A cavernous, warehouse-style brewery can feel warm and inviting when the drinks are flowing and the space is filled with people. If the occasion is right, it can also feel downright spooky. From 5pm on Wednesday, October 31, Newstead Brewing Co will be doing their best to make sure that the latter comes true at Nightmare on Doggett Street. On the agenda is an evening to suit the date, all with beer. And it won't just be any old beer. It'll be blood beer. No, you don't need to be a vampire to enjoy it — but it'll get you into the horror mood. The venue will be decked out accordingly, pumpkin carving is one of the night's must-do activities and if you wear a costume, you'll get something special. Food-wise, you'll be able to tuck into $10 death wings, as well as spooky sweets — because getting scared can work up one hell of an appetite.
If there's one thing that the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles taught everyone as a kid — other than the names of famous artists, of course — it's that pizza can't be beaten. That said, there is actually one thing that's better than a regular slice. It's a free slice, obviously. Between 6–8pm on Friday, October 26, The Elephant will be slinging just that to relaunch their pizzas. The venue is now calling its kitchen the Valley Pizzeria, and it's celebrating the occasion in style. Freebies will be handed out by the slice, and you'll have to buy a drink — but that's not a difficult prospect at the end of the week. That said, arriving early is recommended, as this pizza party will run until all of the slices are gone. And as for the doughy delights themselves, they're 12-inch stone-baked pizzas made on homemade bases, and slathered with a range of toppings.
How long has Charles Boyle been dreaming of Jake Peralta and Amy Santiago's wedding? What did Rosa Diaz do before she was a cop? Who keeps swooping in and taking the Nine-Nine crew's cases? Which one is Scully and which is Hitchcock? If you can answer all of the above — and name Captain Holt's dog, Terry's twins, Gina's dance troupe and Jake's favourite movie — then you're set for Blute's Bar's latest trivia night. Yes, it's all about the hit cop sitcom we all know and love. You know, the one that was cancelled and then resurrected in the space of 36 hours. We'd keep asking Brooklyn Nine-Nine questions and dropping tidbits, but we'll save some for the big night. Last time a trivia evenings dedicated to B99 hit town, places were snapped up faster than Terry can snap open a tub of yoghurt. This time, you just need to show up by 7pm, and Thursday, October 25 can be your night to shine (and that can be the title of your sex tape if you'd like). Entry is free, spots are limited so arriving early is highly recommended, and there'll be a squad room full of prizes.
Since 2016, Bite Sip Stroll has been helping hungry diners with a culinary conundrum: sometimes, your tastebuds are just screaming out for dishes from a few different restaurants. After sending Brisbanites on a few tours of the city, the event hopped on over to another part of town — and now it's back for another wander through Fortitude Valley. Feel like sampling chef-designed dishes at Gerard's Bistro, Gerard's Bar, Happy Boy and Bucci all in one trip? You're in luck. Offering up between four meals sized entree and degustation serves, all with a glass of matched wine at each venue, the unique eating experience is named after the European style of dining out. There, indulging in a plate at one place and then a drink at another, and just roaming between eateries in general, is a common occurrence. Basically, it's a moving feast of cuisine and wine pairings, as well as a brief walking tour of the Valley's best culinary spots. You'll pay $129 per head for the privilege, but when are you ever going to have a lunch like this again? Tickets are limited, so we suggest getting yours as quick as you can.
If you're a Brisbanite with a healthy appetite, there's only one place to be across Saturday, July 28 and Sunday, July 29. Take your rumbling stomach and its yearning for something scrumptious down to James Street — and fill it with tasty treats. Over one massive weekend, the New Farm precinct becomes a foodie wonderland for the seventh year running, once again highlighting the gastronomic delights of the area. That includes devouring delicious dishes and drinks, of course, regardless of what kind of food, beverage or event takes your fancy. And, it also boasts a whole day of market activity. On Saturday, which has been dubbed 'trail day', attendees can follow the roadway to a feast of dishes and drinks — think French toast for brunch at Spoon Cafe; a lunchtime spread of wine, meats and cheese at Gerard's Bar; cocktails at Harvey's; and two- or three-course Italian dinners at Bucci. There'll also be plenty of honey on the various menus courtesy of Bee One Third, who already have five beehives on James Street's rooftops. Then, come Sunday, more than 20 businesses will unleash their wares, with the lineup spanning everything from sushi to wine to baked goods to yiros. Also on the agenda at the picnic-style event: cooking demos, three stages of live music and craft classes. No wonder the road will be closed between McLachlan and Roberston Streets, with the trail's zone expanding over to Pottery Barn and St Barts as well.
If there's one thing Brisbanites like, it's watching Studio Ghibli films in a cinema. In fact, over the last few years, a whole heap of cinemas around town have hosted their own celebrates dedicated to the Japanese animation house. The Elizabeth Picture Theatre joined in earlier this year, and it has been such a hit that the venue is bringing the film festival back for a second season. Screening twice a week throughout June until the beginning of September — on Thursday evenings at 6.30pm and Sunday afternoons at 4pm, to be specific — fans can expect the rest of Studio Ghibli's gorgeous features to get a run. Yes, you should be jumping for joy at the chance to see Spirited Away this time, and to feel like you've been transported somewhere magical across the rest of the program. Catch The Tale of the Princess Kaguya, When Marnie Was There, Only Yesterday and Laputa: Castle in the Sky — plus Princess Mononoke, Whisper of the Heart and Pom Poko. Also getting another run are last season's Kiki's Delivery Service, My Neighbour Totoro and Grave of the Fireflies, due to popular demand. If you've missed these films in their limited cinema runs or fest appearances in the past, consider this your chance to catch up. At only $12 per session, make like a moving castle and mosey your way over there. Updated July 17.
Clear your window sills, dust off your shelves, and make some space in the various nooks and crannies scattered throughout your house. Trust us — after a trip to Botanicals by Bella's Botanical Extravaganza on Saturday, June 10, you're going to need more than a few places to pop more than a few plants. A once-a-year sale, the one-day event will be filled with rare and collectible indoor greenery — including succulents — which is why it's always popular. Last year, more than a 1000 people turned up. Accordingly, while entry is free, you'll need to register online if you want to mosey along. With the extravaganza kicking off at 10am, tickets are available for each one-hour window until 2pm. Once you're there, you can browse and buy a large range of plant life, whether you need begonias, a ficus or some ivy. Plus, everyone who walks through the door will get a goodie bag with, well, goodies — and some gardening supplies to help you get on your merry planting way.
