picks
✦Dating Disasters
A comedy or cabaret show exploring the humorous and often awkward side of modern dating, presented as part of the Wynnum Fringe festival. Expect an entertaining and relatable performance.
✦The Explainer Series: First Nations Astronomy
Part of 'The Explainer Series', this lecture explores First Nations astronomy, offering insights into Indigenous knowledge systems and their deep understanding of the cosmos. Ideal for curious and open-minded audiences.
✦Brisbane Theosophy Public Lecture
Join Nicky Bassett and Tony Petcopoulos for a public lecture at the Brisbane Theosophical Society, exploring profound ideas about consciousness, cosmic law, and universal brotherhood. The society is a community hub for insightful discussions.
✦ASPG-Q: AI in Parliament – Risks, Opportunities and What's Next?
This event, hosted by ASPG-Q, features a panel discussion on Artificial Intelligence in Parliament, exploring its risks, opportunities, and future implications. It's highly relevant for those interested in technology, governance, and systems thinking.
✦Lifeline Brisbane Bookfest
The final days of Brisbane's massive Lifeline Bookfest, offering a treasure hunt for book lovers with a vast selection of fiction, non-fiction, comics, and media, plus chill-out spaces and a game zone.
✦Build with AI 4.0 — GDG Brisbane
A hands-on tech event organised by Google Developer Group Brisbane, focusing on building with AI tools and attracting curious developers, designers, and technologists.
✦Palace Cinemas — HSBC Spanish & Latin American Film Festival
The 29th HSBC Spanish & Latin American Film Festival presents a carefully selected lineup of over thirty art-house films from Spain, Colombia, Argentina, and more, offering an alternative to mainstream cinema.
✦Echoes from the Cave — Poetry Open Mic
A recurring poetry open mic night held on the first Tuesday of the month at The Cave Inn, providing a natural gathering spot for creative and literary-minded individuals to share and discover spoken word.
✦BSides Brisbane 2026
Queensland's community-driven hacker conference, focusing on workshop-style presentations, hands-on sessions, and genuine connections in an inclusive environment.
all events
UQ Alumni Breakfast: Tax Time Tips
A casual, free breakfast meetup for UQ alumni in Brisbane CBD, featuring a short session on tax return tips, designed for conversation and connection.
Volunteer Guided Tour Olafur Eliasson – Presence
Join a volunteer guide for an insightful tour of the Olafur Eliasson: Presence exhibition, gaining deeper understanding of the artworks and the artist's concepts. Offers opportunities for discussion and learning in a small group.
Olafur Eliasson: Presence — GOMA Exhibition
This major exhibition at GOMA showcases the immersive and sensory work of internationally renowned artist Olafur Eliasson. Experience a multi-sensory journey through his three-decade career, including interactive installations like Riverbed and a communal Lego city.
Dearly Departed — Free Exhibition, State Library of Queensland
This fascinating free exhibition at the State Library of Queensland delves into the often-taboo subjects of death and dying. Discover historical perspectives and cultural interpretations through various displays.
Brisbane Breakfast Club — New Farm
The Brisbane Breakfast Club invites people of all ages to a casual breakfast meetup at Savour Cafe in New Farm. Enjoy consistent quality food and coffee in a bright space while connecting with new people in a friendly, community-oriented setting.
Vintage Urban Photography Session
Join a relaxed urban photography walk, starting at King George Square, to capture Brisbane's urban character with a nostalgic vintage aesthetic. This casual and creative meetup welcomes all skill levels, whether you shoot film, digital, or mobile.
Maleny Artisan Winter Creative Markets and Workshops
Head to the scenic Sunshine Coast Hinterland for community-focused creative markets and hands-on workshops in Maleny. This event offers a chance to explore artisan crafts and participate in various creative activities, ideal for a day trip.
IMA: Platform 2026 — Dean Ansell, Spencer Harvie & Seren Wagstaff
An annual exhibition at the IMA showcasing ambitious new works by three Queensland emerging artists, Dean Ansell, Spencer Harvie, and Seren Wagstaff, exploring themes of cultural heritage, material processes, and contemporary subcultures.
IMA: Platform 2026 — Artist Talks
The three emerging artists featured in the IMA's Platform 2026 exhibition — Dean Ansell, Spencer Harvie, and Seren Wagstaff — will speak about their ambitious new works and creative processes.
Olafur Eliasson: Presence
A major international exhibition by Icelandic-Danish artist Olafur Eliasson at QAGOMA, inviting visitors into an expansive, immersive experience through large-scale environments.
Brisbane Improv Festival 2026 — Backstory Factory Workshop
A hands-on improv and creative storytelling workshop, part of the Brisbane Improv Festival, designed to help participants build narratives and connect with other curious, creative individuals.
