There really is a festival dedicated to everything you can think of. We've said it before, and we know we'll say it again. Still, given that Redcliffe has a two-day fest dedicated to flying kites, we know that the statement is accurate. Yep, it's the event your inner seven-year-old will love — and, let's be honest, your adult self will too. It's a breezy way to spend the weekend, that's for sure. It's also a celebration of the simple pleasure of letting the wind catch a brightly coloured combination of wood, string and fabric, and then watching it soar. Running across Saturday, June 15 and Sunday, June 16 in Pelican Park at Clontarf, KiteFest is exactly what you make of it, whether something peaceful or action-packed is on your personal agenda. If you just want to stare at the sky, you can do that. If you want to browse market stalls, listen to live music, hop on a few carnival rides, watch roving performers and more — including world-class professional kite flyers, high-flying fly board performers, back-flipping sky skis and high-speed jet ski routines — you can do that too. Image: Redcliffe KiteFest.
When it comes to food events, there's nothing quite like the Sunnybank $2 Food Trail. It's all there in the name, with the Brisbane suburb's shopping hub becoming a diner's delight in the most affordable fashion. Think of it as the ultimate self-guided foodie adventure, for nothing more than spare change — and with around 22,000 people taking part. So how does it work? Between 2–8pm on Saturday, June 22, you'll walk between a heap of local cafes and restaurants, all at your own pace. Last year, more than 45 eateries took part. From chicken katsu and wontons to mochi ice cream and bubble tea, every participating eatery will feature a range of authentic Asian cuisines. You'll feast on Chinese, Japanese, Hong Kong-style, Vietnamese, Korean and Taiwanese dishes, and you'll only pay $2 per tasting plate. With such an array of steaming soups and sizzling stir-fries on offer, we don't recommend eating lunch first; in fact, you'd best arrive feeling as hungry as possible. Snacking on signature dishes is the main course — or several — but there's also plenty of non-edible appetisers, too. Enjoy some live music, watch lion dancers and and check out the roaming entertainment as you feast and wander, adding the perfect garnish to every meal by setting the mood. Image: Sunnybank $2 Food Trail.
With its latest film festival, Dendy Coorparoo isn't reaching for the stars — instead, it's happy with making it to the moon. Celebrating 50 years since the lunar landing, as everywhere in town seems to be, the cinema chain is screening a heap of flicks about the Earth's only natural satellite. Love in-depth documentaries? Twisty sci-fi? Feel-good dramas? They're all on the lineup. The newest movie on the bill is Apollo 11, aka the latest doco to ponder the enormous feat of sending humanity where it had never gone before. Naturally, it's worth seeing on a big screen. Other highlights include Duncan Jones' Moon, starring Sam Rockwell as a man working at a lunar base; Aussie comedy The Dish, about the Parkes Radio Telescope's role in broadcasting the huge event; and Ryan Gosling-starring Neil Armstrong biopic First Man. You can also explore the impact that three women had on the mission thanks to Hidden Figures, and relive Apollo 13's struggles in the Tom Hanks film of the same name. Thanks to documentaries Moonscape, Moonwalk One, The Other Side of the Moon and Armstrong, the list goes on, with the Moon Film Festival running from Tuesday, July 16 to Wednesday, July 24. Times and dates for each individual flick vary, so start planning if you're keen on looking up while looking at a cinema screen.
When it comes to space, there's never a bad night to peer at the heavens; however this July might just be a better time than most. Unless you've been trapped under a lunar rock, you'll know that this month marks 50 years since the Apollo 11 mission landed on the moon, heralding humanity's first small steps and giant leaps on the Earth's only natural satellite. To celebrate — and to just get Brisbanites staring at the sky anyway — Australian Geographic is hosting stargazing nights at various stores. When you're done with the 9–5 grind on Thursday, July 11, just head along to Westfield Carindale, Garden City or Springfield Lakes and prepare to look up. No bookings are necessary. Simply make your way to your closest spot, take a gander through a few telescopes, chat to experts, and learn more about everything from space photography to star guides. Times and locations vary at each shopping centre — you'll be staring up from a site outside, obviously, including from the car park rooftop if you're going to Chermside.
America's supposed home of little green men has been getting a significant amount of attention lately, all thanks to a joke proposition to storm the highly classified US Air Force base. If you've always wondered what goes on at Area 51, have more than a little interest in extraterrestrials and would rather put your efforts into dancing, then there's an alternative to playing along with the highly publicised gag. Instead, Brisbanites can head to The Valley Drive In's Area 51 Party. Being held on the same date as the satirical US raid, this three-hour celebration will scratch your otherworldly itch with a combination of out-of-this-world theming, a UV light show and plenty of tunes, all taking over the venue's huge outdoor stage. Sure, it's not the middle of the desert, but doesn't embracing this kind of shindig require more than a little bit of imagination? Fittingly, there'll also be a Daft Punk appreciation set, because who better to dance to at this type of party? An Alien vs Predator DJ set might just be on the cards — and if it comes down to a battle, we think the xenomorph will mean business. Image: The Valley Drive In.
Food. Drinks. Music. Doggos. It's a recipe for a great Friday evening, and it's what's on offer at The Sunset Social. Every fortnight, Davies Park welcomes stalls, street food, live performers, beverages and some fun for the family. That means that littlies can have fun on the jumping castle, at the animal farm, or playing giant Jenga and Connect 4 — and the adults with them, of course. On July 19, the West End get-together will boast an extra reason to drop by, all thanks to a Christmas in July celebration. As well as food trucks, there'll be other themed bites, mulled wine, Christmas-inspired beverages and a live choir. Otherwise, the usual applies. The event is fully licensed and completely pet-friendly, with the likes of The Roaming Pig, Gelato-a-Go-Go, Flavours of Eataly, Shanks' A Lot and Wild Rissole usually found among the vendors. Drop by from 5–9pm for a relaxing end to the working week. Plus, entry is free, which means you'll have more cash for everything else.