Somewhere in your house, there's a spot that's screaming out for a burst of greenery. And sure, you could go to one of the city's many nurseries and plant sales to pick something up — or you could try your hand at making something yourself. Don't know where to start? Don't worry. West Village's kokedama workshops have you covered. Taking place on Saturday, June 16 and Sunday, June 17, the two-hour sessions will teach you the art of making Japanese moss balls — a style of gardening that takes its cues from bonsai. Japanese florist Mikiko will step you through the process, helping you to create not one but two kokedama of your own to take home with you: one sitting and one hanging. For your $95 ticket, you'll also receive a glass of Champagne on arrival, which is certain to get your creative juices flowing.
Why drink at one watering hole, when you can head to two, three, six or more? That's always been the motivation behind everyone's favourite boozy journey, aka a pub crawl. And, it's the exact same type of thinking behind the Urban Wine Walk. Taking another wander around Brisbane, it's the bar-hopping excuse every vino lover needs — if you need an excuse, that is. From midday until 4pm on Saturday, September 1, you'll saunter around South Brisbane, the CBD and Fortitude Valley — and between the likes of Happy Boy, Wandering Cooks, Cloudland, The Fox, Gerard's Bar, Bloodhound Bar and more — sampling wines and having a mighty fine time. As for the tipples, they'll be taken care of by Queensland's Gerler, South Australia's Unico Zela, Western Australia's Hither & Yon and others. Tickets cost $64 including booking fee, and places are limited. This moving cellar door will not only serve up wine tastings, but also your own tasting glass — plus a voucher for another beverage, and a guide to help you plan your mosey between bars.
It's game, set and match at West End's Covent Garden on Sunday, July 15, thanks to a shindig that wouldn't be out of place at both the suburb's and venue's London namesakes. Think gin, high tea and pretending you care about tennis — or genuinely caring about it, if you do — at the bar's Wimbledon Garden Party. With balls flying over in the UK, the Boundary Street hangout is celebrating the occasion in its usual way: with plenty of English juniper spirits. Ableforth's Bathtub Gin, Edgerton Pink Gin, Martin Millers London Dry and The Botanist are just some of the brands you can sip over a three-hour period from 3pm, plus old faithfuls like Bombay Sapphire, Hendricks and Tanqueray, of course. Don your best tennis attire — or something white, at least — to take part, with tickets costing $79 for an afternoon's worth of drinking. Plus, you'll also be able to dip strawberries in the party's unlimited chocolate fountain.
Brisbane does pretty well in the craft brew stakes, but come GABS time, it's difficult not to get a little envious of our pals down south. For those who haven't heard of Melbourne and Sydney's boozy annual celebration, we're talking about the Great Australian Beer SpecTAPular. It isn't coming up north, but Bloodhound Bar is serving the next best thing. If this sounds familiar, that's because the Brunswick Street bar has already treated Brissie residents to a highlights package earlier this year — and they're back with a two-day, weekend-long second effort. Prepare to visit the GABS 2018 Beer Showcase once again across Saturday, July 14 and Sunday, July 15. A selection of beverages will be on offer, and they're really not the kind of brews you'll get to sip every day. In fact, this year, more than 160 unique beers were made just for the fest. From that huge array, you'll be able to sample beverages that sound like they were whipped up in a dream. Given some of the ingredients and flavours on offer, perhaps that's where the ideas behind them came from. Rocks Brewing's Tea Wit Princess Jasmine uses, yep, jasmine tea, while White Lies Brewing's Choc Star combines chocolate and orange. And then there's Watts River Brewing's concoction that's freshly pressed Pinot Noir grapes, plus Murray's Brewing's gin-infused pale ale. There'll be more brews dripping off the keg, too, just ready to tempt your beer-loving tastebuds.
Call it a testing ground, call it a great place for on-stage experimentation, call it the future of entertainment — whichever one you choose, it'll probably be accurate. Fresh Blood Festival is focused on new talent, new ideas and the next generation of arts and stage performances. In short: even if you spend all of your spare time checking out new theatre, don't expect to see something here that you've seen before. Taking over Metro Arts from Thursday, July 12 to Saturday, July 14 and run by the venue's student-company-in-residence Vena Cava Productions, this fest is all about giving fledgling creatives the chance to show off their talents. The 2018 program will showcase 15 productions, and it's certainly big on variety. When you're not watching two people play solitaire, you'll be catching a musical about mental health or witnessing The Good Time Boys put on their latest sketch comedy skits. Or, in one of the festival's most intriguing inclusions, you'll explore old keepsakes — you know, the kinds of things that everyone has, such as photos from several hairstyles ago — and delve into the memories that go with them. That's what world premiere piece Within a Fleeting Moment is all about, and it promises more than just a dose of nostalgia.
Albion's Vieille Branche knows how to give people what they want: not only a fabulously appointed warehouse-slash-event space, but a Midwinter Market to warm up these frosty days. Browse, buy and forget that it's actually been somewhat cold during this latest patch of Brisbane winter on from 7.30am–2pm on Saturday, July 14. There'll be plenty of homewares, ceramics, cheese and more to stock up on, plus succulents, fashion, art, jewellery, tableware and textiles too. The stallholder lineup features everyone from Emile and Solange to Meta Design Co to Grace Candles — and if you've been to a Vieille Branche market before, it's a blend of both old and new sellers, with the event endeavouring to showcase the city's newest emerging designers and makers. Of course, you can showcase them as well by finding something to take home with you. Brighten up your house, pick up a nice gift — or, if nothing else, there's always cheese. Plus something to serve it on, cut it with and wear while you're eating it, too. Image: Vieille Branche.
Osamah Sami has had an interesting life. Born in Iran to Iraqi parents, by the time he was a teenager he'd survived conflict and war, sold fireworks on the Iranian black market and run afoul of the country's religious police. Things didn't get any less complicated after his family emigrated to Australia, with Sami faking his Year 12 result so he could get into medicine, and later escaping an arranged marriage by literally running away on his wedding day. If that last part sounds familiar, it's because it was the plot of his recent film Ali's Wedding (one of our favourites of 2017). And we suspect it might come up in his latest project, a stage adaptation of his autobiographical novel Good Muslim Boy. On stage at QPAC's Cremorne Theatre from July 12 to August 4 in a Queensland Theatre production, the play chronicles Sami's extraordinary life as well as the struggles he faced trying to bring his father's body back to Australia after he died on a trip to Iran.
