Brisbane events Archives - Fortitude Valley News

Sono Lumo Festival Set to Illuminate Brisbane CBD

Photo Credit: The Star Brisbane/Facebook

Sono Lumo is returning to Brisbane CBD as a free ten-day light and sound festival transforming Queen’s Wharf into an immersive Christmas experience.

Background of the Brisbane CBD Event

Sono Lumo will return to Queen’s Wharf for a ten-day season from 10–14 December and 17–21 December 2025. The festival was previously staged at the same riverfront location and will once again operate as a free public event with food and beverages available for purchase.

The program will cover several precinct spaces, including Queen’s Wharf Plaza and The Landing along the riverfront.

Steampunk Theme and Main Features in Brisbane CBD

The 2025 edition features a steampunk-inspired setting centred on a mechanical timepiece driving the event’s Christmas story. The theme draws from Victorian-era invention blended with futuristic design across the precinct’s lighting and soundscape.

Three main eight-minute shows will take place each night at 7:15 p.m., 8:15 p.m. and 9:15 p.m. The Star Brisbane facade will carry projections, fireworks, snow effects and animated visuals. Brisbane musician Tom Thum created the original soundtrack for the shows and will perform live on opening night on 10 December.

DJs will remix classic carols into electro-swing sets at 6 p.m., 7:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Visitors will be able to walk through installations across George Street Steps, Queen’s Wharf Plaza and The Landing, with lighting, laser effects and projected scenes.

Queen’s Wharf Brisbane — *Photo Credit: The Star Brisbane/Facebook*

Feature Zones and Visitor Experience

The Festive Foundry in the DPI courtyard will be marked by a large airship balloon positioned above a feature bar serving themed cocktails. Spirit Works Square will include food trucks, light projections and ongoing activity throughout the night.

The Commissariat building will display animated scenes with mechanical airships, toys and cog-driven reindeers. Another zone, known as The Underpass, will include shifting beams of colour and lighting effects set to remixed festive tracks.

Christmas festival — *Photo Credit: The Star Brisbane/Facebook*

Event Operations and Accessibility

Sono Lumo will operate from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. each evening, with lighting displays most visible after dark. Public toilets, temporary seating and signage will be available across the site. Hydration stations and water bubblers will be set up throughout the precinct, and the event will run as a cashless venue.

The Star Brisbane and Queen’s Wharf Brisbane are wheelchair accessible, offering lifts and accessible movement routes. No road closures are planned, although traffic control will be in place on the cycle path to allow pedestrian access to The Landing. Any changes due to severe weather will be announced through The Star Brisbane website.

Tom Thum — *Photo Credit: The Star Brisbane/Facebook*

Community Interest

Comments on social media show local enthusiasm for the festival’s return, with visitors planning to attend during hotel stays, night-time walks and other seasonal outings.

Outlook

Sono Lumo will again present a large-scale festive program in Brisbane CBD, offering lighting displays, themed zones and nightly entertainment across Queen’s Wharf over ten December nights.

Published 24-Nov-2025

Moonlight Cinema Returns to Roma Street Parklands for 30th Season

Photo Credit: Moonlight Cinema

Moonlight Cinema is set to bring its 30th anniversary season to Roma Street Parklands, offering audiences the chance to help shape the program through an Australia-wide vote.

Celebrating Three Decades of Outdoor Films

Moonlight Cinema marks 30 years since its first screening in 1995, a milestone reached after entertaining more than five million attendees nationwide. The outdoor cinema continues to be part of the summer calendar across Australia.

The People’s Program: Audience Voting Now Open

As part of the 30th anniversary season, Moonlight Cinema has launched The People’s Program, allowing audiences to vote for the films they want screened later in the season. The top-voted titles will be shown from late January until the end of the program across locations including Sydney’s Centennial Parklands, Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens, Brisbane’s Roma Street Parklands, Perth’s Kings Park and Botanic Garden, and Adelaide’s Botanic Park.

Moviegoers can vote online and will receive a discount that applies specifically to The People’s Program sessions once the selected films are announced in January. Visitors can bring their own picnic setup or choose premium seating options such as Singapore Airlines Gold Grass or the Connoisseur Lounge. Voting closes on 15 December.

