Events Worth Travelling to Brisbane for in 2026
If you’re considering a trip and wondering about the best things to do in Brisbane in 2026, the city’s events calendar offers plenty of reasons to start planning. From major sporting fixtures and cultural festivals to live shows and outdoor concerts, Brisbane continues to deliver memorable experiences for visitors year after year.
Paired with warm weather and an easygoing riverside lifestyle, these events make Brisbane an appealing destination for couples, families and groups looking to turn a single event into a relaxed city break.
Why Brisbane Is a Top Travel Destination in 2026
Brisbane strikes a balance that’s hard to beat. It hosts major events without the congestion of larger cities, making it easy to enjoy sport, festivals and entertainment at a comfortable pace. Add a strong dining scene and riverfront spaces, and it’s easy to see why Brisbane continues to attract visitors from across Australia.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Brisbane?
May to September is a popular time to visit Brisbane, with mild temperatures and many of the city’s biggest annual events taking place. Summer also has its appeal, with tennis, cricket and outdoor concerts making the most of warm evenings and longer days.
Events Worth Travelling to Brisbane for
Major Sporting Events
Sport is a major driver of travel to Brisbane, and 2026 brings a strong calendar of fixtures across multiple codes.
NRL Magic Round (14–17 May 2026)
Held at Suncorp Stadium, Magic Round brings every NRL team to Brisbane for one action-packed weekend of rugby league. With live music and entertainment for all ages, this exciting Brisbane football event creates a lively atmosphere across the city. Get your tickets here.
Brisbane Marathon Festival (7 June 2026)
The Brisbane Marathon Festival is one of Queensland's premier running events, with a scenic course through the Brisbane CBD and along the Brisbane River.
Offering five race distances - from the 42.2km Brisbane Marathon to the 2km family fun run - it caters to all fitness levels. Starting on Margaret Street and finishing at the City Botanic Gardens, it’s an unforgettable way to experience the city.
State of Origin (8 July 2026)
A State of Origin clash at Suncorp Stadium is one of Brisbane’s most anticipated sporting events, drawing huge crowds and an electric atmosphere.
This year, Brisbane hosts Game 3 - the finale of the iconic NSW Blues vs QLD Maroons rugby league series. Kick-off is at 8:10pm, get your tickets to experience the action live.
AFL Season at The Gabba (7 March - 10 August 2026)
The Brisbane Lions return to The Gabba for another exciting AFL season, with 11 home games scheduled in Brisbane. Located 10 minutes’ drive from the CBD, The Gabba offers one of Queensland’s premier live sport experiences.
The season opens against the Western Bulldogs on 7 March, with key match ups against Collingwood on 7 April and Carlton on 8 May. The Lions close out their Brisbane home fixtures against the Gold Coast Suns on 10 August. Don’t miss the chance to see the reigning AFL premiers live at The Gabba.
Wallabies vs France Rugby Test (11 July 2026)
As the countdown to the 2027 Rugby World Cup builds, Brisbane will host one of the biggest rugby events of 2026 when the Wallabies face France in a Nations Championship Test on Saturday 11 July 2026. Expect an electric atmosphere at Suncorp Stadium - just 10 minutes from the Brisbane CBD.
Secure your tickets via Suncorp Stadium now.
Cricket in Brisbane (November 2026 – January 2027)
Brisbane’s summer cricket season runs from November 2026 to January 2027, with The Gabba hosting an exciting mix of Test matches, One Day Internationals, T20 internationals and Big Bash League fixtures. The Gabba traditionally stages one of Australia’s early summer Tests, showcasing fast, pace-friendly conditions, while white-ball internationals bring high-energy day and night matches to the city.
The local BBL team, Brisbane Heat will also return for multiple home games throughout December and January, creating a lively summer atmosphere. Plan your Brisbane cricket experience and get tickets via The Gabba website.
Brisbane International Tennis Tournament (January 2027)
Held in early January, the Brisbane International is one of the city’s premier summer sporting events and a key lead-in tournament to the Australian Open. Staged at the Queensland Tennis Centre, the event attracts top-ranked international players competing in men’s and women’s draws, offering fans the chance to see world-class tennis in an intimate setting.
With warm summer evenings, centre court atmosphere and strong local support, the Brisbane International combines elite sport with a vibrant festival feel, making it a standout fixture on Brisbane’s January events calendar.
Food and Cultural Festivals
Brisbane’s food and arts scene come alive throughout the year, offering visitors even more things to do in Brisbane beyond sport, from street festivals to family-friendly celebrations.
Paniyiri Greek Festival (23 - 24 May 2026)
Australia’s largest Greek cultural festival returns to Musgrave Park on 23 - 24 May 2026, celebrating its 50th year in Brisbane. Paniyiri Festival is a vibrant weekend of traditional Greek food, live music, cultural performances and family-friendly activities. The festival transforms South Brisbane into a lively Mediterranean celebration, and is an easy 20 minutes’ walk from the centre of Brisbane.