Maybe you really love Patrick Swayze. Maybe you just need some more terracotta or ceramics in your life. Maybe the idea of pottering around a clay-based showcase, finding pottery pieces and sinking a few pots at the bar is your idea of a great Saturday afternoon. Whichever category you fall into, coast on over to Clayschool's Winter Show. Browse, buy, sip beverages — it's the ultimate exhibition-slash-market. Indeed, while we're talking multi-tasking, Clayschool's students are hoping to show off their unique, handcrafted designs, and sell some as ace one-off wares. Christmas might be months away, but you can start planning already — or pick up something special for someone special, just because (including for yourself). Given that it's all taking place at Wandering Cooks from 1pm on Saturday, June 30, that means food and drinks will be part of the fun as well. East by Middle East, Wow Dumpling and Taste of Punjab will be in the kitchen whipping up their best eats, while the usual tipples will be available, of course.
Paniyiri has already been and gone for 2018, but it's not the only Brisbane festival celebrating all things Greek. Across the weekend of Saturday, June 23 and Sunday, June 24, Riverland is saying "opa!" to Greek food, drinks, music and dancing — and plate smashing. Specifically, you can expect to feast on Greek Street Kantina's gyros, souvlaki and grilled haloumi, as well as its chicken or lamb-loaded fries. And, you can expect to sip Mythos Hellenic lager, ouzo and cocktail jugs. Pair all of the above with a watery view, and it's the closest you'll come to soaking in the Mediterranean air without hopping on a plane. As for the Greek band, zorba dancers and broken crockery, that'll happen between 2–5pm each day. Greek Festival Weekend runs from midday until close on both days, however, with free entry.
Ever wanted to see your favourite bands kick a few goals, and help support a good cause at the same time? Since 1993, the Reclink Community Cup has been turning musos into footy players for an annual charity Aussie rules match, with the Melbourne game drawing more than 10,000 people and raising over $100,000 each year. Sydney's been going strong for years too, with the game finally coming to Brisbane in 2016 — and now it's back again for a third round. Come Sunday, July 29, the city's music community will descend upon Hickey Park in Stafford to put their sporting prowess to the test. Two teams will take to the field: The Rocking Horses, featuring players from an array of Brissie acts, and the Brisbane Lines, filled with a crew of journos, industry staff general music-related folks. Seja, Jodie from Flangipanis, and Ruby and George from Babaganouj and Velociraptor fall in the first camp this year, while senators Anthony Chisholm and Andrew Bartlett will line up alongside staff from 4ZZZ, the ABC, triple j and Rebel FM in the opposition team. Plus, the Community Cup isn't just about getting another dose of the live AFL action, as ace as the prospect of more footy is. Given that rock stars are involved, of course live music is part of the proceedings, with Mad Macka from the Cosmic Psychos, Requin, Marville and DJ Sad Dad on the bill. And, food-wise, expect stalls ready to fill your ravenous stomachs. Watching bands play both music and footy is hungry work, after all. Every dollar raised from ticketing goes towards Reclink's efforts to improve the lives of Queenslanders suffering from disability, homelessness, substance abuse and economic hardship through participation in sport and the arts. Yep, whoever emerges victorious from the game, a heap of deserving folks will be the real winners. Image: Rod Hunt. Updated July 23.
A new fish 'n' chippery has swum into Kangaroo Point, and it's bring a new series of seafood dinners with it. One Fish Two Fish is now home to Red Fish Blue Fish, because why not keep the Dr Seuss theme going? Red Fish Blue Fish welcomes well-known chefs into the Main Street eatery's kitchen, pairing them up and asking them to cook up a storm. Opposite One Fish Two Fish's own head chef Daniel Miletic, Philip Johnson is the latest culinary whiz whipping up a feast on Wednesday, June 26 — putting the skills that have made him such a hit at e'cco to good use. Specifically, Johnson's fishy meal will skew European, featuring a shared banquet menu across three courses, each with matching beverages. It all starts with a pink peach spritz. Next, there's spanner crab linguine and prawn ravioli, as accompanied by 2017 Jericho Wines Fiano. Then, attendees can tuck into a braised blue-eye trevalla, paired with 2017 Jo Landron Muscadet Sevre et Maine La Louvetrie. To top it all off, dessert comes in the form of banana tart with rum and raisin ice cream, plus a glass of Dutschke 'Old Codger' Tawny Port. Tickets cost $75 per person without drinks, or $120 with them, and the dinner kicks off at at 6.30pm.
"For never was there a story of more woe than this of Juliet and her Romeo," William Shakespeare wrote more than four centuries ago. All this time later, the Bard's words still hold up. The ultimate star-cross'd tale of romantic tragedy, Romeo and Juliet just keeps resonating with audiences — whether hitting the big screen with Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes in the 90s, or taking over La Boite between Saturday, May 25 and Saturday, June 14. If you've seen the former, you'll want to see the latter. This stage production is another reimagined affair, this time stripping back the narrative, removing some of the repetition and honing in on the core of the work. La Boite's Romeo and Juliet is also a collaboration with the theatre and the next generation of young actors studying at Queensland University of Technology. Watch these up-and-comers bring this drama to life in a streamlined version staged in the round. There'll be warring families, obviously. There'll be two teenagers trying to follow their hearts, too — and forget that their names are Montague and Capulet. And, there'll be the most memorable three-day love story in history, blossoming anew in Kelvin Grove. Image: Dylan Evans.
For its latest excuse to eat, drink and feel mighty fine, the Treasury Casino is throwing in an extra ingredient. Over one cheese and wine-filled evening, the CBD hotspot will be serving up the best dairy and vino that it can get its hands on — and a whole heap of seafood to go with it. Yep, between 5pm and 8pm on Friday, May 24, your tastebuds will think they've ventured to the depths of the ocean, thanks to a feast of seafood canapés. As for the wine, there'll be more than 30 drops on offer from Australia, New Zealand and beyond. The tastiness takes place in the Treasury's courtyard, so expect a starry backdrop and some live music as well. And if you're feeling extra peckish, there'll be antipasto, charcuterie, assorted dips and artisan breads too — or, you could just dive deep into as much cheese as you can. Sip and sample away for three hours for $69 per person.
Last Christmas, VEND Marketplace helped you deck your halls with all types of greenery — and it isn't stopping there. The northside spot has added a new space dedicated to plants, and it's hosting a huge sale. Welcome to the Greenhouse, as the new area is aptly known. While it has been open, operating and making gardeners' dreams come true since February, you'll want to drop by from 8am on either Saturday, May 11 or Sunday, May 12. That's when the 250-square-metre indoor garden will be slinging its green babies at a special two-day event — and yes, there'll be about succulents, cacti, indoor plants, hanging plants, outdoor plants, pots and more. Plenty of plants will be on sale for less than $15, and there'll also be juice, smoothies, tea, coffee, beer and wine to drink, plus food trucks serving up street eats. Plus, if you can find a hidden jungle animal, you'll nab yourself a free piece of greenery. And, if you're stumped for Mother's Day gifts, the timing couldn't be more perfect.