Palace Cinemas — Classic & Cult Cinema Weekly Screening
A curated weekly screening series of hand-picked classic and cult films, presented with a complimentary cocktail or mocktail, perfect for cinephiles seeking repertory cinema.
Black Bear Lodge — Live Music & DJs
Black Bear Lodge, a stylish candlelit venue, hosts live performances from local and international acts, alongside regular vinyl DJ sets, offering an intimate atmosphere for music lovers.
Captain Snips Collage Creations
A monthly creative collage workshop hosted by Captain Snips at Lost Souls/Netherworld, offering a hands-on opportunity for artistic expression and social interaction.
"Dearly Departed" Exhibition
A free exhibition at the State Library of Queensland exploring the often-taboo subjects of death and dying, offering a fascinating look at historical and cultural perspectives.
"Through Mununjali Eyes" — Wayne Coolwell Exhibition
A free exhibition at the State Library of Queensland celebrating trailblazing broadcaster Wayne Coolwell and offering insights "Through Mununjali Eyes," focusing on Indigenous culture and history.
Lugger Bort: Research Reveals with Nerelle Nicol
Monica Clare Fellow Nerelle Nicol shares new community stories on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander working life in northern Queensland's pearling and fishing industries, highlighting injustices faced by workers during NAIDOC Week. Includes a Black Gloves Experience.
World Press Photo Exhibition 2026
A powerful and thought-provoking exhibition showcasing the world's best photojournalism, returning to the Brisbane Powerhouse.
QSO: Ravel & MacMillan
An evening of musical colour, rhythm, and emotion with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra, featuring Ravel's sweeping ballet score *Daphnis and Chloé* and James MacMillan's First Percussion Concerto.
Inala Multicultural Festival
A vibrant community festival celebrating the diverse cultures of Inala through food, performances, and activities. This inclusive and free event is designed to bring people together and experience different traditions in a social setting.
Jenny Wynter's Wonderland
An intimate comedy performance by Jenny Wynter, likely part of the Wynnum Fringe festival, offering unique and engaging stand-up or theatrical comedy with artistic value.
Leila Josefowicz & John Novacek
A classical music performance featuring renowned violinist Leila Josefowicz and pianist John Novacek. Expect innovative interpretations and a compelling stage presence, offering a high-art concert experience.
360 ALLSTARS
A high-energy urban circus showcasing world champion athletes and artists in disciplines like breakdancing, BMX, basketball freestyle, and drumming. This non-stop show blends street culture with incredible artistry.
The Rocketman in Concert
A live concert paying tribute to the iconic music of Elton John, featuring a full band and orchestral arrangements. Expect a high-energy performance celebrating classic hits.
Morning Art Riser for Olafur Eliasson: Presence
Enjoy early morning access to the Olafur Eliasson: Presence exhibition before public opening hours, offering a more intimate viewing experience of the immersive artworks. Ideal for those who prefer smaller crowds and quiet contemplation.
Behind the Scenes Talk Presence
A talk offering an in-depth look at the making and conceptualisation of the Olafur Eliasson: Presence exhibition, often featuring curators or experts involved in the installation. Perfect for those interested in the artistic and technical aspects of large-scale art.
First Nations Art Tours
Explore Indigenous Australian art at GOMA with an expert guide, learning about the stories, artists, and cultural significance behind the works. Offers a thoughtful and enriching cultural experience.
Artist in Residence: Martin Edge
Witness artist Martin Edge at work in his studio residency, observing his creative process and potentially engaging in informal discussions about his art. Offers a unique insight into contemporary art practice.
Artist in Residence: Renee Kire
Observe Renee Kire during her artist residency, gaining insight into her artistic methods and themes. This offers a chance to see art being created and potentially interact with the artist.
Free guided tours - Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha
Join a volunteer guide for an informative walk through the Brisbane Botanic Gardens, learning about the diverse plant collections and their history. A grounding outdoor experience with social interaction and knowledge sharing.
Camellias in Focus
An event dedicated to camellias, likely featuring displays, expert talks, and perhaps plants for sale or demonstrations on care. A great opportunity for gardening enthusiasts to learn and connect.
Voyages to the Underworld: UQ Centre for Western Civilisation 2026 Winter School
An intensive winter school exploring themes related to "the underworld" through the lens of Western Civilisation, offering lectures, discussions, and potentially workshops. This program provides deep intellectual engagement on historical and philosophical topics, including accommodation.
136th Royal Queensland Art Society's Members Annual Art Exhibition
The Royal Queensland Art Society's annual exhibition showcasing diverse talent and creativity from its members across various art forms at the Petrie Terrace Gallery.
SUPERWOG - BIG DADDY ENERGY TOUR
A live performance from the popular comedy act Superwog on their 'Big Daddy Energy Tour', presented at The Princess Theatre.