It only took one song for The Spice Girls to become a hit — and what a hit they became. Since you started reading this article, one of their songs has become stuck in your head, hasn't it? If you wannabe our lover, you'll admit it. In fact, we're guessing that your toes still tap whenever you hear a Spice Girls tune. And they went into overdrive when the group reformed and teased a potential Australian tour, too. There's no need to contain your Spice love at Black Bear Lodge's latest event. It is an appreciation evening celebrating all things spice all night — and playing all of their perky, catchy pop tunes. The only response to news of such a Spice-tastic shindig? Say you'll be there, of course. Dressing like Posh, Baby, Sporty, Scary or Ginger isn't required, but you know plenty of folks probably will anyway. Head along from 8pm on Thursday, June 27. Entry is free.
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 returning 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 4–8pm on Friday, June 28. While entry to the riverside bar is free, $40 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.
For the past few years, the One Day crew has been hitting the road, bringing its famous daytime block parties to live music venues around Australia. Now it's time for another round, with DJs from the beloved Sydney hip hop collective bouncing back to Brisbane for a One Day Sundays session on June 16. Taking place at — and taking over — X Cargo, One Day Sundays will see the One Day crew team up with local DJs and artists as they roll through the Fortitude Valley shipping container hangout. Expect food, booze, live graffiti and a whole bunch of hip hop, with Adit and Lupi, Sir Likwish, Cheq, Shyne and Finehouse on the bill. Even better — this day-long shindig is free, because the best things are as the song goes. Bring your wallet to grab a few drinks, as well as a bite to eat. Making shapes is hungry and thirsty work, after all.
Sick of looking at the same old walls? In dire need of some creative new threads? Eager to find a few crafty trinkets to pop around the house? Desperately keen for some new reading material? From prints and clothing to homewares and zines, Hidden Gems Arts Fair is bringing a heap of arty pieces to Metro Arts. The new one-day pop-up is all about showcasing local artists, businesses and entrepreneurs, which means that heading along helps a creative Brisbanite — and helps your wardrobe, empty picture frames and waning reading pile. Illustrator Sonya Kate, Brissie publication Kindred, Chloe and the Paper Pots' recycled paper pots and Cactei's fashions are just some of the items vying for your attention. Just head up to level four at 109 Edward Street in the CBD, with the market running on Sunday, May 19 from 10am-4pm. As well as plenty of stuff to buy, there'll also be live music as well. As for entry, it'll set you back $2. Image: Metro Arts.
That soothing feeling that sweeps over you when you spy a cute canine, spend too much time watching internet cat videos or even just spot a picture of a newborn animal — that's the feeling at the heart of Australia's newest wellness sessions. Sure, you've been to kitten yoga and puppy pilates, and they're both great. But we're guessing that you haven't tried meditating with baby goats or getting mindful with soft, cuddly lambs. Currently held in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast, attendees at Karmably's classes attempt to find inner bliss while they're surrounded by rescued baby farm animals. In short, it's the best way to de-stress when life's got your goat. After all, who can remain overwhelmed, exhausted or annoyed when they're sharing their chill-out session with actual goats? The classes focus on relaxation techniques, like Breathe In & Bleat Out, which gives you an idea of just what's in store. Those heading along can expect three parts to the session: mindful stretching, meditation and snuggling the four-legged participants. If you're wondering where the concept came from, it was inspired by organiser Berenice Tan's own experiences trying to find something other than the usual mindfulness classes within Australia. Unimpressed with the options already available, she flew to Los Angeles, New York and San Francisco "and experienced every meditation class under the sun," she explains. "Funnily enough, I heard about goat yoga and laughed it off as something ridiculous I wasn't interested in trying." Upon returning to Brisbane, Tan began to research animal therapy and, after learning of the benefits (and realising that everyone loves cute critters), her sessions with goats, lambs and even piglets were born. The bliss goes both ways, too — with Karmably not only helping humans to relax in a fun manner, but also assisting animals in need. Tan works with sanctuaries, rescue centres, and organisations such as Harmony Hooves Healing Hearts, Brisbane Pony Parties and My Little Farm Friends. They're all outfits that raise baby creatures who have either been rejected by their mothers or lost their mums in other ways, and hand-rear them until they can be adopted out as pets to families who live on suitable properties. After setting up shop last year, classes are already selling out months in advance — but there's currently spaces for the latest Brissie session at 2.30pm on Saturday, July 13. The calming cuteness takes place at Bend and Fly Yoga in West End.
Whether it's turned into a rave, accompanied by plenty of booze or features music instead of numbers, bingo isn't just a game for your nan. But, even if you've been making the rounds of Brisbane's various new versions of this old-school pastime, you probably haven't given loteria a whirl. It's the traditional Mexican take on the same kind of fun, but it uses pictures. Come Thursday, June 27 — and monthly afterwards — Bowen Hills' El Camino Cantina is the place to play, so get ready to get matching. And drinking, because margaritas are on the menu too. While the game starts at 6pm, if you arrive early (between 4–6pm), your frosty drink will only cost $7.50. Thursdays are also half-price fajita day, should you be feeling peckish. Loteria itself is free to play, although bookings are required. If you're wondering exactly how you play, you'll be asked to mark off four pictures in a row on your card, with each corresponding to an image from a quirky Mexican deck. Once you've stamped your sheet, you need to yell "loteria", of course. As for prizes, you could nab restaurant voucher, bottle of Jose Cuervo or a t-shirt.
