What's on in Brisbane this weekend for families

Current events

Christmas Actually 2023 in Brisbane

    Dates: Wednesday 13 December 2023 - Sunday 17 December 2023

  • Address: Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse, Yagara Country, 119 Lamington St, New Farm QLD 4005
  • Duration: 90 minutes
  • Ages: 12+ years old
What's on in Brisbane in December 2023: Christmas Actually, live in concert
What's on in Brisbane in December 2023: Christmas Actually, live in concert

Get ready to jingle all the way at Christmas Actually in Brisbane! The live concert extravaganza is bringing the magical music of Love Actually to life on stage!

Experience the joy of Love Actually's iconic songs by Mariah Carey, The Beatles, and more, performed by Australia’s top musicians and superstar vocalists including Luke Kennedy and Irena Lysiuk.

With a sprinkle of comedy, heaps of charm, and a dash of holiday spirit, this family show is the perfect way to kick off the season. 🎄🎶✨

Christmas Actually tickets:

  • Tickets start from $79.

The Enchanted Garden in Brisbane

    Dates: Thursday 23 November 2023 - Wednesday 20 December 2023

  • Address: Roma Street Parkland, 1 Parkland Blvd, Brisbane City QLD 4000
  • Ages: All ages
What's on in Brisbane today for families: The Enchanted Garden
What's on in Brisbane today for families: The Enchanted Garden

Step into a world of magic and wonder at The Enchanted Garden in Brisbane!

You and your family can embark on an enchanting adventure by helping a mischievous Possum restore harmony to Mystic Island by collecting crystal shards in this dazzling light show.

Marvel at holograms, lasers, LED lights, and more. Don't miss this magical experience!

The Enchanted Garden opens at 6:30 pm, with sessions every 15 minutes until 9:15 pm.

The Enchanted Garden Tickets:

  • General admission (13+ year olds): $9
  • Children (ages 3-12 years): $7
  • Family (2 Adults & 2 Children under 12 years old) (Admits 4): $30 / $7.50 per ticket
  • Family (2 Adults & 3 Children under 12) (Admits 5): $36 / $7.20 per ticket

The South Bank Christmas Show 2023

    Dates: Monday 18 December 2023 - Saturday 23 December 2023

  • Address: South Bank Piazza, 410 Stanley St, South Brisbane QLD 4101
  • Duration: 45 minutes
  • Ages: All ages
What's on in Brisbane for families: The South Bank Christmas Show
What's on in Brisbane for families: The South Bank Christmas Show

Bring the whole family to the South Bank Christmas Show in Brisbane!

Join Santa's workshop elves in a spectacular show that reveals the wild chaos that strikes on Christmas Eve.

This festive family event features live music, talented singers and energetic dancers the kids won't forget!

The South Bank Christmas Show 2023 Tickets:

  • Tickets: $12

Illusions Magic Show - Sanctuary Cove

    Dates: Friday 30 June 2023 - Saturday 30 December 2023

  • Address: The Village Theatre Sanctuary Cove, Masthead Way, Hope Island QLD 4212
  • Ages: 3+ years old
Family events Brisbane / Gold Coast: Illusions Magic Show
Family events Brisbane / Gold Coast: Illusions Magic Show

Get ready to be amazed by Matt Hollywood's Illusions Magic Show! This Las Vegas-style extravaganza is packed with mind-blowing magic, award-winning showmanship, and astonishing illusions.

Suitable all ages (for 3+ years old), this magic show is perfect for a memorable family outing.

Illusions Magic Show tickets

  • Adult: $99 per ticket
  • Child (aged 4 to 15): $69 per ticket

Santa's Putt Putt - Gold Coast

    Dates: Friday 10 November 2023 - Tuesday 02 January 2024

  • Address: Boulder’s and Badlands Mini Golf, 76-122 Napper Road, Parkwood, QLD, 4214
  • Ages: 5+ years old
What's on Gold Coast this weekend for families: Santa's Putt Putt in Parkwood Village
What's on Gold Coast this weekend for families: Santa's Putt Putt in Parkwood Village

Get ready for an unforgettable Christmas adventure at Santa's Putt Putt in Parkwood Village on the Gold Coast!