The initiative forms part of Moonlight Cinema’s 30th year, marking three decades of outdoor screenings enjoyed by audiences nationwide.

VOTE NOW

Roma Street Parklands Screening Schedule

The Roma Street Parklands program aligns with the national Moonlight Cinema season, which runs across Australian locations from 21 November 2025 to 5 April 2026.

The November schedule features four confirmed titles:

The Naked Gun on 26 November
Materialists on 27 November
Regretting You on 28 November
F1 The Movie on 29 November
How to Train Your Dragon on 30 November

Across December, the program includes a mix of new releases, festive films and returning favourites. Early December features titles such as Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, Eternity, Jurassic World: Rebirth and Die Hard. The month continues with Christmas-themed screenings including The Holiday, Last Christmas, Love Actually, Home Alone, Elf, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, The Nightmare Before Christmas and The Polar Express.

Late December brings more seasonal favourites, with additional showings of Home Alone, Love Actually and Home Alone 2 – Lost in New York. The final week of the month includes new family releases such as Zootopia 2 on 26 December, Wicked: For Good on 27 December and Moana 2 on 28 December.

VIEW FULL PROGRAM

Experience Options on Site

Moonlight Cinema will again offer on-site activations, food options and bars throughout the season. Premium seating upgrades include the Singapore Airlines Gold Grass section, featuring priority positioning, express entry and food and drink delivery. The Connoisseur Lounge provides a reserved bean bed and a Connoisseur Gourmet Ice Cream. General admission tickets remain available for those preferring to bring their own rugs and snacks.

Looking Ahead

Roma Street Parklands will continue hosting screenings as part of the national program through early 2026, with sessions shaped by audience votes and scheduled releases.

Published 13-Nov-2025

Howard Smith Wharves to Host Grand Final Celebrations for Broncos Fans

Howard Smith Wharves will transform into Brisbane’s riverside gathering place this long weekend as footy fans rally behind the Broncos in both the men’s and women’s grand finals. The precinct will broadcast the matches on big screens across multiple venues, giving supporters a central hub to share the finals excitement.

Community coming together

The event will take place on Sunday, 5 October, with an all-day program designed to keep the community entertained. The schedule begins at 12:00 p.m. with a state championship game screened without sound, followed by the NRLW Grand Final at 2:55 p.m. between the Brisbane Broncos and the Sydney Roosters.

From 5:45 p.m., pre-game entertainment will set the tone for the NRL Grand Final at 6:30 p.m., when the men’s Broncos side take on the Melbourne Storm.

What fans can expect

The celebrations will span across Howard Smith Wharves, including Felons Barrel Hall, Felons Beer Garden, Felons Fish & Chipper Lawn and the Rivergarden. Felons Brewery will be offering its signature beers alongside game-day food options, with plenty of walk-in seating available for those without bookings. Once the final sirens sound, the precinct will carry on the celebrations with live music, DJs and bands performing late into the night.

More than football

For those who prefer a different type of energy, the precinct will also feature Mr Percival’s River Disco across the long weekend. Extended trading hours mean Sunday festivities will stretch late, while all venues will also open on Monday in line with the King’s Birthday public holiday.

About the venue

Located under the Story Bridge, Howard Smith Wharves has become known as Brisbane’s cultural and hospitality precinct, home to restaurants, bars, cafes, a hotel and the award-winning Felons Brewery. With its riverside location and variety of spaces, the precinct has positioned itself as a go-to spot for community events that blend sport, music and food.

Published 3-Oct-2025

Brisbane City Markets Offers VIP Strawberry Picking Experience and Staycation

Strawberry lovers, get ready! Brisbane City Markets is offering a VIP picking experience and cozy staycation in the mountains just outside the city.

Bringing the Farm to the City

Brisbane City Markets is giving locals a chance to escape the city with a VIP Strawberry Picking Experience and staycation. Valued at over $800, the prize lets one winner and a guest pick strawberries at Fresh Berries Direct and enjoy a night at Mount Mee Country Lodge, an hour from Brisbane.