Sweet-toothed Queenslanders, rejoice. Australia's dessert museum is returning for a second round of sugary fun this winter. After doing the rounds of the country over the past year, Sugar Republic is heading to the Gold Coast for four sweet weeks, complete with three huge zones, colourful installations and free desserts. This time, the pop-up is taking over a trio of spaces at Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, complete with a bubblegum pink ball pit, a giant giant birthday cake, a sweets-inspired neon installation, a confetti shower and a liquorice playroom (the sugary list goes on and on). There'll also be a swimming pool filled with giant sprinkles, as well as a human-sized gumball machine. Yes, it sounds like the kind of place that Willy Wonka might own. Throughout the colourful exhibition, you'll find many edible treats, including free candy samples, free soft serve ice cream and free fairy floss. Just don't tell your dentist. Worried the installation will be filled with littlies? It's also opening on Friday and Saturday nights for adults only — so you can jump in the pit without fear of crushing a small one. Sugar Republic will pop up at Pacific Fair from Sunday, June 30, and run through until Sunday, June 28. Times vary daily, with the installation open every Thursday–Sunday, plus Mondays and Tuesdays during the school holidays. Images: Lucas Dawson and Sherbet Birdie Photography.
Sometimes, even the most adventurous among us need a little push, a dash of motivation or some extra incentive to take a particular leap. So you've always wanted to wander around southeast Queensland's Scenic Rim region, but have never found the time? Well, consider the area's annual Eat Local Week all the reason you need. If exploring, eating and drinking can't get you in the car and down the highway, then nothing can. Unsurprisingly, that's just the big-picture view of this nine-day festival. Promoting Scenic Rim produce and the people behind it, the program includes everything from a winter harvest festival, olive grove tastings, ice cream masterclasses and artisan markets to brewery banter, a day dedicated to street food, wine and tapas in a vineyard, and cheesemaking classes. Camel training, bush tucker, country cooking and a picnic in an alpaca farm are also on the bill — as is a festival at a bowls club. Basically, if it's an event in the Beaudesert, Boonah, Beechmont and Mt Barney area between Saturday, June 29 and Sunday, July 7, it's on the agenda. Image: Scenic Rim Eat Local Week
Thought bingo was for your nan? Think again. It's also for you — or perhaps, if she's a groovy gran, for the both of you. Hijacking the traditional format of bingo with raves, conga lines and lip sync battles, Bingo Loco is 50 percent one of those strange dreams you get after eating too much cheese and 50 percent just a walloping good time. Comedian Andrew Stanley plays MC, while confetti showers and smoke cannons go off throughout the night (perhaps wear your glasses). Bingo ravers will compete for ultimate glory (and prizes) over the course of three rounds. In between the traditional bingo games, you'll be expected to groove to classic 90s rave bangers, partake in dance-offs, battle others for lip sync queen titles. Basically, be prepared for many high-octane, energetic activities — gone are the days of simply raising your hand when you've got a full sheet of numbers. Doing your stretches and vocal warm-ups first are advised. You'll vie for prizes, which in the past have included Coachella tickets, mobility scooters (nan, listen up), boats and lawnmowers (maybe for your dad), among other goldmines. Bingo Loco has been running across the globe for a few years and now will trumpet its way around Australia once more, with proceeds going to the Make-A-Wish Foundation Australia. Bingo Loco will hit The Met on Saturday, June 1. Tickets cost $40 per person and can be purchased here.
International headline acts are fun and all, but if you like your festivals with a little more adrenaline, this one's for you. The inaugural Seal Rocks Adventure Festival is crashing onto the mid-NSW coast later this month. Descending on Seal Rocks Treachery Camp, about 90 minutes north of Newcastle, it's set to deliver a weekend of hands-on blood-pumping fun over the weekend of May 17–19. The program of this boutique BYO camping festival is jam-packed full of activities, balancing out an after-dark schedule of live tunes and film screenings. By day, you'll have the chance to battle your mates in an interactive game of Archery Attack, learn some new moves in a circus skills workshop, go deep with a free-diving short course, and flit between rock climbing, surfing, slacklining, yoga and zorbing — yep, this one involves crashing around a field in a giant bouncing bubble. There'll be a disco-themed 'doofercise' workout class to kick things off each morning, classes to teach you how to start fire with just a couple of sticks, and an ongoing challenge to see who can fit the most humans on a giant stand-up paddleboard. Booze is BYO, but vendors like The Perfect Paella, Dr Drool and Tim's on Treach will have pop-ups to help fuel your adventures — and a restaurant will pop-up on the Saturday night for a four-course Saturday feast. Or, you can boost your own cooking skills at a pizza making class. By night, there'll be moongazing tours and campfires, while the stage heats up with local acts like Thunder Fox, The Regime, Elaskia and Belle Badi. And if you're after more inspiration, there's the Adventure Film Festival, emceed by Alice King in the Talking Tent each night. Adult camping tickets clock in at $340, which gets you an entry pass, a campsite and access to as many of the weekend's activities as you can handle. Groups of mates and families are welcome, and capacity is capped at 500. There are glamping and cabins options, too, for those who want a little more comfort at the end of a long day of adventuring (and have extra cash to spare).
It's the studio that's given Brisbanites the gift of puppy pilates and kitten yoga; however with Stretch Yoga's community classes, it's sharing the love around. On Thursday nights in Holland Park and Sunday mornings in the CBD, sessions will only cost $6 — and all of the proceeds will be donated to a selection of charities. You'll benefit from bending and stretching for less than the cost of a glass of wine, which is perfect if you're a newcomer keen to finally try yoga, or you're just feeling a little less financial. Good causes will benefit, obviously. And Stretch Yoga's graduate instructors will benefit, as they'll be teaching the classes. The Holland Park sessions run from 7.30–8.30pm every Thursday evening, with the next sessions lined up for November 21 and 28, as well as December 5 and 12. If you're closer to the CBD, drop by from 8–9am on Sunday mornings, with classes on December 1, 8 and 15. Places are limited, so bookings are essential, with all yoga skill levels welcome. Image: Stretch Yoga. Updated November 18.