Step into a Christmas wonderland filled with flashing lights, sparkly decorations, snow, festive tunes and more as you play Christmas-themed mini-golf with your family and friends.

It's the perfect place for the Christmas holiday celebrations!

Plus, you can win fantastic prizes, including a $1,000 food & beverage voucher and festive hampers, by joining the Santa's Putt Putt competition.

Don't miss this unforgettable Christmas experience!

Santa's Putt Putt Tickets:

  • Adults: A$26.72
  • Child (5-12 years): A$20.37
  • Concession: A$22.49
  • Family Pass (2 Adults & 2 Kids): A$80.72 / A$20.18 each

Dinosaur World - Brisbane Show

    Dates: Tuesday 09 January 2024 - Sunday 14 January 2024

  • Address: Powerhouse Theatre, Yagara Country, 119 Lamington St, New Farm QLD 4005
  • Duration: 50 minutes (show) + 15 minutes (meet & greet with Dinosaurs)
  • Ages: 3+ years old
Christmas holiday activities in Brisbane: Dinosaur World - Live
Christmas holiday activities in Brisbane: Dinosaur World - Live

Get ready for a thrilling family show like no other in Brisbane! Dinosaur World Live invites you to embark on an interactive journey filled with awe-inspiring, lifelike Dinosaurs.

Together with their fearless explorer you'll explorer a range of incredible Dinosaurs, including the mighty Tyrannosaurus Rex, Triceratops, Giraffatitan, Microraptor, and Segnosaurus.

After the show, you'll meet and greet your new dinosaur friends. Book your tickets today for a roaring good time during the summer school holidays in Melbourne!

Tickets for Dinosaur World Live in Brisbane

  • Tickets start from $64.90

IMAGINATOR / IMAGINARIA Brisbane

    Dates: Wednesday 06 December 2023 - Sunday 21 January 2024

  • Address: Queensland Maritime Museum, 412 Stanley St, South Brisbane QLD 4101
  • Ages: All age groups
Whats on for kids in Brisbane: IMAGINATOR (Formerly Imaginaria), a fantastic play space and interactive experience for all ages
Whats on for kids in Brisbane: IMAGINATOR (Formerly Imaginaria), a fantastic play space and interactive experience for all ages

If you're looking for an amazing, interactive experience that the whole family can enjoy, head to IMAGINATOR (previously IMAGINARIA) at Queensland Maritime Museum in Brisbane.

This incredible play space offers a range of digital art installations and light shows that are fun for kids and adults alike. IMAGINARIA is an immersive experience that will take you on a journey into a calming and colourful kaleidoscopic experience.

IMAGINARIA Tickets:

  • Standard Ticket: $29.95
  • Children under 3 years: FREE.

Storytime Ballet: The Sleeping Beauty Ballet (Brisbane 2024)

    Dates: Thursday 18 January 2024 - Sunday 21 January 2024

  • Address: Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse, Yagara Country, 119 Lamington St, New Farm QLD 4005
  • Duration: 50 minutes
  • Ages: 3+ years old
Brisbane: what's on for kids - The Australian Ballet presents Storytime Ballet: The Sleeping Beauty
Brisbane: what's on for kids - The Australian Ballet presents Storytime Ballet: The Sleeping Beauty

The Australian Ballet presents a shorter version of the famous Sleeping Beauty ballet with their exciting Storytime Ballet interactive experience in Brisbane.

This kids and family event is perfect for 3+ year olds to introduce your little ones to the magical world of ballet.

With its enchanting story, stunning costumes and Tchaikovsky’s timeless classical music, this ballet will captivate and delight kids and adults alike!

Don’t forget to dress up in your favourite fairytale character outfit to make it a more magical experience!

