Spring has sprung! Make the most of it and Discover Brisbane with these events.
Just like that it’s Spring time, ready to make that adventurous soul bloom. From stepping into the Brightly Brisbane Festival to celebrating a canvas of colour that is the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers and much more! This is your guide to the best things to do this Spring season.
[Cover Photo: @visitsouthbank]
Celebrate the Brisbane Festival
When: Friday 3 to Saturday 25 September
Where: Various locations across Brisbane
More Info here
Brisbane Festival 2021 is back! The river and iconic city landmarks are our stage as Brisbane create the art that enlivens, delights and disrupts. The curated multi-arts program presents a bold international program transporting our audience beyond the everyday through captivating performances and installations from across the world.
Experience Culture, Cuisine & Carnival!
When: Saturday 16 - Sunday 17 October
Where: Southbank Parklands
More Info here
Experience the second instalment of Regional Flavours, and be transported to a melting pot of cusine, culture and carnival! Global Fiesta from 16 to 17 October will celebrate International food trends and Australia’s rich multicultural DNA.
30 days of flowers and flavours
When: Wednesday 1 to Thursday 30 September
Where: Toowoomba and Queens Park
More Info here
There’s power in petals! The multi-award-winning Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers (TCOF) has unveiled a joy-filled month-long program of celebrations for 2021. Taking centre stage over the new 30-day format will be flowers and local flavours, as the event blooms into a truly region-wide experience for both locals and visitors.
Experience Qld’s Chamber Orchestra
When: Friday 10th & Saturday 18th September
Where: QPAC Concert Hall, & Armitage Theatre (Toowoomba)
More info here
Camerata, Queensland’s Chamber Orchestra joins the Brisbane Festival program with The Conference of the Birds. A beautiful amalgamation of music, illustrations (by The New York Times’ award winning illustrator, Peter Sis) and spoken word. The concert brings to life the epic poem of the same name, and also features Mendelssohn’s Sinfonia in B Minor and Vaughan Williams’ The Lark Ascending, featuring Artistic Director, Brendan Joyce.
When: Tuesdays and Fridays 6pm
Where: 100 Brookes St Fortitude Valley
More info here
Previously voted as one of Brisbane’s best new cafes, Halo Ground have launched Fresh Prints, an urban paint and sip experience where guests will try their artistic talents to paint Hip-Hop and R&B Hip-hop inspired artworks, whilst listening to dope beats from their in-house DJs. As a licenced venue, Halo Ground will be operating their kitchen and bar so be prepared for some amazing signature cocktails along with tasty bites!
When: Wednesday 20th October - Sunday 14th November
Where: Palace James St, and Palace Barracks Cinemas
More info here
Now in its 22nd year, the ST. ALi Italian Film Festival presented by Palace returns to cinema screens this September with the best new Italian films as well as classic gems of Italian cinema. With a focus on contemporary cinema that tells the stories from today’s Italy, plus a selection of classics honouring the country’s filmmaking tradition, this edition features a sensational line-up of much-loved stars and exciting emerging talent.
When: Tuesday 31 August - Sunday 26 September
Where: Portside Wharf
More info here
Entitled “What’s That?” Internationally-renowned Australian artist Amanda Parer brings us Fantastic Planet; giant inflatable luminous white ‘humanoids’ who land at different sites across the globe, with the Brisbane site being Portside Wharf. The five-metre-tall figure will crouch down over the wharf, peering at the onlooker, making for an insta-worthy moment!
Downer Brisbane to Gold Coast Cycle Challenge 2021
When: Sunday 17th October
Where: Commencing at Eleanor Schonell Bridge (Green Bridge) in Brisbane’s Dutton Park | Finish: Southport Broadwater Parklands.
More Info here
Bicycle Queensland is excited to announce the return of its iconic city to coast cycling event – the ‘Downer Brisbane to Gold Coast Cycle Challenge 2021’. On Sunday October 17, Queenslanders of all ages and all riding abilities are invited to grab a bike and join the community for a full day of fun.
See Brisbane from another perspective
When: Fridays & Sundays
Where: Guided tour of Brisbane
More Info here
Grab a group of friends, call a date, or book the kids in and see Brisbane from a brand-new perspective as you explore the city's plethora of public art.
Sculpture by Danger Dave
When: Friday 10 - Sunday 19 September
Where: Outdoors across the Gold Coast
More info here
Come face to face with awe-inspiring sculptures by local, national and international artists at the 19th SWELL Sculpture Festival 10 – 19 September 2021. With a main exhibition held along Currumbin, experience all other exhibits across the Gold Coast at Mudgeeraba, Lower Beechmont, Chevron Island and Helensvale.
Party by the bay at Wynnum Fringe
When: Tuesday 16 - Sunday 21 November
Where: Across venues at Wynnum
More info here
Wynnum Fringe takes everything that is fabulous about a Fringe Festival: the weird and wonderful creative offerings from various artists, the festoon lights lining the trees, the excitement and buzz of new experiences - and packages it into a memorable event which is uniquely Brisbane and uniquely Bayside!
