-provoking artworks, a series of live performances, films and robust discussions are designed to ignite fresh thinking and bold creativity.
There’s always something happening in Brisbane – see all events here.