Night Feast (29 July – 23 August 2026)
From 29 July - 23 August Brisbane Powerhouse hosts Night Feast, transforming the riverside precinct into a month-long celebration of food, art and live performance. This immersive culinary event brings together Brisbane’s top chefs, each creating exclusive dishes and limited-edition menus.
Set against large-scale light installations, contemporary art and live music, Night Feast delivers a vibrant evening experience that blends dining with culture. Brisbane Powerhouse is located in New Farm, around a 15-minute drive from the Brisbane CBD, or arrive in style via CityCat ferry along the Brisbane River to New Farm Park, just a short walk away.
Ekka – Royal Queensland Show (8–16 August 2026)
Queensland’s largest and most iconic annual event, the Ekka is a celebration of agriculture, community and entertainment held each August at the Brisbane Showgrounds. Officially known as the Royal Queensland Show, the Ekka showcases livestock competitions, equestrian events, woodchopping, and award-winning food and wine from across the state.
Alongside its strong agricultural heritage, the Ekka is famous for carnival rides, nightly fireworks, and their much-loved showbags. With dedicated kids’ areas, animal nurseries and interactive displays, it remains a long-standing Brisbane favourite for all ages, and a true highlight of the city’s events calendar.
Brisbane Festival (4–26 September 2026)
Brisbane Festival returns from 4 - 26 September 2026, bringing a city-wide celebration of arts and culture to venues including QPAC, Brisbane Powerhouse, South Bank, Riverstage and outdoor locations across the CBD. The program features theatre productions, contemporary dance, live music and large-scale public art installations.
The festival opens with Riverfire, an iconic fireworks display across the Brisbane skyline, drawing crowds to South Bank, Kangaroo Point Cliffs and along the Brisbane River.
Live Shows, Musicals and Concerts
Live shows and concerts are a big part of what’s on in Brisbane, with touring productions and headline acts appearing across the city throughout the year.
MJ the Musical (from 27 March 2026, QPAC)
MJ the Musical lands at QPAC from 27 March 2026, bringing the story and music of Michael Jackson to Brisbane’s stage. The production blends theatrical storytelling with iconic hits including Billie Jean, Thriller and Man in the Mirror.
Performed at QPAC’s Lyric Theatre in South Bank, this Brisbane theatre event combines high-energy choreography, live vocals and spectacular staging. Arrive early to enjoy riverside dining in the South Bank cultural precinct before the show.
Brisbane Comedy Festival (10 April - 24 May)
The Brisbane Comedy Festival runs from 10 April to 24 May, delivering weeks of stand-up, sketch and live comedy across the city. The program features a mix of international headliners, Australian favourites and rising local talent.
Key venues include Brisbane Powerhouse, The Fortitude Music Hall and The Tivoli, with shows ranging from large gala performances to intimate late-night sets. Popular acts often sell out, so booking early is recommended.
The Book of Mormon (from 31 July 2026, QPAC)
The Book of Mormon arrives at QPAC from 31 July 2026 for a limited Brisbane season. This internationally acclaimed Broadway musical is celebrated for its sharp satire, bold humour and Tony Award-winning score.
Staged at the Lyric Theatre in Brisbane’s South Bank, the production follows two young missionaries on an unexpected journey, blending irreverent comedy with standout musical numbers and high-production staging. View performance dates and ticket information via the QPAC website.
Where to Stay When Attending Brisbane Events
Staying centrally makes attending Brisbane events far easier, with quick access to stadiums, theatres, dining precincts and public transport.
Hotel Grand Chancellor Brisbane offers comfortable accommodation within reach of major event venues, making it a practical base for travellers visiting the city for sport, festivals or live entertainment. With a range of room types, including suites and family-friendly options, it’s easy to find a setup that suits your stay.
More to see and do around Brisbane
Beyond the events calendar, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your time in Brisbane. Wander South Bank Parklands and cool off at Streets Beach, the free white-sand lagoon that’s popular with families. Younger visitors will love Bluey’s World, bringing the much-loved show to life until November 2026.
Explore the Brisbane River by ferry or cruise, enjoy dining at Howard Smith Wharves, or take in city views from Mount Coot-tha Lookout. Wildlife lovers can visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, home to over 100 koalas and native Australian species.
For shopping, Queen Street Mall offers well-known brands, while James Street is the go-to for upmarket boutique stores and dining.
Start Planning Your Trip Today
From major sporting weekends to cultural festivals and headline shows, Brisbane’s 2026 events calendar offers plenty of reasons to plan a visit.
Whether you’re travelling with friends, family or as a couple, these events highlight why Brisbane remains one of Australia’s most appealing cities to explore. Planning ahead will help you secure accommodation and make the most of what’s on in Brisbane in 2026.