Organised by Goodwill Projects, the market offers fresh, farm-direct produce, artisan goods, and gourmet foods. Vendors like Fresh Berries Direct, with over a decade of experience from Caboolture and Stanthorpe, bring regional Queensland produce to the city. The market connects locals with farmers and artisans, promoting healthier eating and supporting small businesses.

A Straw-bulous Escape

Entries for the competition close on 25 August at 4:00 PM, with winners announced on 26 August. Brisbane City Markets at Reddacliff Place runs every Wednesday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM at 266 George Street, Brisbane.

Mount Mee Country Lodge provides rustic, comfortable accommodations with mini-golf, sports courts, a pool table, and movie and exercise rooms. Perched atop Mount Mee, the lodge offers sweeping views of the Glasshouse Mountains and Moreton Bay, letting visitors relax in nature near the city.

How the Community Can Join

Locals can enter the competition through an online form, providing basic contact information and sharing feedback about Brisbane City Markets.

enter here

The initiative aims to engage the community directly, allowing market-goers to influence the experience while giving them a chance to enjoy a unique farm-to-lodge adventure.

The promotion also highlights Goodwill Projects’ focus on creating meaningful community events that showcase local produce and experiences.

Supporting Local Producers

Through this initiative and regular markets, Goodwill Projects continues to support local growers and artisans, helping them reach a broader audience.

These markets are not only a place to shop but also a platform for education and community connection.

Published 20-August-2025

Pawn & Co. Brings Pawn Shop Meets Party Vibe To Fortitude Valley

Photo Credit: Pawn & Co Brisbane/Facebook

A Bentley in the window, cocktails served in lava lamps, and furniture you can actually take home, Fortitude Valley’s new nightclub, Pawn & Co., is not just a place to dance but a space where nearly everything is for sale.

A New Kind of Nightlife Experience

Pawn & Co. landed in Brisbane in mid-2024, instantly drawing crowds with its “party-meets-pawn-shop” twist. Tucked along Ann Street in Fortitude Valley, the two-storey venue lets guests sip cocktails, dance to DJs, and even buy the décor, from vintage gramophones to high-end cars.

*Photo Credit: Pawn & Co Brisbane/Facebook*

It’s open Thursday to Sunday, starting with theatrical drinks from 6 p.m. and shifting into nightclub mode from 9 p.m. on select nights. Over 250 items have already been sold through its ever-changing displays. Originally from Melbourne, the concept mixes nightlife, retail and a bit of curiosity into one unforgettable experience.

Everything Is for Sale — Literally

Pawn & Co. may look like a vintage pawn shop, but here, almost everything, including the DJ booth and wall art, has a price tag. Its ever-changing collection, sourced from local pawnbrokers and collectors, keeps the space fresh and unpredictable.

You’ll find $10 trinkets sitting alongside a Bentley worth over $300,000. According to staff, the biggest sellers so far include quirky toys, costume jewellery and cheeky adult items.

Cocktails That Double as Theatre

Pawn & Co.’s cocktails aren’t just served, they’re staged, arriving in locked vaults, framed prints, or boxes filled with rose petals. Each drink is inspired by a signature scent, developed through the venue’s in-house perfumery.

This scent-to-cocktail connection adds a sensory layer that sets the experience apart. Guests can also take part in private sessions where they create their own fragrance, later turned into a custom cocktail. It’s a playful blend of mixology and storytelling that feels both personal and unexpected.

Upstairs: The Vault of Curiosities

Upstairs, Pawn & Co. gets cheekier with its “Vault of Curiosities”, an adults-only lounge featuring risqué novelty items, all available to buy.

book a table

Think vibrators, harnesses, and other unexpected finds you wouldn’t normally spot in a nightclub. The vibe is edgy but lighthearted, with staff emphasising humour and guest comfort.

Even the bathrooms play along, hidden behind mirrored glass with a two-way mirror overlooking the bar. It’s all part of the venue’s mission to surprise, delight, and never take itself too seriously.

Published 04-August-2025

James St Food and Wine Trail Returns to Fortitude Valley

Photo Credit: James Street

Fortitude Valley will see the return of the James St Food and Wine Trail, transforming James Street into an open-air dining and entertainment space.