Beginners & Improvers Line Dancing Class
A regular line dancing class for all skill levels, providing social fitness and dance instruction in an authentic local club setting, perfect for movement and community engagement.
Ultimate Brisbane Walking Tour – History, Laneways, Art & More
A guided walking tour exploring Brisbane's CBD history, public art, and hidden laneway culture. Attracts urban explorers and history enthusiasts, offering intellectual insight and social interaction.
360 ALLSTARS — World Tour 2026
This phenomenal physical performance at QPAC explores all forms of rotation, connecting street culture with elite artistry through a cast of World Champion and World Record holding artists, accompanied by a live soundtrack. Expect a spectacular fusion of dance, music, and performance art.
PRAMKICKER — MO Theatre at QPAC
MO Theatre presents the international hit play PRAMKICKER by Sadie Hasler at QPAC. This production is described as a vulnerable and raw love-letter to the modern woman, offering contemporary theatrical insight.
Divine Connections: Oleographs from Bengaluru — QAGOMA Free Exhibition
Explore the interplay of faith, visual culture, and daily life through stunning and rare oleographs from the late 1800s, showcased in this free exhibition at QAGOMA. Created in collaboration with conservationists from Bengaluru, India.
Bonfire Night — Warwick / Stanthorpe Area
Experience an extraordinary outdoor winter night event in the Granite Belt region, featuring sensational bonfires, mesmerizing flame shows, dazzling pyrotechnics, and captivating fire twirlers. Perfect for a social and adventurous day trip from Brisbane.
Resin River Art Workshop
Engage in a hands-on creative art workshop in Brisbane City where you'll pour and craft your own resin art piece on a large platter. This event encourages a social and creative evening, allowing BYO drinks and snacks.
From the Jam — "The Greatest Hits Tour"
A live performance by post-punk/mod revival act From the Jam, playing hits from The Jam's iconic catalogue at The Triffid.
Triffid Sundays — Holy Smokes & Friends
A recurring Sunday afternoon live music series featuring Holy Smokes & Friends in The Triffid's beer garden, offering an intimate and social setting for local and emerging acts.
Mumbles the Dopes @ Ventspace
Mumbles the Dopes perform at Ventspace, an intimate outdoor/alternative venue in South Brisbane known for its indie and alternative music programming.
Open Season — Winter Music Festival
Brisbane's cultural program, Open Season, continues its sixth edition, featuring over 100 artists including jazz, hip-hop, R&B, and post-rock acts across iconic venues like The Tivoli and Princess Theatre.
Palace Cinemas — Marilyn Monroe 100th Birthday Film Program
A thoughtfully curated film program celebrating Marilyn Monroe's 100th birthday, showcasing ten of her most memorable performances for classic film fans.
Picasso Prints Exhibition
An exhibition at the Queensland Art Gallery revealing Picasso's first experiments in printmaking, showcasing the young artist's transition and early creative explorations.
Aboriginal Art & Symbols Workshop (NAIDOC Week)
A hands-on workshop to explore Aboriginal art and symbols using natural elements for painting and storytelling, complemented by didgeridoo sounds for healing and dance, presented by Nikita and Caleb during NAIDOC Week.
Balmoral Art Month - Photography competition
A photography competition held as part of Balmoral Art Month, inviting participants to capture creative images. The event fosters local artistic talent and involves the hands-on process of creating photographic works.
Pinky McFluff's Amazingly Awesome And Actually Astounding Comedy Hour(ish)!
A comedic performance as part of the Wynnum Fringe, featuring Pinky McFluff in an engaging and amusing stand-up or theatrical show, promising creative entertainment.
360 ALLSTARS
A high-octane urban circus show featuring world champions and record holders in various street art forms including BMX, basketball, breakdancing, and drumming. This experimental performance offers a unique and energetic artistic experience.
Shady Nasty
A live music performance by the band Shady Nasty, likely an indie music gig, known for their unique sound and engaging live atmosphere, offering artistic value.
São JoAU - 2026
A community event celebrating São João, a traditional Brazilian festival, likely featuring music, dancing, food, and cultural activities. This event fosters a vibrant social atmosphere and cultural exchange.
Al Jardine and The Pet Sounds Band
Join Al Jardine, a founding member of The Beach Boys, and his Pet Sounds Band for an evening of classic hits and timeless music. Expect a nostalgic and high-quality live performance.
Yaggara Kakka Brisbane NAIDOC 2026
Celebrate NAIDOC Week at this significant community event, featuring First Nations cultural performances, stalls, workshops, and educational activities. A chance to engage with Indigenous culture and history.
groundwork: 50 years of art, artists, education and community
An exhibition celebrating 50 years of art, artists, and community engagement at the UQ Art Museum, showcasing a rich history of artistic and educational contributions. Offers a deep dive into local art history and institutional impact.
