While many flock to the Brisbane Exhibition (Ekka) for its cute animals, thrilling rides, and iconic strawberry sundaes, there are plenty of other exciting activities to enjoy in Brisbane on the Ekka public holiday, Wednesday, August 14. Here are 14 top events to consider:
1. Browse the Brisbane Portrait Prize
Visit the State Library to see an exhibition featuring top Brisbane artists. The artworks include paintings, photographs, and experimental pieces that highlight Brisbane personalities. This exhibition is free and showcases both traditional and AI-generated works.
2. Head to the Movies
Catch new releases such as Cate Blanchett in the sci-fi action comedy Borderlands and Blake Lively in the romantic drama It Ends With Us. Action films Twisters and Deadpool & Wolverine are still showing, while kids can enjoy the locally made animation 200% Wolf.
3. See the Dinosaurs Unearthed Display at the Queensland Museum
The museum’s dinosaur exhibit has been revamped with interactive touchscreens, 3D-printed models, and 4k animations. Original fossils are complemented by augmented reality features, bringing prehistoric creatures to life on your phone. Entry is free.
4. Go Whale Watching on North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah
Take the ferry to North Stradbroke Island and head to the Gorge Walk at Point Lookout to see humpback whales. This full-day trip is ideal for nature lovers and can be conveniently accessed via SeaLink passenger ferries from Cleveland.
5. Visit Tamborine Mountain
Just an hour’s drive from Brisbane, Tamborine Mountain offers rainforest walks, a zipline adventure, a distillery, cafes, and fearless hang gliders. Enjoy the wintry vibes and stunning views.
6. Stroll the Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mount Coot-tha
These beautiful gardens are free to enter and feature highlights such as the Bonsai House, Tropical Dome, bamboo grove, lagoon, and Japanese Garden. Explore the Hide and Seek Children’s Trail or visit the Planetarium nearby.
7. Bliss Out to Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon
Experience mind-blowing visuals set to the iconic album at the Planetarium’s Cosmic Skydome. This special presentation runs until the end of the year. Tickets are $17 for adults and $12 for kids.
8. Swing, Slide, and Climb at a Spectacular Playground
Brisbane boasts several fantastic playgrounds like Bradbury Park in Kedron and Frew Park in Milton. These vibrant, exciting play areas are perfect for kids and are free to enjoy.
9. Take a Deep Dive into the Titanic Story at Uptown
Explore Titanic: The Human Story, an immersive exhibition featuring real relics and recreations of the ill-fated ship’s cabins. Located at Uptown off Queen Street Mall, tickets range from $31 to $39.
10. Try to Get a Hole in One at Mini-Golf
Enjoy a round of mini-golf at venues like Holey Moley or outdoor courses at Pacific Golf Club and Hillstone St Lucia. It’s a fun activity for both kids and adults.
11. Do the Nutbush at Tina: The Tina Turner Musical
This musical, showcasing Tina Turner’s journey from Nutbush, Tennessee, to global stardom, is a must-see. Performances are scheduled on Ekka Day with tickets available online.
12. See Holden vs Ford at the Brisbane Motor Museum
Located in Banyo, this museum features classic cars like Toranas, Escorts, and Monaros. It’s open daily from 8 AM to 3 PM, and adult tickets are $25.
13. Check Out the Futuristic Fashions at Iris Van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses
This exhibition at QPAC displays avant-garde garments designed by Iris van Herpen for celebrities like Beyoncé and Lady Gaga. Tickets are $30 for adults and $12 for kids.
14. Relive the 1990s with Ride and Mercury Rev at the Tivoli
Enjoy live performances by UK shoegaze band Ride and American act Mercury Rev on August 14. Tickets are $99.90 and available online.
These diverse activities ensure there’s something for everyone to enjoy on the Ekka public holiday, whether you’re looking for cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or family-friendly fun.