There’s nothing quite like spring in Brisbane. Clear, sunny days and an entertainment calendar overflowing with exciting events makes the spring months a wonderful time to visit the Sunshine State capital.
October is shaping up to be a particularly busy month in the River City, so whether you be here for work or play, be sure to hit up one of these great events.
Brisbane International Film Festival: 3 – 13 October
October in Brisbane gets off to a flying start with the Brisbane International Film Festival. Venues across the city will host new releases of both Australian and international contemporary features, documentaries and short programs, live music and panel discussions. Head to the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) and the Elizabeth Picture Theatre in the CBD, the State Library and cinemas in the trendy inner-city suburbs of Newmarket, New Farm and Coorparoo. Opening night kicks off at GOMA on 3 October with a traditional opening night party and a screening of Judy and Punch (starting Australia’s Mia Wasikowska of Alice and Wonderland fame).
Oktoberfest Brisbane: 11 – 13 & 18 – 20 October
Oktoberfest is almost upon, which means it’s time to dust off those trusty lederhosen and bar maid costumes and head to Brisbane’s RNA showgrounds for a celebration of all things German. Touted as Australia’s largest German festival, you’ll find the main action occurring once again in the Oktoberfest Tent. Plenty of entertainment awaits, with music, yodeling, dance and the Bavarian Strongman competition guaranteed to keep you entertained as you tuck into a bier paired with some schweinshaxe (pork knuckle), bratwurst, sauerkraut or schnitzel.
Brisbane Open House: 12-13 October
Brisbane Open House is a free public festival which celebrates the city’s architecture and offers an opportunity to go behind-the-scenes at some of Brisbane’s most impressive buildings. Part of the Open House Worldwide global network, the Brisbane event showcases a wide range of architectural feats, both modern and heritage. In the city, appreciate the recently constructed 1 William Street and view 19th century churches and cathedrals. Marvel at the grand design of City Hall and its magnificent clock tower, the sandstone structures of Old Government House and the grandeur of the Masonic Memorial Centre. Join a tour and take a close look at the historic woolshed precinct of Teneriffe. If you’re keen to learn more about design, head to one of the Speakers Series sessions and listen to architects, designers, planners and other professionals discuss the history and shaping of Brisbane’s buildings.
Good Food and Wine Show: 25 – 27 October
The Brisbane Exhibition and Convention Centre is located in Brisbane’s cultural hub of Southbank, making it the perfect place for a celebration of the city’s culinary achievements. Held over three glorious days, the show is the perfect place to indulge your inner foodie. Book a masterclass and learn about whiskey, wine or cheese from the experts. Wander through the Good Food Market and sample fresh artisanal produce from both well-known and up and coming producers. Stop for a delicious treat at the Truffle Truck, Australia’s only truffle food van. Head to the free Princess Cruises Theatre and watch some of Australia’s most loved chefs cook on stage; there’s Curtis Stone, Matt Moran and Matt Golinski to name a few.
Hidden Lanes Festival: 26 October
Brisbane’s burgeoning laneway scene in edgy Fortitude Valley plays host to the Hidden Lanes Festival. A celebration of food, art, music and fashion amongst The Lanes of the Valley, this free festival invites you to stroll through hidden laneways on one of the festival’s discovery trails; try the art and design trail, the heritage trail or the food and wine trail. You can participate in masterclasses covering a range of topics from pizza, dumpling and cocktail making to tea brewing, hair styling and Q&A sessions on fashion with a range of designers. There’s also an outstanding lineup of local and national musicians and DJs to keep the atmosphere charged.
Feeling inspired for a spring fling in the Sunshine State’s capital this October? Book a great value Virgin Australia fare to Brisbane now and get busy planning.