James St Food and Wine Trail Overview

James Street in Fortitude Valley is preparing for the annual James St Food and Wine Trail, a free public event where local restaurants, bars, cafes and providores present their offerings. This year’s event will feature an expanded program, covering a range of food and drink options along with live entertainment and activities for children.

The trail will be held on Sunday 27 July, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., closing the street to traffic to accommodate market stalls, bars, and dining areas.

Event History and Background

The James St Food and Wine Trail began in 2011 as a community initiative to highlight the precinct’s hospitality industry. Since its launch, the event has grown in size and scope, with this year’s edition described as the largest to date.

Food and Drink Line-Up

More than 170 food and beverage choices will be available. Participating venues will include CRU Bar, Bianca, EMME, Jocelyn’s Provisions, Same Same, Sushi Room, Hellenika, and Gelato Messina, among others. Dishes on offer range from sliders, prawn cocktails, and poke bowls to Thai curry, wagyu skewers, fresh oysters, and a limited edition gelato flavour created for the event.

Bars and drink carts across the site will serve beer, wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options.

James St Food and Wine Trail — *Photo Credit: James Street*

Sustainable Practices

Organisers have implemented environmental measures including composting and recycling stations. All takeaway items such as plates, cups, and cutlery will be compostable. Proceeds from container recycling will be donated to a local charity.

Brisbane events — *Photo Credit: James Street*

Accessibility and Community Focus

The event will offer accessible toilets and designated children’s areas. Visitors will be able to move freely through the precinct, with seating available to watch live bands and DJs. Accommodation discounts and promotions are available for attendees seeking to extend their stay.

What’s Next

The James St Food and Wine Trail is set to provide a large-scale culinary experience in Fortitude Valley, showcasing local talent and community spirit while promoting sustainable event practices.

Published 28-June-2025

Significant Tree Tour Returns to City Botanic Gardens

Photo Credit: BCC

Did you know that the City Botanic Gardens will soon be hosting a guided walk showcasing 37 “significant trees” recognised by the National Trust for their cultural, environmental, or botanical value?

National Trust Walk Features Listed Trees

A free guided tour of the City Botanic Gardens will take place on 23 July, inviting participants to explore 37 trees recognised by the National Trust for their cultural, environmental, or botanical value. The tour, led by volunteer guides, highlights trees identified as nationally, state or regionally significant.

Longstanding Garden Site with Cultural Roots

Located on Alice Street in Brisbane City, the City Botanic Gardens is Queensland’s oldest public garden. It was formally declared a botanical reserve in 1855. Initially used for crop cultivation by the penal colony, the gardens grew significantly under the guidance of the first curator, Walter Hill. By the late 19th century, it had expanded to nearly 28 acres and featured a variety of native and exotic plantings, including bunya pines and fig trees that remain in place today.

In 1997, the site was officially listed on the Queensland Heritage Register, recognising it as a living collection of historical and botanical importance. The gardens now span 18 hectares along the Brisbane River. It also offers public facilities, educational programs, and self-guided or guided walks.

Event Details and Access

The 90-minute guided walk begins at the Information Kiosk near the Queensland University of Technology’s Main Drive. Designed for participants aged 16 and above, it includes moderate walking across uneven ground, gentle slopes, and stairs. During guide explanations, no seating is provided.

Attendees are advised to wear enclosed shoes and sun protection and bring a water bottle. The event is free. However, bookings are essential.

The walk is scheduled for Wednesday, 23 July, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. General Ticket sales open on 7 July. It will close at 12 p.m. on Monday, 21 July.

heritage trees Brisbane — *Photo Credit: BCC*

Facilities and Venue Information

In addition to guided tours, the gardens feature picnic areas, a children’s playground, an accessible café, and multiple walking routes. The Gardens Club café is located in the heritage-listed Curators Cottage. It operates daily and contributes profits to community causes.

The City Botanic Gardens are open 24 hours a day. However, specific facilities operate within scheduled hours. Customised group walks can also be arranged via BCC with six weeks’ notice.

