All the Brisbane events that can’t be missed | AWW

Every September, Brisbane comes to life with art, music and culture with the annual Brisbane Festival. The festival is a month-long celebration that is a great way to get a taste of the city’s vibrant arts and culture scene. From theatre, dance, music to art displays, the Brisbane Festival performances are known for being zany, eclectic and boundary-pushing. One of the highlights of the Brisbane Festival is Riverfire, a firework display that is set off from Brisbane’s bridges, barges and city rooftops to officially kick off the festival.

The Ekka is Queensland’s biggest annual event that’s been around for over a century. Held every August at the Brisbane Showgrounds, this iconic event is bursting with carnival rides, street food and loads of entertainment. Not only this, but the Ekka is also a showcase of Queensland’s proud agricultural heritage with livestock competitions and produce displays. The real star of the show is the famous Ekka strawberry sundae – a dessert that’s as famous as the event itself.

Consider yourself a cinephile? The Brisbane International Film Festival (BIFF) is one of the highlights of Brisbane’s bustling event calendar. Held every October, BIFF features everything from Hollywood blockbusters to avant garde short films. But it’s not just movies, the festival is also packed with tonnes of Q&A sessions, panel discussions and other film events . It’s the perfect opportunity to explore new cinematic perspectives and discover films you won’t find anywhere else.

Riverfire is the spectacular opening event of the Brisbane Festival. Taking place every September, the city lights up with a show-stopping fireworks display from Brisbane’s bridges, barges and city rooftops. South Bank is the prime spot to catch the best views of the fireworks, but no matter where you watch from in the city, you’ll be sure to get a decent glimpse as the night sky is illuminated.

If you love to have a laugh and an excuse to have a night out, then the Brisbane Comedy Festival delivers in spades. Taking place from February to March every year, the festival rounds up some of the best comedians in Australia and across the globe for a month of non-stop laughs. Whether you’re after stand-up, sketch or improv, you’ll be spoiled for choice with dozens of shows taking place across the city.

Foodies, mark your calendars for the Brisbane Good Food & Wine Show that takes place every October. Held over one weekend at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, you’ll get the chance to taste gourmet foods, sample local wines and discover the flavours of Queensland’s best produce. Whether you love to indulge your taste buds or get into the kitchen and whip up a dish, from food demonstrations to degustations, there’s something for every foodie here.