The heart of Brisbane will pulse with Asian culture next month as the BrisAsia Festival brings a packed program of events to Fortitude Valley and the CBD, with the 14th annual celebration marking the Year of the Horse across 10 days in February.
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From improv comedy workshops in the Valley to dance battles in South Brisbane and traditional Japanese music at City Hall, the inner-city precincts will host several key events between 13 and 22 February.
The festival has expanded significantly this year, now featuring more than 350 artists across 17 suburbs with 10 new events added to the program. The Year of the Horse theme, characterised by its energetic and adventurous spirit, runs throughout the festival’s diverse offerings.
Japanese Music Meets Contemporary Innovation
The Lord Mayor’s City Hall Concerts presents Shu Ha Ri at Brisbane City Hall on 17 February from noon to 1pm. The free lunchtime concert explores the intersection between classical Japanese music and contemporary interpretation, with the title itself meaning to bridge between tradition and innovation.
Dance Battles Hit South Brisbane and Queen Street
Dance crews will descend on South Brisbane’s VENTspace for the BrisAsia Dance Battles qualifying rounds on Saturday 21 February from 10am to 7pm. The competition, open to all ages with entry from $20, culminates the following day with free finals at the Queen Street Mall Stage from 4pm to 7pm on Sunday 22 February.
Neo-Soul Night in the Valley
Fortitude Valley’s Mr Vain Restaurant and Bar transforms into the Velvet Lounge on 19 February from 6pm to midnight, hosting an intimate neo-soul and R&B experience featuring Brisbane’s finest Asian DJs.
Comedy Improv Workshops
Big Fork Theatre in Fortitude Valley will host beginner improv workshops on 22 February from 1.30pm to 4.30pm, an expansion of the festival’s new comedy program. The workshops follow the inaugural BrisAsia Comedy Gala, offering participants hands-on experience with improvisational comedy.
The BrisAsia Festival has grown into Brisbane’s largest showcase of Asian culture, cuisine, art and music since its inception. The 2026 program reflects the city’s increasingly diverse cultural landscape, with events designed to appeal across generations and communities.
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Most events throughout the festival are free, making it accessible to Brisbane residents wanting to experience Asian culture. For the full program and booking information for ticketed events, visit the BrisAsia Festival website.
Published 22-January-2026