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 quite a few 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 11am on Saturday, June 29, that means food and drinks will be part of the fun as well. East by Pie Town and East By Middle East will be among those in the kitchen whipping up their best eats, while the usual coffee and tipples will be available, of course.
Calling all early birds — especially eager Brisbanites who don't getting mind getting their Saturdays started as soon as they possibly can. If you're not usually fond of rolling out of bed on a weekend before mid-morning hits (or possibly even later), then this could just be the energetic motivation you need to greet the day long before you usually would. Every Saturday from 7am, Woolloongabba's Eden Lane is playing host to free yoga classes, thanks to the precinct's Kiss The Berry store and fellow onsite spot Science of Fitness Platinum. The latter will be taking you through more than a few flow moves over a 60-minute session. As for the former, everyone who heads along will also receive a voucher to redeem on tasty bowls afterwards.. While the class is free, you will need to register in advance as spots are understandably limited. Then, just remember to set your alarm, head on over to Gibbon Street and bounce — and bend and stretch — into your weekend.
Trash Taco, the latest venture from the Lucky Egg crew, is serious about its titular dish. The Fortitude Valley spot doesn't serve enchiladas or burritos, or a whole menu of Mexican items. Along with a few snacks, it focuses on tacos. And, one day a week, it wants hungry Brisbanites to be serious about the eatery's main attraction, too — and tuck into as many as possible. That's where All-You-Can-Eat Taco Sundays come in. Head along between 5–9pm on the last day of the weekend, and you won't leave with an empty stomach. As long as you keep eating them, Trash Taco will keep cooking them. If you'd been looking for an excuse to drop by the new venue, which is located inside Warner Street bar Barbara, now you have one. Five varieties are available: pork, lamb, beef, vegetable and bean, all served with onion, coriander and salsa. The deal will cost you $20, although you might want to bring a few dollars extra to pair your endless taco feast with a beer, wine or cocktail. Yes, Barbara slings margaritas, if you really want to cap off the Trash Taco experience.
It has been a year since Ballistic opened their second Brisbane location and started pouring their brews in West End. The brewery doesn't really need a reason to celebrate — it's a brewery, so there's always a reason to say cheers to something — but this is as good an excuse as any. And, to make the shenanigans extra special, it's doubling as a throwback to the So Fresh era, and a barbecue as well. In other words, you know what you'll be drinking, listening to and eating at the free party, which kicks off at midday on Saturday, May 25. Bring your wallet to pay for your booze and food, including a few special concoctions. Fancy a fairy bread cocktails or a drunken spider? Of course you do. If you don your best 90s threads, you can also win a four-pack of Ballistic beer, so start scouring your wardrobe. And if you arrive early and manage to be one of the first 20 people through the door, you'll also nab a party bag. Image: Ballistic West End Alehouse & Kitchen.
It's birthday time at the Bavarian Beerhaus, with the Bowen Hills' drinking spot celebrating a year of slinging German food and booze on King Street. To mark the occasion, it's throwing a weekend-long party across Saturday, May 25 and Sunday, May 26. Prepare to eat, drink, toss sausages and hold steins. On the food lineup, you'll be able to tuck into 10-cent wings and $5 giant pretzels — or, if you buy a selected beverage between 4–6pm, grab some loaded fries, buffalo wings and mini dagwood dogs for free. On the fun lineup, you can enter a heap of food challenges. Can you scoff down more pretzels than anyone else? Chug more non-alcoholic beer? Feed yourself sausages using someone else's hands? Here's your chance to find out. If you're also wondering how well — and far — you can throw a snag, that's another contest. So is bobbing for apples, holding glasses, playing ping pong and competing in an egg-and-spoon race. Entry is free, with the festivities kicking off at midday each day. On Saturday, there'll also be live music and free cupcakes.
The perfect outfit could be out there, waiting for you. For the last few months, years or longer, it could've just been hanging in someone else's wardrobe. Isn't that the thrill that gets everyone heading to a secondhand market? We're all thinking the same thing: what if someone else's trash really is our very own treasure? Excess Baggage operates on that idea, filled with stalls and tables of pre-loved wares looking for a new home. If you're keen to pick up a bargain while browsing through fashion, homewares, books and more, then make a beeline to Paddington's BrisWest Centre. The secondhand sale runs from 9am–3pm on Saturday, August 24, with music setting the mood. And if all of that perusing makes you work up an appetite, there'll also be everyone's favourite market snack — a sausage sizzle.
Music and movies — if there's been a hot trend in cinema lately that doesn't involve superheroes, this is it. Of course, films about musicians, concerts and songs aren't new, and nor are flicks filled with tunes, but they've been on everyone's minds lately thanks to the likes of Bohemian Rhapsody, A Star Is Born, Rocketman and Yesterday. Getting in on the action, Palace Cinemas is doing what it does quite often, aka hosting a whole film festival dedicated to concept. At the Palace Touring: 2019 Music Film Festival, you'll get cosy in your seat, catch an ace movie and hear the speakers echo with fantastic music. Running at Brisbane's Palace James Street site from Thursday, August 1 to Wednesday, August 14, the inaugural fest will showcase a different film every night, with a range of genres — in terms of both movies and music — covered. Val Kilmer swaggers his way through The Doors: Final Cut on opening night, Anton Corbijn's black-and-white Joy Division biopic Control is also on the bill, and so are beloved hits such as Once, This Is Spinal Tap and Saturday Night Fever (on a Saturday night, obviously). On the doco front, you can also catch The Beatles: Eight Days a Week, 20 Feet From Stardom, Searching for Sugarman, Gurrumul, 20,000 Days on Earth and Amy, because the last few years have been stellar for music documentaries — or, head back to the 70s with Martin Scorsese's concert film The Last Waltz.