Cinco de Mayo is the Mexican annual celebration, commemorating Mexican culture and heritage. Although a relatively minor holiday in Mexico (compared with el Día de los Muertos), it has become a huge holiday in the US — and Australia has cottoned-on to the festive day, too. To celebrate, nationwide Mexican chain, Guzman y Gomez, is offering up $5 burritos and bowls all day on Sunday, May 5. Taking place in-store at all Guzman y Gomez stores around Australia, the $5 promotion will be limited to either two burritos, breakfast burritos, mini burritos or burrito bowls per person, per visit. Historically, the holiday commemorates the Mexican army's victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. But now Cinco de Mayo has grown into a day that celebrates many facets of Mexican culture, particularly the country's culinary feats. Guzman y Gomez has 40 Queensland locations, to find your closest, head to the website.
Among the English language's best phrases, 'all you can eat' ranks up there with the best of them. It'd sound great in any language, of course, and you might hear it in German over the weekend of Saturday, March 30 and Sunday, March 31 — aka 'so viel du essen kannst'. Specifically, you might hear either version at Munich Brauhaus, The Bavarian and the Bavarian Beerhaus, which are all offering an appropriate stuff-your-face deal. For a two-hour sitting, you can tuck into as many schnitzels as you can stomach. Served on a platter, there are three varieties on offer: the uber schnitzel, which is decked out with rocket, semi-dried tomato and parmesan; the jager schnitzel, as topped with wild mushroom ragu; and the good ol' parmigiana, which obviously comes with melted mozzarella, tomato sauce and ham. Talk about good schnitt. The special costs $35 per person, also includes unlimited mashed potato and potato salad — yep, both hot and cold spuds — and is available for bookings of at least two people. You do need to book, however, so gather the gang, get planning, and make a date with a German beer house in Bowen Hills, South Bank, Chermside or on Eagle Street.
So, you're the eager kind of bastard (not the Snow type, mind you) who likes to throw spoilers in the face of your lessers? Lucky for you, the Game of Thrones edition of Man vs Bear trivia is here, so you'll be able to use that smug mouth to win. Or die. Lovers of the books and returning TV series should make a burger date with Fritzenberger, with GoT trivia nights happening at the Petrie Terrace bar and eatery on Thursday, April 4 and then over at Wilston on Friday, April 5. Costume is not mandatory, but that's part of the fun. White walkers, maesters, red priests, naked extras and dung-faced peasants will also most likely be in abundance, so if you really want to impress you'll need to think outside the boxset (someone had better turn up as the animated map of the opening credits, is what we're saying here). Food and drink will be available for purchase, and a host of prizes are on offer. If you're keener than a Stark heading back to Winterfell, team registration via the Man vs Bear website is necessary. And don't delay — it's winter soon.
Among the English language's best phrases, 'all you can eat' ranks up there with the best of them. It'd sound great in any language, of course, and you might hear it in German on Monday, May 6 — aka 'so viel du essen kannst'. Specifically, you might hear either version at Munich Brauhaus, which is offering an appropriate stuff-your-face deal as part of its first birthday shenanigans. For a two-hour sitting, you can tuck into as many schnitzels as you can stomach. Served on a platter, there are three varieties on offer: the uber schnitzel, which is decked out with rocket, semi-dried tomato and parmesan; the jager schnitzel, as topped with wild mushroom ragu; and the good ol' parmigiana, which obviously comes with melted mozzarella, tomato sauce and ham. Talk about good schnitt. The special costs $35 per person, also includes unlimited mashed potato and potato salad — yep, both hot and cold spuds — and is available for bookings of at least two people. You do need to book, however, so gather the gang, get planning, and make a date with a German beer house in South Bank.
The 90s were great. That shouldn't be a controversial opinion. Whether you lived through them or have spent the last couple of decades wishing you did — aka binging on 90s pop culture — this late-night shindig at The Foundry will indulge your retro urges. Drinks, tunes, fashion: expect all of the above at the No Scrubs: 90s and Early 00s party from 11pm on Saturday, May 18. Of course, it's up to you to make sure the clothing side of thing is covered, and to get into the spirit of the party. If you want to use Mariah Carey as a style icon, it'd be fitting. Expect to unleash your inner Spice Girl and Backstreet Boy too. TLC, Destiny's Child, Savage Garden, Usher, Blink-182, No Doubt — we'd keep listing artists, but you all know what you're getting yourselves into. Tickets are $12.25 online, with the fun running through until 3am
No one really knows when alcohol-loving humans first started mixing their booze with other ingredients, but we do know when they first started referring to the resulting concoctions as cocktails. It was in 1806, so more than 200 years ago. There's some food for thought next time you mix up or knock back a drink — or for when you're making the most of Jade Buddha's upcoming cocktail markets. What's a cocktail market? A chance to try plenty of different types, all in sample-sized tastes so you really can wet your lips with more than a few. The event will serve up plenty of classics and you can sip them, all from 6–8pm on Saturday, April 20. While entry to the riverside bar is free, $25 will get you ten cocktail tickets, plus access to a selection of matching canapes. And it's worth remembering the golden rule of cocktails: they always taste better when you're drinking them with other people, so gather the gang. Images: Jade Buddha.
Little Valley, Fortitude Valley's late-night, Chinese-influenced eatery, already boasts ex-Rick Shores head chef Jake Pregnell in its kitchen. As part of its new culinary series, it's also bringing in some additional cooking firepower. Collab is just what it sounds like — a chance to welcome guest chefs into the fold for a one-night, multi-course feast — and it's getting the series started with current Rick Shores head honcho James Brady. Yes, Burleigh Heads' finest is making his way up to Brisbane on Tuesday, May 16, teaming up with Pregnell for four courses of deliciousness (including canapes) and bringing the fruits of his recent five-country trip from Asia with him. It'll be the first time that the duo has worked together, and they have quite the menu on offer — think roasted Moreton Bay bugs, suckling pig porchetta, pickled and smoked oysters, and blood mousse with pork crackling. Two sittings are available, at 6pm and 8pm, and two packages are on the cards as well. You can tuck into the feast for $88 a head, or pair it all with four glasses of matched Latta Vino wines for $132 per person. Bookings are essential by contacting the venue. Image: Adam Hunter.