Spiderbait (AUS) with Custard & The Gnomes
Iconic Australian indie-rock band Spiderbait performs live with support from Custard and The Gnomes. Expect a night of high-energy rock and nostalgic hits from these beloved acts.
Cradle of Filth + DevilDriver (UK/USA)
A heavy metal double-header featuring UK black metal legends Cradle of Filth and US groove metal band DevilDriver. Appeals to authentic subcultures and offers a powerful live music experience.
RQAS Life Drawing Sessions
A hands-on life drawing workshop run by the Royal Queensland Art Society, offering an opportunity for artists to practice and develop their drawing skills in a studio setting.
Mt Coot-tha Monday night training walk
A recurring Monday night training walk around Mt Coot-tha, hosted by Brisbane Bushwalkers, offering a social and active outdoor experience for various fitness levels.
Creative Generation – State Schools Onstage 2026
A large-scale performing arts showcase highlighting Queensland state school students in music, dance, and theatre, offering a professional stage experience with strong artistic value.
Rusalka — Opera Queensland
Opera Queensland presents the breathtaking opera Rusalka at QPAC. This shimmering fairytale explores themes of love, sacrifice, and longing through a classic operatic narrative.
Australian Brandenburg Orchestra — Italian Serenatas
The Australian Brandenburg Orchestra returns to QPAC with 'Italian Serenatas,' a vibrant celebration of Baroque Italy. Embark on a dramatic musical journey through classical compositions, beginning July 2nd.
Denis Sulta @ The Prince Consort Hotel
Scottish electronic/techno DJ Denis Sulta brings his dynamic and textured sets to The Prince Consort Hotel for a credible underground electronic music night.
State Library Curator's Tours
Join volunteer guides for a free tour of the State Library of Queensland's award-winning building, learning about its spaces, collections, services, and current exhibitions, customisable to interests.
The Gesualdo Six – Wishing Tree
Experience a captivating evening of contemporary and renaissance vocal music performed by the renowned British a cappella ensemble, The Gesualdo Six, as part of Musica Viva Australia's season. Expect intricate harmonies and a strong artistic atmosphere.
Free guided tours - City Botanic Gardens
Explore the historical City Botanic Gardens with a knowledgeable volunteer guide, discovering its significant trees, collections, and stories. A relaxed social outing in nature, perfect for learning and conversation.
Shady Nasty (AUS) with blue diner. & Koady
Catch an intimate gig featuring Australian indie artists Shady Nasty, supported by blue diner. and Koady, known for their unique sounds and energetic live performances. A chance to discover new music in a vibrant setting.
Ballet Theatre Queensland: Snow White
Ballet Theatre Queensland presents a full-length production of Snow White at QPAC, featuring emerging local dancers in a family-friendly performance with strong artistic value.
Ravel & MacMillan – QSO World Tour 2026
The Queensland Symphony Orchestra performs classical and contemporary works by Ravel and James MacMillan as part of its World Tour, offering a live experience with strong artistic value.
All Abilities Monthly Disco
An inclusive and authentic community disco night for people of all abilities, offering music, dancing, and socialising in a local neighbourhood centre.
Beetlejuice The Musical — QPAC
Based on the Tim Burton film, Beetlejuice The Musical tells the story of Lydia Deetz, a strange teenager who encounters a deceased couple and a mischievous demon. Catch this lively musical for a limited season at QPAC's Lyric Theatre.
Sister Act — Savoyards Musical Theatre Brisbane
Savoyards Musical Theatre Brisbane proudly presents the Queensland Community Theatre premiere of Sister Act. This high-energy musical promises a fabulous and entertaining show.
BIYMF 2026 Winners Concert and Award Ceremony
Brisbane City Hall hosts the BIYMF 2026 Winners Concert and Award Ceremony, showcasing top young musicians from the Brisbane International Youth Music Festival. Enjoy live performances by emerging talent.
FEID (Ferxxo) — Falxo Tour: El Mano a Mano
A major Latin urban music event featuring FEID (Ferxxo) and Falxo Tour: El Mano a Mano, performing at Brisbane's largest dedicated music hall.
Open Season — Live Music Program
Brisbane's defining winter cultural program, Open Season, presents over 100 local, national, and international artists in immersive, surprising, and gritty cross-disciplinary performances across multiple venues.
PRAMKICKER by Sadie Hasler
A contemporary theatre production by Sadie Hasler, known for its insightful and often humorous exploration of human behavior and societal issues. Expect a thought-provoking and intimate theatrical experience.
Carl Donnelly | Another Round (Comedy)
Stand-up comedy performance by Carl Donnelly at the intimate Good Chat Comedy Club, offering a chance to see a popular comedian in a local venue.