Booking and Contact Information

Interested participants can book through Eventbrite. Contact BCC on (07) 3403 2535 for enquiries. Walks may be impacted by weather conditions or guide availability.

Published 20-June-2025

Your Family’s Easter Break Planner: Brisbane Events 14 to 20 April 2025

Looking to keep the little ones entertained over the Easter weekend? From creative art workshops and messy play to outdoor treasure hunts and football clinics, Brisbane is packed with fun for families from April 14 to 20, 2025—and beyond. Here’s your guide to the best family-friendly activities and programs happening across the city.

14 April to 16 April 2025

Carina

Lemonade Kids wellbeing workshops and holiday camps for kids
A series of wellness and creative workshops designed for young kids.
Get Tickets

14 April to 17 April 2025

Chapel Hill

Super Special Easter 2025 Holiday Art Workshop
Creative Easter-themed art sessions for kids at Chapel Hill Art Studio.
Get Tickets

Coorparoo

Quest Football Academy’s Fun Football Camps
School holiday football camps focused on fun, fitness, and skills.
Get Tickets

19 April 2025

Brisbane City

Monster Mashup
Unleash creativity with a monster-themed art session at the Museum of Brisbane.
Get Tickets

Precious Punk Badge Studio
Design and create your own punk-inspired badges in this quirky hands-on workshop.
Get Tickets

Carindale

Easter Messy Play – with Gumtreekids
Kids can dive into sensory Easter fun at Carindale Recreation Reserve.
Get Tickets

Mt Coot-tha

Botanical Treasure Hunt
A fun outdoor treasure hunt adventure for kids at the Brisbane Botanic Gardens.
Get Tickets

Ongoing / Other Dates

Indooroopilly

Indro Barn
A pop-up interactive play experience for kids and families.
Get Tickets

Mount Gravatt

Easter School Holiday Fun
Daily family-friendly entertainment at Newnham Hotel.
Get Tickets

Yeronga

Gymnastics and Ninja Holiday Programs
High-energy holiday programs blending gymnastics and ninja fun.
Get Tickets

Various Suburbs

FQ x Roar Holiday Clinics
Football Queensland’s school holiday clinics run across multiple locations.
Get Tickets

With so many creative, active, and engaging events on offer, this Easter break is the perfect time to get the kids out and about across Brisbane. Whether it’s exploring, making, playing, or just burning off energy—there’s something on this list to keep every little person happy.

Plan Your Weekend: Brisbane Gigs You Shouldn’t Miss 19 to 20 April 2025

From dance floors to beer gardens, Brisbane is switching on the energy this weekend. Between April 19 and 20, venues across the city are serving up everything from thumping festivals to intimate live sets. Whether you’re after a Saturday night session or a Sunday chill-out gig, here’s your guide to what’s on.

19 April 2025

Bowen Hills

TOUCH BASS FESTIVAL 2025
A massive electronic music festival landing at Brisbane Showgrounds.
Get Tickets

Brisbane City

Brooklyn Standard
A night of smooth tunes and signature cocktails in the heart of Brisbane.
Get Tickets

Fortitude Valley

Mannequin Death Squad – Wise and Dangerous Tour
Dynamic punk duo bring their high-energy show to Black Bear Lodge.
Get Tickets

DON WEST – EP TOUR
Catch DON WEST live outdoors at The Brightside on his new EP tour.
Get Tickets

I REMEMBER HOUSE – Brisbane Easter Takeover
Dance the night away at this Easter edition of the house music series.
Get Tickets

Kangaroo Point

DJ Dred
DJ Dred spins classic and modern sets at Chattahoochee Joe’s.
Get Tickets

Newstead

CLUB ANGEL
live music
A club night experience with high-energy DJ sets at The Triffid.
Get Tickets

20 April 2025

Fortitude Valley

Crackin’ Easter
A two-day Easter event at The Prince Consort packed with DJs and drinks.
Get Tickets

Inertia ‘Second Shadow’ Australian Tour
Post-hardcore sounds from Inertia as they take over Black Bear Lodge.
Get Tickets

Pop-Up Garden Bar Party
Easter Sunday garden party with live sets and open-air vibes.
Get Tickets