When: Thursday 16 - Saturday 18 September
Where: Queensland Theatre, 78 Montague Road, South Brisbane
More info here
Representing the under represented, the Undercover Artist Festival is here to bend the rules, push artistic boundaries and entertain in a way you didn’t know was possible. Headlining only artists with disabilities, an incredible line-up of bold, daring and unique performers will be joining Undercover Artist Festival from 16 - 18 September at Queensland Theatre as part of Brisbane Festival.
When: Saturday 23rd October
Where: Teneriffe
More info here
Brisbane’s fave street party is back! Celebrate in Teneriffe this October, kick back with a drink from Green Beacon pop-up beer gardens, boogie in the laneway stages and enjoy the best local flavours from the “Taste of Teneriffe”.
Travel to Paris with Baby et Lulu
When: Friday 5 November, 7:30pm
Where: Brisbane, Powerhouse
More info here
While international borders remain closed for the foreseeable future, Brisbane Powerhouse is bringing Paris to Brisbane for one night.Get yourself a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon, close your eyes, and travel to France through the sweet sounds of Baby et Lulu as they seduce your ears with Faux-French music.Abby Dobson (Baby), Lara Goodridge (Lulu) and their extraordinary band will performs songs in French in a celebration of love, life and passion, with their femme fatale glamour and très witty banter.
Celebrate Riverfire at Emporium
When: Saturday 25 September
Where: Emporium Hotels
More info here
Celebrate Brisbane's night of nights at Emporium Hotel South Bank when the sky lights up with Riverfire on Saturday, 25 September. Elevate your night out to new heights at Brisbane's most stunning rooftop bar, The Terrace with a four-hour beverage package including Mumm champagne plus canapes and a Queensland Seafood Selection.
Celebrate Riverfire at Eagle St Pier
When: Saturday 25 September
Where: Eagle St Pier, Various venues
More info here
One of the most electrifying displays in Australia, the firework spectacular will light up the sky from multiple bridges, barges and city rooftops, with Eagle Street Pier the best view in town to experience the entire evening.
George’s Paragon
A mouth-watering, three-course menu is available for $120pp for reservations between 5.15pm to 7.30pm. With the a la carté Half-Price menu available for sittings from 8pm onwards.
Rico Bar & Dining
With beautiful alfresco dining, enjoy a three-course set menu for $120pp for bookings between 5.15pm to 7.30pm. From 8.15pm onwards, the a la carté menu will be available.
The Bavarian
With panoramic views of the Brisbane River & Story Bridge, dine on a special event menu (think haus-made pretzel, chicken schnitzel, pork belly & haus sausages) for $79pp featuring signature Bavarian dishes with a drink on arrival.
Naga Thai
High above the crowds, join Naga Thai for a 7-course shared banquet and 2.5 hour beverage package for $195pp.
COPPA
An Italian feast, join COPPA for a complimentary glass of prosecco on arrival followed by a 3-course menu for $125pp.
Saké Restaurant & Bar
Enjoy Brisbane’s night of nights with a special kuikkubaaito, or quick bite, at Saké Restaurant & Bar. A chef-designed, delightful five-dish menu for $69pp including an accompanying drink.
Mr & Mrs G Riverbar
This exclusive event is your VIP seat to watch the sky light up & celebrate with friends. Enjoy a four hour beverage package for $200pp, including Moet Ice Champagne and delicious cocktails of Belvedere Vodka, Herradura Tequila, Jack Daniels, Hendricks Gin and Sailors Jerry Rum plus a superb selection of boutique wine and beers. Be entertained with Brisbane's premier DJ and Saxophonist and indulge in delicious canapés prepared by the talented Chef's. Along with your ticket to this show stopping event, each guest will also receive a $50 Mr and Mrs G Riverbar Gift Voucher!
See the best pieces of Art from The Met
When: Sunday 12 June - Sunday 17 October
Where: Gallery of Modern Art, South Brisbane QLD 4101
More info here
Visit some of the best pieces of art from The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, without ever leaving Brisbane! With the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) as the exclusive Australian Venue for the major exhibition ‘European Masterpieces from The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York’, you’ll be able to see 500 years of European art, featuring 65 paintings charting Western art history’s most iconic movements and will also include works by Titian, Raphael, Goya, Vermeer, Cézanne and others.
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Watch the best of Japanese Film
When: Thursday 11 November - Sunday 21 November
Where: Palace Barracks, Palace James St Cinemas
More info here
Celebrate the 25th Year of the Japanese Film Festival. From epic fantasies to spine-tingling thrillers and avant-garde features from modern mavericks in contemporary cinema, the Japanese Film Festival (JFF) returns to Brisbane screening at Palace Barracks and Palace James Street from 11 November to 21 November 2021. The 2021 Festival program will screen 21 films from the hottest newly-released feature titles spanning a diverse selection of genres from action to anime, drama, documentaries and much more.
Image supplied.
When: Thursday nights
Where: 59B Gardens Point Rd, Brisbane City.
More info here
Ease into the weekend with Brisbane's newest overwater bar, Will & Flow’s Thursday evening special: Beats and Eats—a night filled with pizzas, cocktails, prosecco and great music. Perfect for an after work drink, the new Will & Flow Beats and Eats specials will feature a range of delicious woodfired pizzas, a special cocktail menu and DJs playing.