Start your long weekend with an extra spring in your step — and an extra-special cup of coffee. Every year when Good Friday rolls around, Bunker Coffee dedicates the day to damn good caffeinated brews, and 2019 is no different. Well, it is different in one significant way. This year, the jolt-inducing beverages will be flowing at Bessa Coffee on Little Cribb Street instead. From 7am on Friday, April 19, the fellow Milton hangout will be whipping up a black coffee menu that'll have you buzzed until Easter. (Don't worry, cuppas will be available in different sizes, so you will be able to sleep — and try them all.) On the Black Coffee Friday lineup is brews by Wood & Co, Five Senses, Sample and Small Batch, as well as coffee beer and a ping pong competition. As for a soundtrack, that'll come courtesy of The Beau Jorgenson Trio from 8am–11am. Who said public holidays were for sleeping in?
Sneaker fiends, it's time to make some space in your wardrobe. Well, some more space if we're being completely honest. You've probably stuffed every possible spare nook and cranny with your overflowing collection of kicks, but here's hoping there's room for a few extra shoes — because you probably won't leave Brisbane's new sneaker showcase empty-handed. If you're wondering just how seriously It's More Than Just Sneakers takes its subject, the answer is right there in the name. If you're wondering what's in store, picture a day filled with oh-so-many runners to browse, buy and ogle. There'll also be other sneaker-related merchandise to tempt your wallet, plus DJs spinning tunes. It all goes down from 11am–3pm on Saturday, August 24 at Cupo on McLachlan Street in Fortitude Valley, and entry costs $5. If you buy online in advance, you'll also score three raffle tickets — which could be your key to even more sneaker goodness.
If there's one thing that Walter's Steakhouse and Bar isn't short on, it's wine. That's not the only thing the Alice Street venue boasts in abundance, but you won't go thirsty here. Still, maybe you've tasted your way through all of the usual vinos and you're keen for something different — a new drop, a rare release, a unique style or the kind of tipple that has (or deserves) a cult following. Every Tuesday from 5pm, Walter's has just the answer, and it's called The Limited. Whether you're dropping by for a post-work glass or settling in for dinner later, the CBD spot hosts a weekly cellar door that'll allow you to sip and sample new wines. Even better — the range changes every week, so you can expand your wine horizons on a regular basis. Basket Range, Bruno Rocca, Journey Wines and Michael Hall Wines are just some of the brands that've been thrust into the Walter's spotlight previously. Obviously, there's plenty more where they came from. Image: Walter's Steakhouse and Bar.
Ever since El Camino Cantina arrived in town, the eatery's little patch of Bowen Hills has basically become a constant party. When a place boasts eight slushie machines pumping out frozen margaritas, that's completely understandable. When it serves up cheap tacos every week, well, who doesn't want to keep on celebrating? On Sunday, March 24, the Tex-Mex joint is upping the ante at its King Street digs — and this time, it's slinging free bites and pouring tequila. Drop by by from 4pm to nab two free tacos, sip a margarita on arrival and taste a few new Jose Cuervo cocktails. Then, hit the dance floor to make some shapes. To head along to this afternoon party, you will need to join El Camino Cantina's Amigos club; however that's free as well. There'll also be a giant piñata waiting for you to take a swing, plus cocktails to wet your whistle.
For two days each May, most of Brisbane heads to Musgrave Park to pretend they're in the Mediterranean. Yes, it's Paniyiri time again, with the city's massive Greek festival taking over West End with quite the array of food, drink, partying and more. There's a reason that more than two million people have gone along over the past four decades. In the event's massive 43rd year on Saturday, May 18 and Sunday, May 19, expect the usual array of Greek revelry — grapes to stomp, coffee to sip and plates to smash, plus TV stars to rub shoulders with and cooking demonstrations to watch, too. And, it wouldn't be Paniyiri without everyone's favourite entertaining displays. If dancing is more your style, watch Greek Dancing with the Stars or catch the Hellenic dancers. If devouring as much as you can is your idea of fun, take part in the festival's regular food contests. Can you eat more olives or honey puffs than anyone else? Here's your chance to find out. Because you're never too old to try new things, last year's Paniyiri introduced a Santorini lounge bar, designed to make you think you're thousands of kilometres away — so here's hoping it makes a return. Either way, there'll be more than 30 authentic Greek food stalls, plus art displays, traditional and modern music, and fun extending over to the Greek Club. Tickets are on sale now, with both one-day ($12) and weekend-long ($20) options on offer. And, as always, there'll be an abundance of haloumi, calamari and dolmades as well. Arrive hungry.
A new fish 'n' chippery has sum into Kangaroo Point, and it's bring a new series of seafood dinners with it. One Fish Two Fish is now home to Red Fish Blue Fish, because why not keep the Dr Seuss theme going? Red Fish Blue Fish will welcome well-known chefs into the Main Street eatery's kitchen, pairing them up and asking them to cook up a storm. Opposite One Fish Two Fish's own head chef Daniel Miletic, Ben Williamson will be responsible for the first feast on Wednesday, April 10 — putting the skills that made him such a hit at Gerard's Bistro, where he's just finished up, to good use. Specifically, Williamson's fishy meal will feature a shared banquet menu across three courses, each with matching beverages. It all starts with an apple pie old fashioned. Next, there's red mullet, mackerel and confit fish with toast, as accompanied by 2017 Spinifex Ugni Blanc. Then, attendees can tuck into a New Orleans-style crawfish boil with yabbies, corn smoked butter, Carolina corn bread, shrimp gritz and collard greens, paired with 2014 Verget Macon Bussieres Vignes de Montbrison. To top it all off, dessert comes in the form of pecan pie ice cream with moonshine sauce, plus a glass of 1987 Toro Albala Don PX Gran Reserva. Tickets cost $89 per person, and the dinner kicks off at at 6.45pm for a 7pm sitting.
