Brisbane delivers a jam-packed year of exciting events, ranging from world-class concerts and theatre performances to major sports tournaments and vibrant cultural festivals. If you’re planning a trip to the River City this year, here’s a rundown of some of the must-attend events.
2026 BRISBANE EVENTS:
Annie
Now until the 31 January 2026
Location: QPAC
The sun’ll come out this summer with the beloved classic Annie. Don’t miss this heartwarming story and iconic score live on stage.
4 to 11 January 2026
Location: Queensland Tennis Centre, Tennyson
Catch top ATP and WTA players in action at the Brisbane International, Brisbane’s premier tennis event.
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
12, 13, 14, 15 February 2026
Location: Suncorp Stadium
A stirring celebration of music, culture, and tradition—The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo marches into Brisbane for a spectacular four-night event.
16 February 2026
Location: Brisbane Entertainment Centre
A mesmerising performance from the boundary-pushing pop visionary, blending poetic lyricism and immersive sound.
20, 21, 22 February 2026
Location: Suncorp Stadium
Global superstar Ed Sheeran returns to Brisbane for three unforgettable nights, performing chart-topping hits and fan favourites live under the stars.
CATS
From February 2026
Location: QPAC
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary musical CATS returns! With stunning costumes, unforgettable music, and captivating choreography, it’s a theatrical must-see.
Squash Australian Open 2026
10 to 15 March 2026
Location: South Bank, Brisbane
The Australian Open is the premier squash event in Australia, with a proud history dating back to 1928. As one of just seven Gold-level tournaments on the PSA World Tour, it draws the world’s top players, all competing for the coveted Australian Open title.
Sunday 12 April 2026
Location: Brisbane
Ride through Brisbane’s most iconic streets and scenic riverside routes at Tour de Brisbane, a vibrant cycling event that brings the whole city to life. Perfect for all levels of riders.
2026 Ampol Women’s State of Origin Game 2
Thursday 14 May 2026
Location: Suncorp Stadium
The Harvey Norman Queensland Maroons will host the NSW Blues in Game Two of the 2026 Ampol Women’s State of Origin Series.
NRL Magic Round Day 1, Day 2 and Day 3
Friday 15 May to Sunday 17 May 2026
Location: Suncorp Stadium
Day 1 Sharks meeting the Bulldogs followed by the Dolphins and Rabbitohs clash. Day 2 Wests Tigers squaring off against the Sea Eagles, followed by the Roosters-Cowboys showdown. The final game on Saturday features the Eels and Storm. Day 3 Newcastle taking on the Titans, followed by Brisbane Broncos taking on the Warriors, finishing with Panthers taking on the Dragons.
23 and 24 May 2026
Location: Musgrave Park
2026 marks the 50th anniversary of the popular Paniyiri Greek Festival! Don’t miss Australia’s longest running Greek Festival.
Sunday 7 June 2026
Location: Margaret Street, Brisbane City to City Botanic Gardens
The EVA Air Brisbane Marathon Festival is a premier running event in Brisbane featuring distances from 2 km to the full 42.2 km, welcoming athletes of all levels across stunning city courses.
From 7 June 2026
Location: Lyric Theatre, QPAC
Based on Tim Burton’s dearly beloved film, BEETLEJUICE THE MUSICAL tells the story of Lydia Deetz, a strange and unusual teenager whose whole life changes when she meets a recently deceased couple and a demon with a thing for stripes.
2026 Ampol State of Origin – Game 3
Wednesday 8 July 2026
Location: Suncorp Stadium
Suncorp Stadium is set to host the final game in the 2026 State of Origin series between the Maroons and the Blues.
The Ekka Queensland Royal Show
8 to 16 August 2026
Location: Brisbane Showgrounds
The beloved Ekka returns with fun for all ages, featuring live entertainment, rides, animals, delicious eats, show bags, and much more.
4 to 26 September 2026
Various locations across Brisbane will be alive with theatre, music, dance, and street performances during this world-class festival. Kicking off with the always impressive ‘Riverfire’ on the 5 of September.
Rugby League World Cup 2026: Men’s Australia v Fiji
Sunday 25 October 2026
Location: Suncorp Stadium
Witness the Rugby League World Cup clash between Australia and Fiji this October at Suncorp Stadium.
Rugby League World Cup 2026: Men’s and Women’s Finals
Sunday 15 November 2026
Location: Suncorp Stadium
Where nations clash, heroes rise, and legends are forged. Don’t miss the Men’s and Women’s Finals Double Header of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup this November at Suncorp Stadium Brisbane.
These incredible events are just a taste of what Brisbane has to offer in 2026. Whether you’re a sports fan, music lover, or cultural enthusiast, there’s something for everyone.
Book Your Stay
Looking for accommodation near all the action? West End Central Apartments offers the perfect base, centrally located to key venues, including the Brisbane Entertainment Centre, QPAC, and South Bank Parklands.
Getting Around
From West End Central Apartments, you’ll be within easy reach of top event venues such as:
- Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre – 5 minute walk | 400m
- Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) – 10 minute walk | 800m
- Suncorp Stadium – 10 minute drive or 25 minute walk | 2.8km
- Brisbane Entertainment Centre – 30 minute drive | 20km
- Brisbane Showgrounds – 12 minute drive | 5.2km
Note: Event dates and locations are subject to change. Please check with the respective event organisers for the latest details.
Brisbane’s 2025 event calendar is packed, and it promises to be an unforgettable year!
Image courtesy of Tourism and Events Queensland.
