Summer in Brisbane is more than just a season – it's a celebration of everything that makes this city so vibrant. From dazzling Christmas markets to soulful live music at Riverstage, festive light displays, and open-air cinemas, Brisbane’s summer events lineup is packed with experiences that bring people together. Whether you’re here for the holiday magic, eager to discover local arts and culture, or just want to relax under the Queensland sun, we’ve rounded up the season’s best. Get ready to make this summer your most memorable yet!

[Cover Photo: Supplied]

Two young people riding a bike together, with the person in front shirtless, displaying various tattoos

British Film Festival
When: 6 Nov - 8 Dec
Where: Palace Cinemas, Barracks & Centro
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Get ready for the 2024 Russell Hobbs British Film Festival, currently now showing at Palace Cinemas. This year’s lineup is packed with gripping dramas, action-filled thrillers, heartfelt comedies, and stirring documentaries. Don’t miss the Australian premiere of Steve McQueen’s Blitz and the festival closer We Live in Time, starring Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield. With a mix of star-studded new releases and British classics, it’s a cinematic celebration not to be missed!

Colorful festival poster with a surreal face illustration, advertising 'Festival', featuring live music, art exhibitions, kids' activities, markets, and all-age tickets starting from $15 on two stages.

Liberti Festival
When: 23 November, 2pm
Where: 175 Macarthur Avenue, Northshore
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Mark your calendar – the Liberti Festival is back, bringing an all-ages extravaganza to Superordinary! Dive into a day filled with live music, captivating art exhibitions, unique market stalls, delicious food vendors, dazzling dance performances, and fun-filled activities for the kids. This is one of the venue’s biggest events of the year, and it's set to be unforgettable!

A group of people admiring a tall, abstract sculpture outdoors under a partly cloudy sky, with trees and city buildings in the background.

FREE Queens Wharf Walking tours
When: Wed, Fri, Sun
Where: George Street entry of The Star
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Discover Brisbane’s newest art and architectural marvel with Museum of Brisbane’s free walking tours of The Star Brisbane and Queen’s Wharf precinct. Launching in November 2024, these 45-minute immersive tours reveal the city’s latest public art installations, including large-scale works by renowned local, First Nations, and international artists. Led by expert guides, explore breathtaking sculptures, alfresco murals, and key heritage sites in Brisbane’s visionary new cultural precinct. A unique way to experience the city’s art and history—don’t miss out!

Festive vendor at a Christmas Twilight Market serving customers from a holiday-themed food truck, decorated with garlands and ornaments, creating a warm and joyful holiday atmosphere.

Christmas in Brisbane
Experience a night out in Brisbane during the festive season. Enjoy live entertainment for all ages, Santa appearances, and an array of mouthwatering street food. Discover unique, artisan market stalls featuring gifts from local makers and where kids and adults alike can revel in Christmas magic with big bubbles, animal encounters, and roving entertainers. Wrap up the night at a pop-up bar, raising a glass to the season. Food, gifts, kids' activities, and festive cheer await! Here is our list of Christmas festivities and Markets to add to your calendar:

Lord Mayor’s Lighting of the Christmas Tree
Friday, 29th November | 6.30PM - 7.30PM | King George Square Brisbane City
FREE | Take public transport or Paid parking in the city

Lord Mayor’s Christmas Carols
Saturday, 7th December | Gates open from 4pm | Riverstage
Tickets HERE

Carseldine Christmas Twilight Markets
Saturday, 23rd November | 4PM – 10PM | 133 Dorville Rd, Carseldine
Entry & Car Parking: $3 at the gate, 12 and under free | Free parking

Milton Christmas Twilight Markets
Saturday, 30th November | 4PM – 10PM | Corner of Cribb & Little Cribb Street, Milton
Entry & Car Parking: $3 Entry, 12 and under free | $2 Parking

West End Christmas Twilight Markets
Friday, 6th December | 4PM – 10PM | Corner of Montague Rd and Jane St
Entry & Car Parking: Free

Nundah Christmas Twilight Markets
Saturday, 7th December | 4PM – 10PM | Station St, Nundah
Entry & Car Parking: $3 at the gate, 12 and under free | Free street parking

BrisStyle Christmas Twilight Markets
When: 22 Nov, 6 Dec, 20 Dec, 4pm-9pm
Where: King George Square Brisbane City
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Celebrate the season at the BrisStyle Christmas Twilight Markets! Held in King George Square on November 22, December 6, and December 20 (4 pm–9 pm), these markets feature local handmade treasures, holiday cheer, and twinkling lights. Support small businesses and find unique artisan gifts crafted with love. From festive vibes to community spirit, it’s the perfect spot to tick off your Christmas list. Don’t miss the magic – see you there!

