Ekka Returns, Candlelight Classics, and Craft Beer Festivities
With clear skies on the forecast and a packed lineup of events across the city, there is no shortage of ways to fill your weekend in Brisbane. Whether you’re looking for iconic Queenslander traditions, atmospheric live music, or delicious food and drink, here are the top highlights happening around town this Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
- The 150th Ekka Kicks Off at Brisbane Showgrounds
When: Saturday, August 8 – Sunday, August 16
Where: Brisbane Showgrounds, Bowen Hills
Queensland’s most iconic event is back. The Royal Queensland Show (the Ekka) opens its gates this Saturday.
Expect classic agricultural displays, woodchopping competitions, carnival rides, and a massive lineup of show bags. Foodies can look forward to live cooking demonstrations and, of course, the legendary Ekka Strawberry Sundae.
- Tip for Newbies: Pre-order your strawberry sundaes online to skip the lines and support the Prince Charles Hospital Foundation, which benefits from the sales.
- Candlelight: The World of Joe Hisaishi
When: Friday, August 7, 6:30 PM
Where: St John’s Cathedral, Brisbane City
Anime and soundtrack lovers are in for a special night this Friday. St John’s Cathedral will be illuminated by thousands of candles as a string quartet performs the iconic music of Studio Ghibli composer Joe Hisaishi. Hear live arrangements from classics like Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle, and My Neighbor Totoro in one of the city’s most impressive architectural structures.
- West Fest at Working Title Brew Co
When: From 12:00 PM, Saturday, August 8
Where: Working Title Brew Co, Newstead
If you’re in the mood for local craft brews and country vibes, head over to Newstead on Saturday. Working Title Brew Co is hosting West Fest, featuring ten West Coast-inspired beers on tap, hearty pub specials like Lao Gan Ma mac and cheese, and exhibitions from local artists. Bookings available here.
- Explore First Nations Culture at Clancestry: Barragga Yanga
When: Friday, August 7, 7:00 PM
Where: Playhouse, QPAC, South Bank
As part of QPAC’s annual Clancestry celebration of First Nations performance, Barragga Yanga (“many songs” in Dhurga language) brings together the Yuin choir Djinama Yilaga with a string quartet from Camerata. It promises an uplifting and moving evening of vocal and instrumental harmony. Find tickets here.
- Bulimba Community Markets
When: Sunday, August 9, 8AM-2PM
Where: Bulimba Community Centre, Bulimba Memorial Park
It’s the second Sunday of the month at the Bulimba Community Centre and Memorial Park, and that means it’s time for one of Brisbane’s most loved local markets.
With a relaxed riverside vibe, plenty of delicious food, and stalls to browse, it’s the perfect Sunday morning outing. Free entry & dog friendly. Bring the whole family (including your four-legged mates)! Come for breakfast, stay for the atmosphere, and support local at the Bulimba Community Markets.
- Top Dog Film Festival: The Ultimate Cinematic Celebration of Dogs.
When: Sunday, August 9, 2PM – 4:45PM
Where: New Farm Cinemas
Get ready to celebrate man’s best friend on the big screen. The Top Dog Film Festival returns with a two-hour cinematic journey featuring the best short films from independent global creators.
Low-Key & Free Local Ideas:
Here’s even more ideas for evert age and budget:
- Explore Roma Street Parkland: Join a free guided walk or stroll through the manicured gardens in the heart of the city. Book here.
- Riverwalk Stretch: Walk or cycle the floating Brisbane Riverwalk from New Farm to Howard Smith Wharves for great city skyline views. Or, if you don’t mind making a splash, try a jetski or GoBoat – no boat licence required.
- Explore MoB (Museum of Brisbane): Drop into City Hall to check out their current free community exhibitions, including The Red Dress global art project and the Lord Mayor’s Photographic Awards.