Tickets for the Sleeping Beauty Ballet - Brisbane 2024:

  • Tickets: from $58
  • Babies and toddlers (18 months and under): FREE on the knee

Ant Middleton in Brisbane: Fear Bubble Show

    Dates: Friday 02 February 2024

  • Address: Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, Glenelg St, South Brisbane QLD 4101
  • Duration: 90 minutes
  • Ages: All age groups
What's on in Brisbane for families with teenagers: Ant Middleton show - Fear Bubble: Your Life, Your Time
What's on in Brisbane for families with teenagers: Ant Middleton show - Fear Bubble: Your Life, Your Time

Get ready for an incredible night of growth, inspiration, resilience and adventure with Ant Middleton, the SAS Australia star and bestselling author. Ant is coming back to Brisbane with his brand-new FEAR BUBBLE: Your Life, Your Time tour!

In this live show, Ant will teach you the secrets of positive mindset and conquering fear. You'll learn how to turn fear into your advantage, the importance of emotional intelligence, and discover Ant's secret to living a purposeful life.

Drawing from his thrilling experiences in the special forces and his role on SAS Australia, Ant will share powerful stories and practical skills to empower you to face life's challenges.

Don't miss this unique chance to learn from a true master of extreme adventure and positive mindset.

Ant Middleton: FEAR BUBBLE tickets

  • Tickets start at $59

Alice in Wonderland (Brisbane Show)

    Dates: Tuesday 02 April 2024 - Wednesday 03 April 2024

  • Address: Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse, Yagara Country, 119 Lamington St, New Farm QLD 4005
  • Duration: 1 hours (no interval)
  • Ages: 5+ years old
What's on for families & Easter events 2024: Alice in Wonderland, theatrical show
What's on for families & Easter events 2024: Alice in Wonderland, theatrical show

Get ready for a magical adventure with Alice in Wonderland at Brisbane Powerhouse during Easter holidays 2024!

It's a must-see family show during the Easter school holidays in Brisbane that promises fun, laughter, and unforgettable memories for all ages!

Join Alice as she tumbles down the rabbit hole into a world of wonder and whimsy. You'll meet the White Rabbit, the Mad Hatter, the Cheshire Cat, and more brought to life by talented actors and enchanting puppetry.

With clever wordplay and hilarious humour, older kids and grown-ups will have so much fun, while younger ones will be captivated by the colourful characters and playful comedy.

Tickets for Alice in Wonderland in Brisbane:

  • Adult ticket: $59.90
  • Concession: $49.90
  • Child (12 Years and under): $49.90
  • Babies (12 months and under): FREE on the knee

The Wiggles: Wiggle Groove Tour (Brisbane)

    Dates: Saturday 06 April 2024 - Sunday 07 April 2024

  • Address: The Fortitude Music Hall, 312-318 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006
  • Ages: Toddlers & preschoolers
What's on for kids in Brisbane / events for toddlers: The Wiggles, Wiggle Groove Tour
What's on for kids in Brisbane / events for toddlers: The Wiggles, Wiggle Groove Tour

Get ready to wiggle and groove with The Wiggles on their exciting Wiggle Groove show in Brisbane!

Join the beloved Wiggles and all their wiggly friends, like Dorothy the Dinosaur and Captain Feathersword, for a musical adventure like no other.

With catchy tunes, dance-along fun, and all your favourite Wiggles songs, this fantastic kids' show promises to be a joyous extravaganza of music and laughter for the whole family.

The Wiggles Brisbane concert tickets:

  • Tickets start from $39.82
  • Children under 12 months old: FREE (on the lap of a parent or guardian).

🎉 Explore what's on in Brisbane for families this weekend and school holidays

When it comes to what's on in Brisbane this weekend for families, this vibrant city in Queensland is a hub of family-friendly, cultural, artistic, and sporting events.

Each weekend, Brisbane offers many family-friendly events. Whether it's a visit to one of the city's famous museums, going to the best markets in Brisbane, attending much-anticipated kids' shows, or cheering for a favourite sports team, Brisbane has something for everyone in your family.

This guide dives into some of Brisbane's best events for families. Join us as we explore what's on in Brisbane for families this weekend and school holidays.


Brisbane Museums for kids and families

When asked, “Does Brisbane have a museum?” the answer is yes, and visiting a museum happens to be one of the fun things to do in Brisbane with family. Some of the best Brisbane Museums to visit with kids include:

  • The Museum of Brisbane (MOB) offers exhibits on the city's history, culture, and works by local artists. MOB offers fun events for kids and diverse exhibits during the QLD school holidays.