If you didn't already have plans from 10.30pm on Thursday, September 12, you do now. And if you did, change them — or factor sending a whole lotta love Queen Bey's way into your schedule. Reacting promptly, impulsively and passionately is just something Beyoncé inspires, and has been doing so for almost two decades. You probably don't even remember a time before Bey ruled our airwaves and screens — and thanks to Black Bear Lodge's latest appreciation night, you won't have to. There's no specific reason; the venue is just celebrating all things Bey, because it's just that drunk in love. We're guessing you can expect her solo tracks, and even some songs from her Destiny's Child days — plus all of the epic dance moves that go with them. You'll be feeling like Sasha Fierce, as well as crazy in love with the pop idol in the spotlight. The joint will be jumpin' jumpin', and we're not telling you what to drink to celebrate the occasion; however you might want to mix it with lemonade.
Between Thursday, August 8 and Saturday, August 24, wandering around West End is about to get a whole lot better. We're not dissing its usual eclectic vibe, or its bustling array of bars, shops and eateries — but when an art exhibition takes over an entire suburb, we're going to get excited. A biennial event, TRACE returns for 2019 with a fresh showcase of creative pieces popping up in unexpected places. Expect the 4101 postcode to be showered with artworks by Tony Albert, Vernon Ah Kee, George Gittoes, Natalya Hughes, Madeleine Kelly, Ross Manning, Judy Napangardi Watson, Sebastian Moody and Tyza Stewart, among others — with their paintings, drawings and the like gracing Avid Reader, Ralph's Garage, West End Bakery, Hong Lan Vietnamese Grocer, Jet Black Cat Records and more. In total, 34 artists, including one artist-in-residence, will display their work in 19 locations in Boundary and Vulture Streets. Quite a few of those folks should sound familiar, as many of them have ties to West End. Taking a stroll through the streets, ducking into local establishments and scoping out their work is just one way that you can support their love of the area, however, whether you mosey at your own leisure or join a TRACE walking tour. As well as the exhibition, TRACE features a silent auction, with some of the funds going back to the creatives, and the rest helping out community development organisation Community Plus+. To snatch up something for your own walls, just view the featured artworks online between Thursday, August 8 and Saturday, August 31, then place your bid, watch and wait. Beats getting mass-produced stock pics from IKEA, hands down.
Pre-loved fashion is the gift that keeps on giving; one person's sartorial trash really is another's stylish treasure, after all. Hopefully, you'll find the latter at Revive Fashion Festival. Yes, it's an event dedicated to all things vintage and secondhand — or a way to spread the pre-loved love. Yes, it's now in its third year, because celebrating all things old never gets old. Popping up at the Cultural Centre Forecourt at South Bank for one day only, Revive is a chance to grab a bargain and garner a heap of great outfit ideas all at once. The city's best best pre-loved and revived clothing stalls will be selling their wares at a pop-up market, but that's only part of the fun. Who doesn't want to watch a fashion parade filled with secondhand savvy, enjoy some live entertainment and feast on bites to eat from an array of the city's best food trucks as well? Taking place from 11am–7pm on Saturday, August 17, you can also get some sewing and style tips from the experts to ensure you really are making the most of your wardrobe.
How long did Charles Boyle spend 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? And which one of the latter duo has a twin? If you can answer all of the above — and name Captain Holt's dog, Terry's kids, Gina's dance troupe and Jake's favourite movie — then you're set for this 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, and is thankfully coming back for a seventh season. We'd keep asking Brooklyn Nine-Nine questions and dropping tidbits, but we'll save some for the big night. Every time evenings dedicated to B99 hits town, places are snapped up faster than Terry can snap open a tub of yoghurt. This time, you need to register in advance for Fritzenberger's trivia night at its Petrie Terrace joint, and then Wednesday, July 31 can be your night to shine (that can also be the title of your sex tape if you'd like). It all starts at 6.30pm at each eatery, and entry is free. Bring your wallet for burgs, obviously, plus beers. If all this sounds rather noice, get in quick as spots are limited.
It's been a big few years for fans of The Handmaid's Tale, whether you've been obsessed with Margaret Atwood's dystopian novel since before the Elisabeth Moss-starring television show or you just discovered all things Gilead back in 2017. There's something particularly special about 2019, however — 34 years after the original book, readers will finally be able to pore over Atwood's long-awaited sequel. To celebrate the arrival of The Testaments, and to just spend more time in The Handmaid's Tale's world in general, Avid Reader is hosting a one-off book club. Head along at 6pm on Tuesday, September 10 to chat about Offred, the handmaids, and the tale's unnerving relevance to life today, all over a glass of wine. The timing couldn't be more perfect, with The Handmaid's Tale Book Club taking place on the same day that The Testaments hits shelves. Blessed be the fruit, indeed. Tickets cost $10 to attend, $25 if you'd like to buy a copy of The Handmaid's Tale at the same time and $44.99 with a just-released copy of The Testaments.
