Family Friendly Festivals around Brisbane
Whether you’re looking to start a new tradition, or simply looking to mix things up a little with a fun day out with family and friends, there are plenty of family friendly festivals to keep you entertained.
As the vibrant city of Brisbane comes alive with the spirit of celebration, families are spoilt for choice with an array of festivals designed to ignite imaginations and create unforgettable memories.
From the wide-eyed wonderment of the Moreton Bay Kids Festival to the cultural immersion of the Paniyiri Festival, and Woodford Folk Festival – the largest gathering of musicians in Australia, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Let’s go explore some of the most family-friendly events happening around Brisbane in 2024, offering endless opportunities for fun, learning, and connection.
Moreton Bay Kids Festival – March
Kicking off the year with boundless excitement, the Moreton Bay Kids Festival promises a day filled with family-friendly entertainment and endless fun. With five amazing worlds to explore, including free unlimited rides, live stage shows, educational displays, and wildlife encounters, children of all ages are sure to be bursting with excitement. Whether it’s unleashing their creativity in workshops or indulging in delicious treats from food trucks, this festival is a celebration of youth and wonderment that the whole family can enjoy.
World Science Festival – 19 to 26 March
The World Science Festival takes center stage, inviting families to embark on a journey of discovery and exploration. Embracing the theme of Thinkers and Dreamers, the 2024 program promises to push the boundaries of our understanding and inspire young minds to think big. There are plenty of ticketed events, there are lots of free activities too. From explosive presentations to interactive displays, the City of Science at South Bank offers a thrilling blend of fun and education, providing families with the perfect opportunity to immerse themselves in the wonders of science and create unforgettable memories.
Sunflower Festival – April
As April rolls around, the Sunflower Festival blooms into life, offering families the chance to bask in the golden beauty of a million sunflowers. With a jam-packed program of events, including yoga sessions, art classes, and helicopter rides, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this picturesque celebration of nature. Whether it’s getting lost in the maze or capturing the perfect photo among the flowers, the Sunflower Festival promises a day of sunshine and smiles for the whole family.
Paniyiri Festival – May
In May, Brisbane comes alive with the vibrant sights, sounds, and flavors of Greek culture at the Paniyiri Festival. Celebrating its 48th year, this iconic event invites people from all backgrounds to immerse themselves in a festive atmosphere of food, dance, music, and art. From traditional Greek delicacies to lively dance performances, the Paniyiri Festival offers families the chance to experience the rich heritage and hospitality of Greece right here in Brisbane.
Green Heart Fair – 26 May
For eco-conscious families, the Green Heart Fair in May provides the perfect opportunity to learn, connect, and make a positive impact on the environment. With leading sustainability experts on hand to share practical tips and tricks, families can discover new ways to live a more eco-friendly life. From free native plants to artisanal markets and live entertainment, the Green Heart Fair offers a fun and educational day out for the whole family. Held each Autumn in a beautiful space at Victoria Park, Herston.
QPAC Out of the Box Festival – June
In June, families are invited to unleash their creativity at the Out of the Box Festival, presented by QPAC. Designed for children aged 8 and under, this biennial event features a diverse program of workshops, performances, and interactive experiences that inspire young minds to think, play, and create. From puppet shows to storytelling sessions, the Out of the Box Festival offers a world of imagination and wonder for families to explore together.
SPARK Ipswich – 6 to 13 July
In July, the SPARK Ipswich festival lights up the city with a dazzling array of events and activities for families to enjoy. From live music and performances to interactive workshops and art installations, SPARK Ipswich offers something for everyone to enjoy. With its vibrant atmosphere and sense of community spirit, this festival is a highlight of the winter calendar for families in Ipswich and beyond.
Credit: Royal National Agricultural and Industrial Association of Queensland
EKKA Royal Queensland Show – 10 to 18 August
August brings the iconic EKKA Royal Queensland Show, a beloved tradition that delights families year after year. From thrilling rides and attractions to agricultural displays and live entertainment, the EKKA offers a taste of country life in the heart of Brisbane. With showbags, animal encounters, and delicious treats aplenty, the EKKA is a must-visit for families looking to create lasting memories together.
Kite Festival – 14 & 15 September
As spring blooms across Brisbane, families flock to the Redcliffe KiteFest in September for a sky-high weekend of fun and entertainment. Make the trip 40 minutes north of Brisbane to witness awe-inspiring international kite displays, live music, interactive activities, and delicious food, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether it’s flying a kite or simply soaking up the atmosphere, the Redcliffe KiteFest promises a day of excitement and adventure for the whole family.
Credit – BEDA
Brisbane Festival – 31-21 September
If you had to pick one festival for Brisbane, it would have to be this one. Bringing people together as they spring into the new season, Brisbane presents a curated multi-arts program to transport audiences beyond the everyday through captivating performances and installations from across the world. Look out for the much anticipated program and book those tickets. As part of the festival Brisbane lights up the sky with the spectacular Riverfire event. Families gather along the banks of the Brisbane River to watch as fireworks light up the night and music fills the air. With food stalls, entertainment, and a sense of community spirit, Riverfire is a celebration of everything that makes Brisbane great, bringing families together to share in the magic of this unforgettable event.
HOTA – Kids Take Over
In October, HOTA on the Gold Coast is taken over by kids for a festival like no other. With a program bursting with workshops, visual arts experiences, and performances, Kids Take Over is designed by kids, for kids. From free activities to ticketed events, this festival encourages children to unleash their creativity, explore their passions, and make lasting memories with friends and family.
Woodford Folk Festival’s Children’s Festival – December/January
The Woodford Folk Festival is held annually over six days and six nights, from Dec 27th through to January 1st. It is the largest gathering of artists and musicians in Australia. Children’s Festival is a festival within a festival, a secluded space set aside to inspire and entertain our smaller Woodfordians. Entertainment starts from 8am each day and runs until 5pm.Activities range from puppet shows, to craft, games, theatre, circus, dance and storytelling. It’s full-time fun for everyone and anyone looking to play the day away.
As we reflect on the family-friendly festivals and shows that light up Brisbane throughout the year, it’s clear that this city is a vibrant hub of culture, creativity, and community spirit. Looking ahead to the year to come, let’s embrace the magic of these festivals and celebrate all that makes Brisbane such a special place to call home.