  • Queensland Museum focuses on natural history, science, and cultural heritage.

  • Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium features many exhibits and displays related to space, providing an immersive experience.

  • The Workshops Rail Museum in Ipswich showcases the history of Australia's oldest operating railway workshop and a collection of train carriages. 

The best Science Museum in Brisbane

Sciencentre, which is part of the Queensland Museum, is the best science museum in Brisbane. Located in the South Bank precinct of Brisbane, it offers nearly 100 interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that make learning about science fun.


The best Brisbane Markets to visit with kids

When it comes to visiting Brisbane markets with kids, the family-friendly atmosphere and activities are important. Here are some of the best options:

  • Jan Powers Farmers Markets are known for their fresh produce and offer a range of activities and entertainment for kids. 

  • The Mummy Tree Markets are all about products for babies, children and community events for families. You'll find a family-friendly atmosphere, live entertainment, food stalls, activities for children and a wide range of children's clothes, toys, etc. The markets are held at various locations in Brisbane.

  • Rock A Buy Markets offer a range of pre-loved and new baby and kids' items. These markets are a great place to find affordable clothing, toys, and accessories for kids. The Markets take place at various locations in Brisbane. 

  • Eat Street is a popular food market located in Hamilton, QLD. It offers a wide variety of food stalls and live entertainment, making it a fun and vibrant destination for families. 


The best family-friendly Brisbane Festivals

Brisbane offers many family-friendly festivals throughout the year, including:

  • Australia Day Celebration and Bulimba Big Bash are held on Australia Day (26 January). This Brisbane festival features live music, food stalls, and children's activities.

  • Lunar New Year Festival is in January at Brunswick Street Mall in Fortitude Valley, Brisbane. This cultural festival celebrates the Chinese New Year with food, music and cultural performances.

  • Brisbane Comedy Festival takes place in March and features local and international stand-up comedians.

  • Bluewater Festival is in March. This Brisbane festival celebrates the start of the Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race with rides, markets, entertainment, and fireworks.

  • World Science Festival Brisbane takes place in March and brings science, art and technology together. It offers interactive exhibits, science-themed events and activities for all ages.

  • Royal Queensland Show (Ekka) is a family-friendly event that offers many family-friendly activities, entertainment, competitions, live music, rides, and food stalls. It’s held each August.

  • Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers is held in September. This Brisbane festival features a parade, a flower show and food stalls.

  • Riverfire Brisbane takes place in September during the Brisbane Festival. It features a fireworks display over the Brisbane River. You’ll also enjoy food stalls and live music performances.


Popular Family Events and Concert in Brisbane

When it comes to the best-ever concert in Brisbane, it depends on personal tastes. However, some of the Brisbane concerts were highly regarded by the fans:

  • Coldplay's performance at Suncorp Stadium in 2012 was ranked as the city's best-ever stadium performance.

  • Guns N' Roses concert in Brisbane in 2022 was also highly praised as one of the major events in Brisbane.

  • Many fans also highly appreciated Taylor Swift's 1989 Tour in Brisbane in 2015.

Brisbane also hosts many music festivals in 2023 and 2024, including many upcoming family-friendly concerts, famous festivals, kids’ events, popular family events and live performances taking place throughout the year.

These include The Wiggles concert in Brisbane, Disney On Ice - 100 Years of Wonder, Pevan and Sarah's on-stage performance and many more.

Where are concerts held in Brisbane?

There are many indoor and outdoor concert venues in Brisbane where shows take place. Some of the best concert venues in Brisbane include:

  • Brisbane Entertainment Centre is one of the largest indoor concert venues in Queensland.

  • Riverstage is a popular outdoor venue for music concerts and festivals.

  • Fortitude Music Hall is known for hosting many fantastic events and concerts by both international and local artists. 

  • QPAC (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) is a major performing arts venue that includes four theatres: the Lyric Theatre, Concert Hall, Playhouse, and Cremorne Theatre.