After opening several German-themed beer halls around the city, plus a colourful Mexican cantina, Rockpool Dining Group continues to expand its Brisbane footprint — this time, with a European and American-inspired joint that specialises in wings. Named Winghaüs by Bavarian, seating 240 both inside and out, and headed to Edward Street in the CBD, the new concept is an offshoot of the hospitality empire's popular Bavarian spots. Opening on Saturday, September 28, it'll be the first venue in the country. If you're a fan of poultry, then you might want to drop by that day, especially if you like plenty of chook pieces for cheap. From the moment that Winghaüs opens at 12pm, you'll be able to nab some wings for ten cents each. You'll have just over two-and-a-half hours to tuck in, with the special on offer until the first point is scored in the day's AFL grand final — which starts at 2.30pm. Winghaüs' buffalo wings come with a choice of eight hot sauces and six dips, including teriyaki, blue cheese, ranch dressing, and honey and mustard.
It's been two years since the folks at La Macelleria came to a very sensible conclusion: the more gelaterias, the better. And if it feels like the frozen dairy joint has been on Montague Road forever, we have a simple explanation — time flies when you're eating all of the ice cream, naturally. To celebrate scooping up its frozen dairy wares in West End for the past 24 months, La Macelleria is giving everyone a gift. That gift is $2 gelato. You just need to drop by between 12–6pm on Saturday, September 21. There'll also be a special flavour available on the day — that's yet to be announced — but you won't have any trouble finding something that tempts your tastebuds. This is a place that serves up Italian-style choc chip, rum and raisin, ricotta with caramelised figs and roasted almonds with roasted coffee beans gelato regularly, after all.
They're taking the hobbits to Isengard at Palace Cinemas James Street again this spring, with one movie marathon to rule them all. Round up the Fellowship, stock up on lembas bread for sustenance and hide your finest pipe-weed from the Southfarthing for another sitting of all three of Peter Jackson's beloved OG Tolkien film adaptations. The venue's September marathon proved such a hit, it's doing it all over again on Sunday, October 20 — and yes, you'll be watching the trio of Lord of the Rings movies in their extended forms. Kicking off with The Fellowship of the Ring and ending with The Return of the King, this cave troll of a marathon clocks in at 686 minutes, starting the journey at 10am and including 20-minute breaks between each (for breakfast and second breakfast, if you will). If you make it to the final handful of endings, you can pat yourself on the back and smash a ringwraith screech at the nearest Fortitude Valley resident on your way home (note: do not actually screech at the residents). Without a ticket, expect at least one overenthusiastic cinema staff member to make an example of you, thundering "you shall not pass!" to raucous applause. So buy a ticket, precious, for $25 (or $20 if you're a Palace movie club member).
Any venue can serve up a brunch that goes on for hours, or so it seems given the sheer number of such mid-morning sessions across Brisbane. Cloudland's Brunch With Bite fits that mould, offering plenty of food as well as a bottomless booze option — but it also adds something a little different to the menu. Fancy getting a bit of camp drag comedy with your meal? Watching an uproarious game show? Belting out a tune while brunch rolls on? They're all on the bill at this banquet, with the lineup changing weekly, and hosts including Sellma Soul, Bebe Gunn and Vollie la Vont taking charge. Food-wise, you'll tuck into an Italian-inspired spread and nab a drink on arrival, all as part of your $45 ticket. The event kicks off at 11.30am, but if you're keen on two hours of two hours of bottomless spritzes, mimosas, bloody marys, select beers and sangria between 12–2pm, that's included with the $69 package. Updated February 4, 2020.
Chop Chop Chang's banquets hold a special place in many Brisbanites' stomachs, serving up a feast of the West End eatery's dishes over one delicious and affordable meal. But if you don't eat animal products, you probably haven't experienced these culinary delights — which is where the restaurant's vegan banquet comes in. On September 17 and 24, anyone looking for a more ethically conscious option can eat their way through six vegan courses for $35. If you missed out on past vegan banquets, don't make the same mistake this time — it's not always on offer. As for the menu, you'll start with lotus root chips before digging into a tasty spread. The likes of fresh tofu and coconut miang kham, king brown mushroom yakitori and a Thai yellow curry should all get your tastebuds salivating.
Keen to celebrate the sights, sounds and tastes of Thailand, but can't make the trip abroad at the moment? Whether you're lamenting your inability to head to southeast Asia, getting your fix in-between sight-seeing visits, or simply a fan of Thai culture, cuisine and traditions, the annual Brisbane Thai Festival has you covered from 10am–7pm on Sunday, September 14. The event is expected to attract more than 15,000 patrons, so you certainly won't be alone. Don't worry — with food, booze, performances and Thai boxing demonstrations on offer, there's plenty for everyone at Brisbane's largest Thai-focused event. Indulging in all the Massaman curries you can eat, iced teas you can drink and traditional dances you can watch is only part of the equation, of course. As run by the Thai-Australian Association of Queensland Inc, the festival aims to promote and strengthen ties and harmony between the Thai and Australian communities. By heading along, you'll not only get a feast of food and entertainment — you'll be doing your cross-cultural part.
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, September 21. 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
The tequila is always flowing at El Camino Cantina, with the King Street Mexican joint well-known for its margaritas. But, as anyone who loves the agave spirit knows, there's never a bad reason to keep pouring more — and International Tequila Day couldn't be a more perfect excuse. Happening on Wednesday, July 24, the commemorative date will see everyone's favourite tequila cocktail flying off the bar. When $7.50 margaritas are on the menu, that's bound to happen. Choose from the slushie or liquid form depending on your preference, and from four flavours: mango, strawberry, tropical and spicy (with Red Bull) and the regular ol' variety. Because the occasion falls on a Wednesday, you'll also be able to tuck into $2 tacos. Even better — this is an all-day affair, so if you have time for a few drinks over lunch, or can get away from work for a chilled afternoon, then you won't go thirsty.