QAGoMA Christmas Design Market
When: 7 - 8 Dec, 9am - 4pm.
Where: Outside, Gallery of Modern Art
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Discover unique gifts at the QAGOMA Christmas Design Market on 7–8 December, 9am–4pm. With over 90 local artisans showcasing handmade ceramics, jewellery, homewares, textiles, and clothing, this market is the perfect spot to find special presents for everyone on your list. Held at the Gallery of Modern Art Forecourt in South Brisbane, enjoy the festive atmosphere and explore the 11th Asia Pacific Triennial exhibition featuring bold works from artists across 30+ countries. Entry is free!

Southbank Christmas Markets
When: 13 - 22 Dec, 10am - 9pm
Where: Little Stanley Street.
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Stroll through Little Stanley Street as it transforms into a lively festive village adorned with sparkling decorations and vibrant market stalls. Explore an array of unique finds, from handmade jewellery and stylish clothing to one-of-a-kind trinkets and artwork. It’s the ideal spot to pick up thoughtful gifts and last-minute stocking stuffers to complete your holiday shopping!

Santa greeting excited children at sunset during Brookfield's annual Bush Christmas event.

Brookfield Bush Christmas
When: 6 Dec, 4pm - 10pm
Where: Brookfield Showgrounds.
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Celebrate the season at Brookfield’s annual Bush Christmas on Friday, 6 December 2024, from 4–10pm at Brookfield Showground! This free event offers festive fun for the whole family, with live music, market stalls for unique gifts, tasty food, and a bar area. Kids can enjoy free rides and even a special visit from Santa! Gather with friends and family for an evening filled with holiday spirit and community cheer under the stars.

Christmas Putt Putt
When: Now - 2 Jan 2025
Where: Victoria Park
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Celebrate the festive season with a round of Christmas Putt Putt at Victoria Park! From 8 November 2024 to 2 January 2025, the course is transformed into a holiday wonderland with festive lights, bells, and bows. Swing by for a merry adventure and enjoy Altos Tequila slushies, available at the kiosk or through QR codes across the course. Open daily, with extended hours on weekends. Book your tickets early for a tee-riffic holiday experience!

Family walking through illuminated forest path at The Enchanted Garden, Roma Street Parkland.

The Enchanted Garden
When: 22 Nov - 21 Dec
Where: Roma Street Parklands
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Step into a world of festive wonder at The Enchanted Garden at Roma Street Parkland, from 22 November to 21 December 2024. Wander through nearly 1km of twinkling lights, captivating light displays, and magical storytelling, perfect for all ages. With festive food trucks, a licensed bar, and mesmerizing displays, this 30-40 minute journey will immerse you in the holiday spirit. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable Christmas experience in Brisbane. Book your tickets early and enjoy the magic!

Understory
When: 21 Nov - 26 Jan 2025
Where: Southbank Parklands
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South Bank’s immersive light experience, Understory, will now open to the public on 21 November 2024 due to recent weather delays. This world-first installation transforms the Rainforest Walk into a captivating journey with 11 unique stages. Expect magical sights like flames emerging from water, interactive projections, and mythical creatures. Created by FPOV, Understory combines architecture, animation, lighting, and sound to invite visitors of all ages to view nature in a whole new way. Don't miss this wonder-filled spectacle!

Child and Bluey peeking through a colorful door, sharing a playful moment at a family-friendly event. — Image Supplied

Bluey’s World
When: From 7 Nov
Where: Northshore Pavillion, 281 MacArthur Ave, Hamilton
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Bluey’s World is now open! This unique immersive experience brings Bluey’s world to life, letting you step inside the iconic family home, explore the backyard, and beyond. Fans of the beloved TV character can now experience her adventures in a whole new way!

Pink Flamingo’s Christmas Edition
When: 15 Nov - 21 Dec
Where: 98 Bincote St, Hamilton
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Get ready for festive family fun at Pink Flamingo Brisbane’s Circus Fun House – Christmas Edition! This limited-time Christmas extravaganza blends dazzling costumes, jaw-dropping circus acts, daring aerial performances, and acrobatics with a festive twist. Expect cheeky elves, holiday tunes, and a special appearance by Santa himself! Don’t forget to grab your family Santa photos while you’re there. Perfect for kids and adults alike, this joyous event runs for a strictly limited season, so book your tickets now!

Riverstage Concerts
When: Throughout Summer
Where: Riverstage, 59 Gardens Point Brisbane
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This summer, Brisbane’s iconic Riverstage will come alive with unforgettable live performances. Get ready to experience the soulful sounds of Leon Bridges, the captivating melodies of the Teskey Brothers, and electrifying sets from Troye Sivan and Grent Perez. As one of Brisbane’s premier outdoor venues, Riverstage provides the perfect setting for magical concerts under the stars. Don’t miss out—grab your tickets now for a summer of unmissable music moments!