If Wes Anderson was to rove his hyper-stylised gaze over everyday British life, the result might look like Sometimes Always Never. If he transplanted his fondness for melancholy family dysfunction to Merseyside, it could resemble this grief-fuelled drama, too. And if the acclaimed auteur ever decided to set his sights on the game of Scrabble, the end product might also share much in common with Carl Hunter's debut stint as a feature filmmaker. To the director's immense credit, this elegant and tender movie always feels like a relative of Anderson's work instead of an imitation — a kindred spirit with evident similarities, but bearing its own sensibilities. Sometimes working with noticeably exaggerated backgrounds, always demonstrating a flair for quirkiness and precision in tandem, and never overplaying his aesthetic approach, Hunter turns Sometimes Always Never into a visual playground. Every stylistic choice reflects the inner states of the film's characters, with the first-timer's images doubling as an imaginative escape. Even when the movie merely watches the fashionable but forlorn Alan (Bill Nighy) wandering along a beachfront, takes him on a country road trip with his silently resentful son Peter (Sam Riley), or spies more than a few folks slinging Scrabble tiles, it does so with a curious and perceptive eye. Hunter understands the creative truth that sits at the heart of whimsy, surrealism and flights of fantasy, and at the heart of this picture as well: that finding a little magic in ordinary surroundings is a simple but effective coping mechanism. A retired tailor who hasn't lost his sense of style, Alan has plenty of worries that he'd happily avoid. His relationship with Peter is cordial but strained, his other son disappeared without a trace years earlier and, thanks to his preferred pastime, he'd rather work his charms on words than people. When a development in the missing person case doesn't turn out as hoped, Alan is caught at a crossroads. He can unofficially move into Peter's house, play nice with his daughter-in-law (Alice Lowe) and teenage grandson (Louis Healy), and keep deploying Scrabble as a distraction, or he can face his woes, stop wallowing on what he's lost and appreciate what he has left. Whether it's played casually between friends and family or competitively with money at stake, Scrabble requires a combination of inventiveness and rigour. A willingness to take risks is just as important as an extensive vocabulary — and although Alan knows this all too well, he's slow to apply the same thinking to his world in general. While Frank Cottrell Boyce's screenplay embraces life's troubles as much as its joys, it's never less than a pleasure to watch Something Always Never run its course. Indeed, there's an entrancing power to the movie's story and mood, with both acknowledging the many ways that grief can leave an imprint. Sometimes the film's sentiments prove a little too neat, but that's the exception rather than the rule. Intricate and vivid even when painted in subdued colours, Hunter's eye-catching imagery helps considerably, immersing viewers in the movie's distinctive tone and narrative realm. But pretty pictures can't pierce the heart quite like a slate of excellent performances, which Something Always Never boasts in spades. It's a testament to Nighy's talents that the veteran actor retains his familiar vibe, yet completely inhabits his character. It's a testament to Riley, Lowe and virtual newcomer Healy that they more than hold their own against their experienced co-star, as do fellow supports Jenny Agutter and Tim McInnerny. Among all of the film's astute elements, the great work of its cast ranks among the most crucial. You can't win at Scrabble without playing multiple hands, and you can't make an eccentric, insightful treatise on mourning and moving on without the handiwork of multiple players. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=22R-JQRov_U
In need of some new procrastination material? Well, you're in luck. Google image search 'Banff' and spend a few minutes (or half an hour) taking in the gorgeous pictures of snow-capped mountains, aqua water and towering pines. It's impossible to not daydream about holidaying somewhere far-flung and exciting while ogling these picture-perfect views, as we're sure you'll agree. Thankfully, from Monday, April 1 to Saturday, April 6, you'll have the opportunity to slip into this magical world without ever leaving Brisbane. Brisbane Powerhouse is once again hosting Banff Mountain Film Festival's 2018 tour — the event's latest stopover, after beginning back in 1976. Its stunning cinematography attracts film buffs and adventurers alike making the festival popular across the world today. Every November, hundreds of films enter the competition with the cream of the crop chosen to entertain and amaze festival goers. Some of the featured flicks battled it out in categories including Best Film on Mountain Sport, Best Film on Mountain Environment, Best Film on Mountain Culture, Best Film on Exploration and Adventure, People's Choice Award and more.
Since Seoul Bistro opened its doors in Sunnybank back in 2013, it has served up plenty of Japanese and Korean-inspired wings. Thanks to its all-you-can-eat wing buffet, they're the eatery's main attraction. Available in seven flavours, they keep coming until your stomach protests that it simply can't handle any more, with fries, garlic bread and iced tea also part of the buffet spread. To celebrate five years of slinging unlimited wings, the Turton Street spot is giving everyone what they want — a bottomless feast of wings, obviously, but at half price. You'll need to dine in between 5–10pm on Saturday, December 8, and you'll nab the whole spread for $10.95 per person. You'll probably also need to arrive early, as Seoul Bistro isn't taking bookings for this special occasion. Don't worry — the eatery has also marked their fifth birthday by opening an expanding dining area, doubling its original space. Spanning both indoors and outdoors, it now seats more than 100 people. Now, to decide whether you want crispy fried, sweet 'n' spicy, honey soy, honey wasabi, peri peri, buffalo with blue cheese sauce, or hot 'n' spicy wings — or, of course, all of them.
We love gelato. You love gelato. Everyone loves gelato. But do you really appreciate it? Could you appreciate it more? When it comes to Gelato Messina's frosty sweet treats, you mightn't think that's possible. That's where their Gelato Appreciation Classes come in, however. For two hours on a Saturday morning — with Brisbane's next sessions scheduled for February 23 and March 23, 2019 — you'll get a double scoop of gelato goodness. We're talking about learning plus eating (don't worry, you'll actually get much, much, much more ice cream than just two serves). Taking care of the first part of the class, Messina's gelato wizards will talk you through the company's story, share their secrets and show you how it's all done. If you've ever wondered how they perfect their flavours or what goes in to making one of their delectable cakes, you're about to find out. Then comes the main event, and we speak from experience when we say you'll want to wear something loose and comfy. Eat your way through a four-course gelato degustation, with the menu specially created for each session. Taste as many of Messina's flavours as you can (you can even taste everything in the cabinet if you can manage it). Finally, take your pick of flavours for a take-home pack, and enjoy your weekend-long gelato coma. Tickets cost $160 per person, and are certain to book out fast.
The Gold Coast might be known for its sandy beaches, sizeable array of shopping strips and more than a couple of theme parks, but beyond all that lurks plenty of interesting and architecturally significant buildings. Luxe houses, towering residential buildings, historic theatres, the worlds first sand bypass system, a bathing pavilion that has been around for more than 80 years... the list goes on. It's a side of the Goldie most of us never ponder, and it's on display come Saturday, October 27. That's when Open House hits the sunny tourist spot, with 39 places welcoming anyone who'd like to take a sticky beak — and four walking tours shining a light on Mudgeeraba's heritage, Southport's art deco buildings, the landscape of the Federation Walk near Sea World, and all of the ins and outs of Pacific Fair. Remember your childhood dreams of getting to run rampant in a department store after hours? Or your grown-up version, involving IKEA? Think of this as a more realistic version, as well as a way to satisfy your architectural and design curiosity. As well as touring an array of the coast's top spaces, the program includes a free film and panel night on Saturday, October 20, exploring mid-century American and 60s Australian architecture.