What do John Williams' Star Wars theme, his music from the Harry Potter franchise, Howard Shore's Lord of the Rings score and Hans Zimmer's droning Inception tunes have in common? When you hear each and every one, they instantly transport you into the world of their respective films. That's what a good piece of movie music does — whether or not the accompanying images are playing in front of you. On Saturday, November 30, all of the above pieces will also echo through QPAC's Concert Hall, with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra putting on a Blockbuster Movie Music show. You won't be watching the relevant flicks, but rather soaking in their sounds as they're all played live. Other highlights include Danny Elfman's Batman theme, the work of Howard and Zimmer across Batman Begins and The Dark Knight, Alan Silvestri's ditties for The Avengers and even a bit of John Powell's finest from How To Train Your Dragon. QSO will be performing two concerts, at 2pm and 7.30pm.
First performed back in 1945, Benjamin Britten's Peter Grimes tells a tale of a fisherman, an English coastal village and a missing appearance. That storyline mightn't sound like something to sing about; however the acclaimed opera has been proving that notion wrong for more than 70 years. Considered one of the defining British operas of the 20th century, it's coming to Brisbane Festival on September 20 and 22, with Grammy-nominated Australian heldentenor Stuart Skelton making the trip back for what's shaping as a rousing, resounding staging. Coming to QPAC's Concert Hall, the production will also 18 soloists, the Opera Queensland Chorus and the Queensland Symphony Orchestra.
Every year, when Brisbane Festival rolls around, two things happen. Firstly, the city explodes with an array of arts, culture and music performances. Secondly, it explodes with colour and light thanks to a big riverside light show. In 2018, the latter is called #CelebrateBrisbane River of Light — and while hashtags in event names deserve the cringes that they instantly inspire, the actual combination of water fountains, lights and lasers will inspire awe. A free 10-minute show taking place at 6.30pm, 8pm and 9.30pm each night between September 8–29, it's designed to spin the traditional story of the dreaming serpent that created Brisbane's brown snake of a waterway. Catch it from the Arcadia precinct, on the South Bank Cultural Forecourt, over a few beverages.
Taking over the city during September, Brisbane Festival does many things. It gives everyone an excuse to devour entertaining cultural delights — and it serves up a new hangout. Actually, make that hangouts. Yes, Brisbane Festival's central hub offers multiple spaces in one. Revamping South Bank's Cultural Forecourt, Treasury Brisbane Arcadia boasts everything from pop-up food stalls to the spiegeltent to everything in between. Indeed, as well as offering a place to go when you need a wine, craft beer or food between shows, there's two places you'll want to check out. Stop by Divine for a dose of drag entertainment over a frosé, plus late-night DJs — or head to The Box for outdoor dancing and pop-up parties. Other events in Arcadia's vicinity include the House of Mirrors, Seance and a nightly light show, plus the feast of performances at The Courier-Mail Spiegeltent. That's where you'll catch many of the fest's headliners, including LIFE - THE SHOW, Tkay Maidza, Jen Cloher and the California Crooners Club.
The weather might be heating up in sunny Queensland, but that doesn't mean you can't all spend a day pretending you're somewhere much, much cooler. How does an imaginary visit to Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Estonia and Iceland sound? All you need to do is head along to the Scandinavian Festival Brisbane. Now in its seventh year, the annual showcase of countries with colder climates offers a smorgasbord of authentic food, entertainment and shopping that'll make you think you're on the other side of the world. Yes, the festival does include two of the things Scandinavian nations are best known for: Ikea and Lego. Taking place at Bowen Hills' Perry Park from 10am on Sunday, September 9, it also includes stalls serving up Swedish pastries, Finnish recycled products, Nordic homewares and other goodies, plus traditional folk dancing and music. 15,000 people attend each year, so arriving early is recommended — more Norwegian waffles, Swedish meatballs and Finnish beer for you.
If the words 'sharing feast' usually send you running, we bet we know why: you don't eat meat, animal products, nuts or something else, and trying to make sure you can actually enjoy the food is frequently harder than it should be. Once a month, vegans can put those fears aside at Covent Garden, with the West End gin joint serving up a vegan feasting evening. Spread over two sessions — 6–8pm and 8.15–10pm — the plant and floral wallpaper-filled hangout's Garden of Vegan will dish up four courses of vegetable-heavy dishes. It all starts with tapas of celeriac and artichoke cannelloni, plus chilled tomato consommé, before moving on to stacked mezze platters. Next, mains include king brown mushroom with garlic flowers and mushroom dust, and baked potatoes with spring onion, olive oil and herbs. As for dessert, expect banana bread, mango and coconut. That's just a sample of the food on offer on Thursday, October 11, with bookings taken for tables of two at $74 per couple — and last time, the event sold out, so reserving early is recommended. There'll also be Garden of Vegan cocktails available, though they'll cost you extra. Updated October 7.
If you're a fan of Nutella, then you likely live by one rule: when it comes to the chocolate-hazelnut spread, you can never have enough. Of course, just how you interpret that idea is up to you. Maybe you slather your bread with it every morning for breakfast. Perhaps you always opt for whichever Nutella dessert is on any given menu. Or, you could head down the highway for a dedicated Nutella Festival. Helensvale's NightQuarter is throwing the latter from 2–8pm on Saturday, September 15. We recommend arriving hungry. Entry costs $3 and you'll need to pay for whatever Nutella creations you'd like to eat or drink, but this fest is rather devoted to combining its favourite ingredient with, well, everything. On the sweet side, there's Nutella doughnuts, gelato, ice cream cookie sandwiches, churros, mousse and fudge. From the usually savoury camp, there's Nutella pizza, toasties, calzone and sliders, too. Drinks-wise, there'll be Nutella milkshakes, shots and cocktails. There's more to eat and drink — but if you're wondering what else there could possibly be, just think of a dish and imagine adding Nutella to it.