Image by @myvalleybne
When: Thursday 28 Oct - Saturday 30 Oct
Where: Various Venues, Fortitude Valley
More info here
150+ artists, 21 venues, across 3 nights. The Valley Fiesta is back! This is all about celebrating our favourite live music venues, each putting on a stacked program of Queensland’s hottest homegrown acts, live on homegrown stages.
Image by @britishfilmfest
Celebrate the best British Films
When: Wednesday 3 Nov - Wednesday 1 Dec
Where: Palace Cinemas, Barracks & Centro (James St)
More info here
Proudly presented by Palace Cinemas, the British Film Festival returns in November for its ninth and best year yet. Thirty one exceptional films from emerging talent and accomplished industry professionals will be showcased on the big screen in seven cities and twenty one cinemas across Australia. With twenty Australian premieres, you won’t want to miss out on this year’s exceptional line-up.
Image Supplied.
Cruise along with Tides of Brisbane
When: Wednesday 3 Nov - February 2022
Where: Boarding from the River Hub at City Botanic Gardens
More info here
What better way to learn about the stories that have shaped our River City while cruising along it. Museum of Brisbane’s Tides of Brisbane Tour Starts from the lush oasis of City Botanic Gardens then takes in the iconic city skyline, meandering past convict-built structures, historic landmarks and incredible feats of engineering before stopping at Sea Legs brewery in the shadow of the Story Bridge, where you can opt to settle in for a leisurely lunch.
Image Supplied
When: Friday 12 November - Sunday 14 November
Where: Brisbane Powerhouse
More info here
Pack the picnic basket and prepare to be entertained when Brisbane Powerhouse presents Spring Sounds at Sunset, three evenings of free live music from 12 – 14 November. Soak up the last rays of spring sunshine as a triple-bill of Brisbane favourites, emerging musicians and First Nations artists ease you into the evening with a mix of jazz, blues, folk and world music across the weekend.
Image Credit: @grande_experiences
Step into the mind of Van Gogh!
When: Friday 29 October - Friday 24 December
Where: 257 Macarthur Avenue, Hamilton
More info here
Presented in over 70+ cities, with over 8.5 million visitors, there’s a reason why Van Gogh Alive is a must try experience. Be prepared for a vibrant symphony of light, colour and sound, combined and amplified to create what visitors are calling “an unforgettable multi-sensory experience”. In an instant, Van Gogh Alive transports visitors to another time and place, immersing them in the artists’ world. Adults and children alike, wander throughout the space, exploring nooks and crannies and engaging with the experience in a manner that transcends traditional installations, set to an evocative classical score.
Image Supplied @hanworthhouse
Sunset Soiree at Hanworth House
When: Sunday 28th November
Where: 10 Hanworth St, East Brisbane
More info here
Back by popular demand, this event is a chance to meet the wine maker and enjoy blind wine tastings while the sun sets at the picturesque Hanworth House. Sample some incredible Winter Reds and Spring Whites and take home your favourites! Enjoy these premium wines with substantial canapés, live music and wine raffles! Bring your partner, friends or family and join for an afternoon of fun, friendship, and most importantly - wine! Over $1000 of luxe wine and gourmet prizes on offer! If you are unable to make it, ensure you secure yourself a raffle ticket as this is an offering not to be missed.
Thursday is the new Friday at Brisbane Quarter
When: Thursdays, from 11 November, 5:30pm
Where: Brisbane Quarter, Podium Level 1
More info here
Featuring a sultry Malfy Gin Pop-up Bar, a DJ spinning chill-out tunes, plus new season dining offers throughout the centre, Brisbane Quarter promises to bring a Mediterranean vibe to Brisbane’s newest and most stylish CBD retail precinct. Brisbane Quarter’s Podium Level One will be transformed with an Italian beach bar ambiance. Take a delicious Malfy Gin cocktail from the cocktail cart, kick back in a comfy white rattan pod chair, sample some tasty bites from Brisbane Quarter restaurants or take a snap for your Insta feed in front of the gorgeous lemon grove wall - all while relaxing to the sounds of summer lounge beats. Kick on for dinner in one of Brisbane Quarter’s chic restaurants Persone, Tenya, Phat Boy, Phoenix or the W Brisbane’s WET Deck, Living Room Bar or Three Blue Ducks, who will be offering special summer-themed dishes and cocktails to really help shift into summer mode.
Ken Done. “Madonna and Dog”. 2000. Acrylic on Canvas.
See the Ken Done exhibit at Redcliffe Art Gallery
When: Saturday 6 November - Saturday 22 January 2022
Where: Redcliffe Art Gallery, 1 Irene St Redcliffe.
More info here
One of Australia’s most iconic artists, Ken Done, has a collection exhibiting at the Redcliffe Art Gallery, “Paintings you probably haven’t seen “. This brings together a collection of previously unseen works selected by Done and the Ken Done Gallery. Immerse yourself in a world of colour and delight with landscapes and interiors that celebrate the vibrancy of Australia. His hyper-coloured paintings have become engrained in this country’s visual vernacular.