Brisbane South National Events
As one of the most vibrant and dynamic regions in Queensland, Brisbane South offers a diverse range of annual events for locals and visitors alike. From cultural festivals to sporting competitions, music concerts to food markets, there’s always something exciting happening on the south side of Brisbane. Here are some nationally or globally recognised annual events that people can observe in and around the region of Brisbane South.
1. Woodford Folk Festival
The Woodford Folk Festival is one of Australia's largest and most popular cultural events, held annually over six days and six nights from December 27th through January 1st in the town of Woodford, just an hour north of Brisbane. The festival features more than 2,500 performers and presenters across 25 separate venues, covering all genres of music, dance, spoken word, circus, cabaret, theatre, and visual arts, as well as workshops, debates, comedy shows, and a stunning fire event on New Year's Eve.
2. Brisbane International
The Brisbane International is an international tennis tournament held in Brisbane in early January, preceding the Australian Open. The tournament attracts some of the world's best tennis players, including top-ranked Australians and international stars. In addition to the tournament matches, there are free family activities, live music, and food and drink vendors throughout the tournament week.
3. Paniyiri Greek Festival
For over 40 years, Paniyiri has been Brisbane's largest and longest-running cultural festival, celebrating the Greek community and its heritage. Held annually over a weekend in May, Paniyiri features live music, traditional Greek dancing, street parade, food, drink, and market stalls. Visitors can experience authentic Greek cuisine, indulge in traditional sweets, and learn about the rich history and culture of the Greek people.
4. Regional Flavours
Regional Flavours is a free, two-day food and wine festival held annually in July at South Bank Parklands in Brisbane. The event showcases the best of Queensland's food and drink, with more than 80 producers sharing their wares and hosting cooking demonstrations, tastings, and workshops. Visitors can try award-winning cheeses, sample boutique beers and wine, and indulge in the region's fresh produce, including fruits, vegetables, and seafood.
5. Ekka
The Royal Queensland Show, or Ekka, is Queensland's largest annual event, attracting around 400,000 visitors over ten days in August. The event has been held in Brisbane since 1876 and features a diverse range of events, including agricultural shows, animal competitions, art and craft displays, live music, food, drink, and carnival rides. Visitors can see working dogs in action, watch cattle and horses being judged, sample traditional Ekka wares like fairy floss and dagwood dogs, and experience the thrill of the sideshow alley.
6. Matilda Awards
The Matilda Awards are Queensland's premier performing arts awards, recognising excellence in theatre productions across the state. The awards night, held annually in late February or early March, features live performances, industry tributes, and the announcement of the winners across various categories. The event is open to industry professionals and theatre lovers, who can mingle with the state's leading actors, directors, designers, and producers.
7. Island Vibe Festival
Island Vibe is a three-day, family-friendly music festival held annually in late October on Stradbroke Island, just off the coast of Brisbane. The festival focuses on reggae, roots, and world music, with live bands and DJs from Australia and abroad playing across multiple stages. Visitors can camp on the beach, participate in yoga and dance workshops, and enjoy the island's natural beauty, including its pristine beaches and wildlife.
These are just a few examples of the many nationally or globally recognised annual events that people can observe in and around the region of Brisbane South. Whether you're a local looking for a fun day out or a visitor planning your itinerary, there's always something exciting happening in Brisbane South.