We're all sculptors. Don't believe us? If you've ever taken a bucket, filled it with sand, plonked it onto the shore and shaped it with your bare hands, then you've sculpted something. With that it mind, it makes sense that part of the Gold Coast would celebrate the art form on its beach — but there's more than just sandcastles on offer. Returning for its 16th outing from September 14 to 23, SWELL Sculpture Festival features everything from salvaged items to installations to small-scale sculptures, plus projection art, live music, guided twilight walks and artist talks as well. In total, the ten-day festival brings over 45 works to Currumbin Beach for an event that attracts more than 275,000 visitors each year. While most of the program is free and simply involves walking along the sand, if you'd like to spend some cash, you can also learn a few new skills. The ticketed lineup includes classes on life drawing, sculpting from reality and painting the landscape while you're out amongst it. Image: Rowly Emmett Photography.
You don't have to go to Tokyo to enjoy an immersive Japanese experience. You can, of course. You should — at some point. There's really nowhere else in the world quite like it. But if you're eager to eat like you're already there, watch performances and take part in cultural activities, you can save yourself the airfare at the Matsuri Japanese Festival. Your bank account will thank you, and you'll take care of that travel nagging envy for an afternoon. A one-day celebration coming to Mount Gravatt Showgrounds from 12–5pm on Saturday, September 8, it's Brisbane's own ode to the country that brought us sushi, katsu, yakitori, sake, matcha lattes and more. Expect to find more than a few things from that list on offer, and plenty of things to see and do as well. Admission is free and, like every great cultural festival, you can expect a little bit of everything that makes Japan so ace.
Salt House is a popular waterfront watering hole for locals seeking delicious cocktails by the sea. Marrying inspiration from a custom-built Argentinian wood-fired grill with fresh seafood and local fare, Salt House's menu aims to champion local produce and the exciting flavours of Tropical North Queensland. Sip on a refreshing rainforest sour packed with davidson plum jam before ordering the daily ceviche with pico de gallo and lime dressing, followed by mains like an aubergine coconut curry with malai kofta, dates and spiced yoghurt. If a seaside seafood feast is what you're craving, try the generous seafood sharing platter or the yellow curry loaded with mussels, local tiger prawns and wild barramundi.
Sushi is a great all-occasion meal — it suits for a quick lunch on the go, a last-minute takeaway dinner or casual catchup with a mate. And this Redcliffe joint will work for any of the above. When it comes to feasting, Sushi Nikko's fresh sushi will have you and your friends flipping a coin over the last piece. There's something on the menu for everyone from miso soup to rice bowls and everything in between. The sashimi and sushi bento box is deservedly popular and the spicy karaage chicken is a winner for those who like things a little fiery.
The age-old saying 'do one thing and do it well' was the thinking behind late-night haunt 5 Dogs. Hot dogs are its weapon of choice, and let's just say it has definitely perfected them. With six hot dogs on the menu — including smoked bratwurst and traditional kransky — 5 Dogs caters to every type of hot dog fiend. Yep, even the vegan kind. Enjoy all the good things about German sausages but make it meat-free with the vegan beer brat and vegan kielbasa (Polish sausage), both coming in at under $9 each. Served with sauerkraut, fried onions and your choice of sauces, these dogs pack an authentic punch. Be sure to get a side of chilli cheese fries or good ol' fries and gravy. Not keen on hot dogs? Opt for a chicken gravy roll instead. First image: Hennessy Trill
It's slime time on the big screen in Brisbane this spring. Expect toxic ooze, plenty of goo and even ectoplasm to feature at New Farm Cinemas, too. Continuing to prove that there's a film festival dedicated to everything, the River City's own BORLFF is back, but with a difference for its second year. In 2022, that acronym referred to the Brisbane Only Rotoscoped Lightning Film Festival. In 2023, it means the Brisbane Only Repulsive Liquids Film Festival. So, movie lovers hitting Brunswick Street from Friday, September 22–Sunday, October 1 won't be seeing flicks with hand-drawn lightning effects this time around. Instead, sludge and its fellow liquids are in the spotlight, as is viscera as well. And yes, there are enough features to flesh out a film fest that solely focuses on repulsive liquids — starting with not only an ooze-filled classic, but a film that comes with its own smells. BORLFF is opening its 2023 season with the world's most fearsome fighting team — or so the catchy theme tune goes — and their live-action 1990 film. At this session of the OG Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie, the audience will catch Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo and Raphael (and Sam Rockwell in a blink-or-you'll-miss-it part) in stink-o-vision. Everyone will receive scratch 'n' sniff cards, which they'll then use to emit appropriate scents as they watch. From there, the 11-film lineup is presenting themed double features on five nights. Most evenings will let you come along to just one session, other than the Troma lineup of The Toxic Avenger and Class of Nuke 'Em High — or you can get comfortable for the full oozy 80s, green gunk, sickly science and putrid pink experience. On the lineup: David Cronenberg's The Fly paired with John Carpenter's Prince of Darkness, complete with a Q&A with veteran special effects artist Chad Atkinson (The X-Files, Alien Resurrection, Starship Troopers) — and also experiments gone awry in Australia's own Body Melt (with director Philip Brophy in attendance) and the Frankenstein spin that is Re-Animator. Or, see plenty Kermit's hue in a new light in Japanese American co-production The Green Slime and fantasy-horror effort Troll 2, then go pink with 1988's The Blob remake and Ghostbusters II. BORLFF stems from Netherworld, Two Bit Movie Club — aka the regular cult and classic movie event that often screens at the arcade bar — and will also feature an art show via Feature Presentation that showcases new interpretations of movie posters for the fest's films. They're on display at the bar throughout September, and you can buy prints of them, too.
