Cockroach Races at the Story Bridge Hotel

Overview

If ever an event could straddle the line between gross and fun, it's this one. For 35 years, the Story Bridge Hotel has commemorated Australia Day by seeing if one scurry pest could outrun another. It all started as a bet between friends back in 1981, and now it's an annual party. And yes, it's something that every Brisbane resident really must experience for themselves at one point or another.

14 races, complete with a steeple chase, is just the beginning, with live music, street entertainers, costume contests and food trucks all part of the action. Basically, it's a great excuse to throw a shindig without worrying about pest control.