Sunday Service – Easter Sunday Sesh!
Easter Sunday live music celebration at The Wickham.
Get Tickets

VOLATILE WAYS, DEATHBED, SKORN + MORE
A stacked lineup of heavy music takes over The Brightside.
Get Tickets

Wickham Sundaze!
Cap off the weekend with beats and good vibes at The Wickham.
Get Tickets

Kangaroo Point

Chloe Marks, Brooke Schubert
A soulful double act takes the stage at Chattahoochee Joe’s.
Get Tickets

West End

Mojo Webb
Blues master Mojo Webb performs live at The Bearded Lady.
Get Tickets

With something buzzing in every pocket of the city, this weekend is the perfect time to step out and experience Brisbane’s local music scene. Grab your crew, lock in your tickets, and make the most of the Easter weekend lineup.

Brisbane Arts & Culture Guide: 4 to 6 April 2025

Brisbane’s cultural calendar is flourishing with performances, concerts, exhibitions, and theatrical works this weekend. From classical orchestras and jazz nights to ballet and interactive paint parties, the city offers something for every curious mind and creative soul. Here’s your curated guide to the best arts and culture events happening across Brisbane from April 4 to 6, 2025.

Friday, April 4

Paint and Sip: Glow UV Light Paint Party
Wesley Taylor Art Studios, Queen Street, Brisbane City
Unleash your inner artist in this vibrant paint party under UV light. Runs across the weekend with multiple session times.
Event link

Skyfall in Concert
Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, Southbank
Experience the iconic James Bond film with a live orchestral performance by the Queensland Symphony Orchestra.
Event link

Caxton Street Jazz Band
Brisbane Jazz Club, Kangaroo Point
A night of toe-tapping traditional jazz performed by one of Brisbane’s most beloved jazz ensembles.
Event link

The Poems, Prayers and Promises of John Denver
George Hogg Auditorium, Ipswich
Celebrate the music and lyrics of John Denver with this heartfelt tribute concert.
Event link

Zeus
Banshees Bar & Artspace, Ipswich
A genre-bending jazz experience with powerful compositions and captivating stage presence.
Event link

Saturday, April 5

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 in Concert
Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, Southbank
See the final chapter of the Harry Potter saga on the big screen with live orchestral accompaniment.
Event link

Carmina Burana
The Old Museum Concert Hall, Bowen Hills
A powerful choral work performed in one of Brisbane’s most acoustically rich venues.
Event link

The Subterraneans featuring James Ryan
Brisbane Jazz Club, Kangaroo Point
Modern jazz grooves meet saxophone-driven brilliance in this performance by a top Sydney ensemble.
Event link

Bandaluzia Flamenco
Underground Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse, New Farm
Flamenco guitar, percussion, and dance come alive in this award-winning contemporary flamenco show.
Event link

AQUILA
Talbot Theatre, Thomas Dixon Centre, West End
A contemporary ballet performance blending movement, music, and emotion in a compelling narrative.
Event link

The 91-Storey Treehouse
QUT Gardens Theatre, Brisbane City
This theatrical adaptation of the bestselling book is a laugh-out-loud adventure for the whole family.
Event link

Sunday, April 6

FIREBIRD Metro Series 1 – BPO
The Old Museum Concert Hall, Bowen Hills
A thrilling classical music concert by the Brisbane Philharmonic Orchestra featuring Stravinsky’s Firebird.
Event link

THE APPRENTEASE
The Triffid, Newstead
A playful and daring fusion of cabaret, comedy, and dance, this performance showcases Brisbane’s boldest burlesque talents.
Event link

Gypsy Jazz Sundays
The Bearded Lady, West End
End your weekend with smooth rhythms and Parisian swing, performed live in an intimate setting.
Event link

No Regrets – The Edith Piaf Story featuring Nikki Nouveau
Brisbane Jazz Club, Kangaroo Point
Experience the voice and life of the legendary French chanteuse in this musical tribute.
Event link

This weekend is an invitation to step out, dress up, and dive into the rich tapestry of music, performance, and visual expression that Brisbane’s arts scene has to offer. Whether it’s live jazz on the river or orchestras in grand halls, let creativity lead your plans.