  • The Zoo (the Shannon’s Building on Ann Street) is a popular indoor live music venue in Fortitude Valley, Brisbane. 

Brisbane Powerhouse is a cultural centre in Brisbane that hosts a variety of events, including concerts, plays, live stage performances, festivals, exhibitions and more.


Must-visit Children's Theatres in Brisbane

Brisbane has several theatres and performing arts centres that offer family-friendly events and kids’ shows:

  • Brisbane Arts Theatre offers a variety of family shows, musicals and productions throughout the year.

  • Queensland Theatre offers a wide range of classic plays, contemporary works, and new Australian plays. The Theatre also offers various educational opportunities and school holiday programs for teenagers.

  • QPAC (Queensland Performing Arts Centre) produces a variety of high-quality family events each year, especially during the QLD school holidays, including “Hide the Dog”, “Disney Princess - The Concert”, and “Bluey's Big Play The Stage Show”.

  • Brisbane Powerhouse caters to families with kid-friendly shows and school holiday events.

  • La Boite Theatre produces a range of family shows suitable for teenagers and young people and offers performing arts school holiday activities in Brisbane.


Major Events in Brisbane you can't miss

Brisbane hosts a wide range of major events throughout the year, including sporting events, cultural festivals, music festivals, and family-friendly events. So mark on your calendar the major events Brisbane has:

  • Brisbane Comedy Festival is in September each year for three weeks. You’ll enjoy a lineup of top comedians and stand-up performances.

  • Brisbane Festival takes place each September and features thrilling theatre, classical and contemporary music, dance, circus, opera performances, and the iconic Riverfire pyrotechnic display. 

  • Ekka - Royal Queensland Show is an annual agricultural show held in August. It features livestock competitions, family fun entertainment, rides, and many exhibits.

  • Queensland Caravan & Camping Supershow takes place in early June each year, where visitors can participate in various activities related to camping and caravanning.

  • The Brisbane French Festival takes place in July, offering an immersive experience of French culture, food, wine, music, and entertainment. This cultural festival features a dedicated area for children with a range of fun activities.

Top Cultural Festivals in Brisbane

Some of the top cultural festivals in Brisbane that offer fun events for kids and the whole family include:

Top Cultural Festivals in Brisbane

When Celebrated 

Chinese New Year Festival (Spring Festival or Lunar New Year)

January

BrisAsia Festival

February

Brisbane Multicultural Festival 

February or March

Buddha Birth Day Festival in South Bank Parklands

April - May (еhe dates may vary from year to year)

Paniyiri Greek Festival

May

French Festival

July

Brisbane Festival

September

German Week

October

Brisbane International Film Festival

October

Valley Fiesta in Brisbane's Fortitude Valley

November

Brazilian Festival

November


What are the major Sporting Events In Brisbane?

Brisbane hosts a range of sporting events throughout the year. Some of the major sporting events in Brisbane include: 

  • International Cricket Council Men's T20 World Cup

  • Brisbane International Tennis Tournament (in January)

  • Brisbane Global Rugby Tens (in February)

  • Brisbane Broncos NRL Matches

  • Brisbane Lions AFL Matches

  • Brisbane Heat BBL Matches

  • FIFA Women's World Cup 2023

  • Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games

The top Brisbane Stadiums include:

Below are some of the top stadiums in Brisbane that host various family-friendly sports events, concerts, and other live performances.

Top Brisbane Stadiums

Capacity

Suncorp Stadium (Lang Park Stadium) in Milton, Brisbane

52,500+

QSAC (Queensland Sport and Athletic Centre)

48,500

The Gabba Stadium in Woolloongabba, Brisbane

36,000

Brisbane Showgrounds

25,490

Heritage Bank Stadium in Carrara on the Gold Coast

22,500 

Brisbane Entertainment Centre

11,000 - 14,000

Ballymore Stadium in Brisbane

14,000

Kayo Stadium (Dolphin Stadium) in Kippa-Ring in the City of Moreton Bay

10,000

Queensland Tennis Centre in Brisbane

5,500 - 7,000


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