Every week over at its Gasworks store, Salt Meats Cheese serves up all-you-can-eat pizza. Yes, it's as delicious as it sounds. If you're a vegan and you've been holding back, the eatery has you covered too. SMC mightn't ditch animal products as often, but when it does, it's something special. On Thursday, November 1, SMC's bottomless vegan pizza feast is back — and this time it includes unlimited vegan pasta as well. All you need to do is book a table in advance, with sittings available from 5pm. The pizza and pasta free-for-all will set you back a highly affordable $20, and while you'll also have to buy a drink, you can choose from both boozy and non-alcoholic options. For an extra $5, you can also opt for all-you-can-eat gluten-free vegan pizza as well. Finding decent slices that cater to dietary requirements is hard enough, let alone devouring as many as you feel like in one sitting, so expect this to be popular.
Rooftop and sky-high bars are no longer a novelty in Brisbane, but drinking cocktails while looking down on the city from 30 storeys above will always feel like something special. That's what's on offer at Sazerac, and has been since it opened a few years back — and if you still haven't made your way on up yet, the bar's Spring Soiree is your new excuse. Kicking off at 5.30pm on Thursday, October 18, the party is all about celebrating the season, with a suitably zesty cocktail menu ready for sipping. The event also doubles as an art show too, showcasing the work of Gold Coast artist Tracie Eaton. Her pieces will cover the bar's walls, and Eaton will also be onsite to do a stint of painting — of a model's body, live and in front of everyone. Entry is free, but you'll need to buy your beverages. And yes, we know what your thinking: your Thursday evening is definitely looking up.
The Brisbane International Film Festival is back again — with more than 100 films over 11 days, and with the Gallery of Modern Art at the helm. Organised by GOMA for the first time, this year's BIFF boasts local and international features, an array of special events and guests, and the Australian premiere of one of 2018's most controversial titles. The festival kicks off on Thursday, October 11 with the already-announced Celeste, an operatic drama set within north Queensland's lush greenery, before coming to close on Sunday, October 21 with Debra Granik's empathetic father-daughter drama Leave No Trace. In-between, high-profile highlights include Hotel by the River, the latest film by prolific Korean auteur Hong Sang-soo, and the Melissa McCarthy-starring Can You Ever Forgive Me?, a twisty effort about a real-life writing scandal. And then there's Lars Von Trier's ultra-violent The House That Jack Built, which is set in the 1970s, stars Matt Dillon as a serial killer, and prompted considerable walk-outs when it debuted at at Cannes. Other notable titles span festival circuit favourites such as Cannes Palme d'Or-winner Shoplifters, Nuri Bilge Ceylan's The Wild Pear Tree, and Jia Zhangke's crime romance Ash is the Purest White, plus Jafar Panahi's 3 Faces, Christian Petzold's Transit and the Paul Dano-directed Wildlife. This year's Berlinale Golden Bear winner Touch Me Not also features, as does the experimental and immersive Madeline's Madeline, the gloriously lurid Knife + Heart, and Guy Madden's entrancing The Green Fog. Or, there's M.I.A. documentary Matangi/Maya/ M.I.A., as well as a doco about the making of David Lynch's Blue Velvet — a nice remember that Lynch himself went to GOMA just a few years ago, in his first and only visit to Australia. On the local front, Australian standouts include the excellent Acute Misfortune, about artist Adam Cullen and journalist Erik Jensen; [CENSORED], featuring film clips excised by the country's censorship board between 1958–71; Terror Nullius, Soda Jerk's Aussie movie mashup; and Ghosthunter, which relays a strange tale that can only be true. Keeping things very local is The Picture Show Men, a documentary about the Sourris family — aka the folks behind New Farm Cinemas, the Elizabeth Picture Theatre and the potential new cinema slated for Red Hill. Events-wise, viewers can see documentary Ex Libris: The New York Public Library at a special screening at the State Library of Queensland, or catch a blend of virtual reality with live performance courtesy of the inventive thriller Frogman. Live music will accompany sessions of classics The Cameraman and The Passion of Joan of Arc, while the soundtracks of Japanese composer Teiji Ito will also be thrust into the spotlight. As previously unveiled, BIFF is training its gaze on movies either involving or considered inspiring by festival patrons Bruce Beresford and Sue Milliken — who've worked together on a number of titles, including this year's Ladies in Black. As well as featuring in an in-conversation session about their careers, they'll join Queensland Ballet Artistic Director Li Cunxin for a chat about Mao's Last Dancer, Beresford's adaption of Li's autobiography. The list goes on, with strands dedicated to African and Iranian cinema, plus a mystery movie in a secret location. With the latter, the details won't be revealed until you get there, but it's a new, buzz-worthy film that you won't see elsewhere in BIFF's 2018 program. The 2018 Brisbane International Film Festival will take place from October 11–21 at the Gallery of Modern Art, Event Cinemas Myer Centre, New Farm Cinemas, the Elizabeth Picture Theatre, Reading Cinemas Newmarket, the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, Brisbane Powerhouse and the State Library of Queensland.
Calling all architecture fans, folks keen to explore another side of Brisbane and just anyone who likes to peek behind closed doors. Open House Brisbane has something for all three when it returns for 2018 — showcasing the city's buildings and structures, letting you peer beyond their facades, and even welcoming you into nooks and crannies that aren't usually available to the public. Marking its ninth year in Brisbane, the event will feature 114 buildings across the weekend of October 13–14, spanning places that you probably walk past every day, spots you've always wondered about and everything in between. They include the Peters Ice Cream Factory, Boggo Road Gaol and the homes inside Indooroopilly's Walter Taylor Bridge, plus the Fort Lytton Military Precinct, Archerfield Airport and the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. A selection of architecturally distinctive residential buildings also feature, if you'd like a tour of other people's houses. Some of them even won gongs at this year's prestigious Houses Awards, like the greenery-filled Terrarium House — and many require bookings, so planning ahead is recommended. 2018's lineup also features a number of spaces that are new to the program, such as The Tivoli, Breakfast Creek Hotel, Woolloongabba's new Eden Lane, the Mt Crosby Pumping Station, Brisbane Powerhouse, Cloudland and the Empire Hotel. Fancy a wander in the yet-to-be-completed 90-storey Brisbane Skytower in Margaret Street — or Queen Street's luxe new 40-storey Spire Residences? They're on the bill. Open House Brisbane isn't just about walking through spaces, whether you mosey at your own leisure or take a guided tour. It also boasts a program of talks and events running from September 20. New this year is a special after-dark section, which takes place between October 2–13, complete with everything from history workshops in the Old Windmill Tower to a screening of Jaws 2 at the Spring Hill Baths.
First things first: it might be called the All Night Film Fest, but Metro Arts' upcoming movie marathon only runs for eight hours. Still, it will take you from afternoon to evening with a heap of flicks, and it'll be tomorrow when you get out. Also, the November 3 event will serve up five retro movies for free, which isn't something to sneeze at. No bookings are required — just turn up from 4pm and prepare to get comfy, all as part of the venue's returning Deathfest. Yes, Deathfest is a festival that's all about the end that comes for us all. Yes, All Night Film Fest is playing movies that contemplate the theme of death, all in different ways. It kicks off with Night of the Living Dead, aka the zombie classic that all other zombie films owe a huge debt to, then veers from the man-eating plants of Little Shop of Horrors, to the otherworldly thrills of Eternal Evil, to the comedy-horror of The Driller Killer. Finishing up the night is The Brain that Wouldn't Die, and yes, the title of this sci-fi effort is aptly descriptive.
When Wednesday afternoon rolls around, things are usually looking up. You're more than halfway through the week, for starters. Plus, next weekend is closer than the one that's just been. Yes, we know you're highly aware of this. At Elixir's new Wednesday Wing Night, you can keep the upward momentum going — by literally heading up to the Fortitude Valley rooftop bar. And, when you're there, you can devour a plate of highly affordable chicken wings, and pair it with a beer, wine or cocktail. Kicking off from 4pm on September 26, then running every week until the end of 2018, this hump day shindig is as simple as it sounds. And, really, isn't that what we all need when we've just made it through three days of the nine-to-five grind? Just make the trip up Ann Street, order 10 confit chicken wings for $10 — although you'll have to buy a beverage as well — and revel in poultry and brews under the stars.
Five years goes mighty fast when it's filled with food, markets and a great riverside vantage, as Eat Street Northshore now knows. After opening its doors back in 2013, the Hamilton spot is celebrating hitting half a decade of doing what it does best — that is, letting Brisbanites wander through its alleyways and feast on its spoils. Across the weekend of Friday, November 9 to Sunday, November 11, Eat Street's Fifth Birthday shindig will well and truly commemorate the occasion with a heap of bands, performances, food and fireworks, as well as the naming of the site's trawler. Whichever day you decide to stop by, you'll find a packed agenda of entertainment. You'll also find plenty to eat, of course. The three-day shenanigans run during Eat Street Northshore's usual weekend trading hours, so head along between 4–10pm on Friday and Saturday, and 12–8pm on Sunday. The usual entry price of $3 also applies, but bring your wallet for whatever you'll be consuming. Image: Eat Street Northshore.
In the words of the great man himself, there'll be plenty of people turning and facing the strange in Fortitude Valley on Saturday, November 10. That's what happens when Brisbane's now-annual multi-part Bowie bonanza returns to the city's streets, complete with some real cool cats. Event one: drinks, arcade games and a whole heap of David Bowie tunes at Netherworld from 5pm, where wearing your love for the great man will nab you discounts. Don't worry, events two and three will have you dancing in the streets in no time. Actually, the second part of the agenda is taking that literally. Bowies Down Brunswick is exactly what it sounds like, and it's groovy as. Dress up as your favourite version of the all-round icon (we love his early '80s 'Modern Love' stylings ourselves), meet outside Netherworld, offer a gold coin donation for the Cancer Council and prepare to dance your way down to The Osbourne with your fellow costumed Bowie lovers. Along the way, a selection of venues down will come alive with Bowie music, themed cocktails and more. Yep, it's basically a roaming Bowie party. Then there's the third and final shenanigans of the day, aka an Aladdin Sane 45th Anniversary Party. From 7pm, and for a $10 entry fee, you can dance to his hits and just continue to soak in the glorious that is one of the best performers to ever live. We can be heroes, indeed.
Calling all dumpling fiends — and wonton, gyoza, jiaozi, shishbarak and momo fans too. That most wonderful of encased foods and its many, many varieties are getting another whole day to call their own. Heading to Welcome to Bowen Hills from 12–9pm on Sunday, February 10, this showcase isn't just celebrating the types and flavours of Asia this time around. With 2019's Dumpling Day focusing on the theme of "follow the ancient Silk Road", you can expect a wealth of European mouthfuls as well. Dedicated to the tasty heated parcels that everyone loves, it's a day that's certain to end in food comas — and not only can you buy and devour your favourite kind (or kinds, lets be honest), but you can also learn how to make them. Workshops will cover potstickers with sauce, as well as soupy xiao long bao, with each costing $10 per person + booking fee. Overall entry into the event is free, as is the origami class that's also happening on the day. That said, registration is required even if you're simply planning on going along and eating. Last year, this dumpling extravaganza booked out in a weekend.
If you're looking for the shindig to end all shindigs this weekend, don't just head to the Valley — hop between three venues like you're taking the train to a wizarding school. With Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald hitting cinemas, Ric's, Marquee Bar and the RG are celebrating a certain magical franchise and its wondrous world at Brisbane's Biggest Wizard Party That Must Not Be Named. This isn't an official shindig, so the venues are keeping things vague. That said, if you've spend the last two decades consuming JK Rowling's writing and the films they've inspired, then this grown-up affair is for you. Entry is free, and there'll be eight bars and seven DJs getting into the enchanted spirit across the evening, with the fantastic fun taking place from 7pm on Saturday, November 17. Apart from drinking wizard-themed cocktails and something called 'wizard beer', you can also get cosy in the free photo booth and just generally magic the night away. Dressing up is encouraged — which people tend to do at these things, so consider yourself warned — and those donning a costume will be in the running for prizes.
First, there was the Weekend of Darkness. Then came the Weekend of Tartness — aka the sister festival The Scratch just had to have. Where the former has celebrated ales, porters, stouts and other tipples at the dark end of the spectrum since 2013, the latter cartwheels to the opposite end of the extreme spectrum of beer styles. If it is tart and tangy, it is likely to be on the menu. Over the two days of Saturday, December 8 and Sunday, December 9 — and at a special preview evening on Friday, December 7, too — more than 20 of the funkiest, sourest, most refreshing beers being produced in Australia and around the world will take over the taps of the Milton hangout. It might sound like a gimmick, but these biting brews have been around longer than you might think. In fact, historically, all beers used to be sour. Drinking is only part of the fun, with tasty food and a pumping soundtrack adding to the atmosphere. And as for what you'll be drinking, keep an eye on the event's Facebook page.
