The river city is jam-packed this weekend for foodies, explorers, fitness gurus, art and fashion lovers.
Gorge on delights at James St Food + Wine Trail on Saturday & Sunday
The classic and much loved James St Food + Wine Trail returns this weekend. Starting on Saturday, July 27, the event invites everyone to enjoy the adored hospitality offerings of James Street with a wide range of fun events. On Sunday, the weekend finishes off with a market day, transforming into a dining avenue for the culinary curious. Find out more here.
An Omurice pop-up is coming to Harajuku Gyoza South Bank from July 27
By popular demand, Japanese celebrity chef and internet sensation Kichi Kichi will return to Brisbane for another sold-out tour later this month with his famous Osaka Omurice dish being offered at Harajuku Gyoza South Bank. For those who missed the omurice train, this dish combines two staples, with gooey egg oozing over a bed of rice and all the trimmings on top.
Don your active wear for Fit Her Expo on Saturday & Sunday
Brisbane will play host to Australia’s leading fitness and expo for the first time this weekend at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. Australia’s most highly renowned and influential trainers including the likes of internet sensation Chontel Duncan, co-founder of The Ground Australia Cass Olholm, and ex Biggest Loser trainers Tiff Hall and Libby Babet will also host several events and exclusive demonstrations for guests. Run, or walk – both are valid ways to move your bod.
Art it up with Outer Space’s online Art Shop & debut event in collaboration with Fish Lane Precinct
In the art world, Outer Space and Fish Lane Arts Precinct have joined forces to launch a brand-new online Art Shop initiative, with a debut event to launch the collab this Sunday. The free event offers an exclusive preview and first dibs sale on all items from the latest Outer Space Art Shop curated collection. Featuring artworks and crafted objects from local independent emerging and mid-career creatives, this is a unique opportunity to start or grow your collection before these items hit the digital shelves!
Dive into creativity at Brisbane Quarter with the Shape of Water installation now on display
Get ready to plunge into an ocean of creativity as Brisbane Quarter brings you the mesmerising Shape of Water installation, in collaboration with Iris van Herpen, who is certainly keeping busy with Sculpting The Senses also on display at GOMA. This enchanting exhibit, brought to life by talented QUT design students, promises a delightful blend of art, fashion, and mouth-watering bites from Brisbane Quarter’s eateries.
Strut your putt over to Holey Moley & Hijinx Hotel’s new home at Mt Gravatt Westfield
Get ready to laugh and play like never before! Funlab’s wildly popular Holey Moley mini golf and Hijinx Hotel game rooms are opening at Westfield Mt Gravatt on Friday, July 26. Picture this: a mini-golf course bursting with pop culture nostalgia, and hotel rooms where you play instead of stay. With quirky bars, crazy cocktails, and 18 holes of pure mini-golf madness, this new spot is set to be the go-to place for fun-lovers of all ages. Find out more here.
Embrace winter wonderland vibes at Carseldine Markets on Saturday, July 27
Turn your Brisbane winter into a European fairy tale at the Carseldine Markets on Saturday, July 27th from 4pm. Settle in for a night of mulled wine, sizzling seasonal eats, and artisan delights, and stroll through festoon-lit paths while sipping cinnamony Glühwein. With over 250 unique stalls, live entertainment, and a Swiss-Alps pop-up bar serving schnapps and craft brews, this Wintertide Wonderland is the cosy, magical evening you’ve been dreaming of. Mark your calendars for a night of frosty fun!
Honourable Mention: Beyond Brisbane
The Scenic Rim Farm Gate Trail awaits on Sunday, July 28
Grab your esky and hit the road for a day packed with baby lambs, alpaca cuddles, and goat giggles at the Scenic Rim Farm Gate Trail to round out the region’s celebration of fresh flavours, farm chats, and tantalising treats straight from the source. From freshly picked produce and homemade jams to wine tastings and flower farm fun, there’s something for everyone. Just over an hour from Brisbane, it’s the ultimate day trip or weekend escape – and you’re supporting farms and families and in the process.
Brisbane Lions up to third!
July 17th, 2024
Eat up, ink up, drink up.
There ain’t no rest for the wicked – your weekend is packed with new markets on the southside, a festival up north, and a bunch of good stuff in the middle that is anything but mid.
Sweeten your weekend with 100’s & 1000’s Lamingtons from Jocelyn’s Provisions on Saturday and Sunday
It is not an exaggeration to say we want thousands (not just hundreds) of Jocelyn’s new sweetie treatie. This nostalgic Lamington went viral on Instagram as the rainbow sprinkles from everyone’s childhoods stole hearts, reminding us Aussies of fairy bread and happy memories. The Lamingtons are only available for Saturday and Sunday, so make your way to the bakery ASAP.
Celebrate Summa House’s 2nd birthday with bottomless bevs and prizes from July 18 to 21
Dress in your birthday best, we’re hopping on the bottomless brunch train headed straight for Summa House. For four days, they’re offering a birthday week package, which includes a two-hour beverage package, an Aperol spritz or paloma on arrival, and an eight-course tapas menu (with cake – hallelujah!). While normally the birthday person would get the pressies, you’ll have a chance to win epic prizes like a two-night stay in Noosa, Listen Out passes, and a weekend booth package for you and ten mates.
Get ink-spired by Ink & Drink at Superordinary, Northshore from Friday to Sunday
Paint and sip? If you’ve been there and done that, why not take things up a notch and discover the world of tattoo artistry – luckily, you’ll practise on synthetic skin, so go ahead and BYO alcoholic or booze-free beverage of choice. These two-hour workshops will make you a master of linework, colouring and shading techniques, or at the very least, you’ll have a blast with your date or mates while unleashing your creativity.
Get your basket ready for Rivermakers’ new Sunday market
You may have been to Rivermakers before to visit Revel Brewing or Bavay Distillery, but now you have a weekly reason to visit. Kicking off on Sunday, July 21, the Rivermakers heritage precinct is partnering with Goodwill Projects to bring markets to Morningside. Expect to find the best makers, bakers, and growers from South East QLD and Northern NSW, along with local businesses and talented artisans. Find out more here.
If winter’s giving you a hard time, warm up at South City Square
Dining specials await at South City Square. Fishbowl, La Macelleria Gelateria, Sasso Italiano, South City Wine, Casa Chow and recently opened Uncle Don have banded together to keep winter’s chill away. Fishbowl is coming in hot with its beef brisket box and chilli jam for $10, or go for Casa Chow’s $25 blazer and basket, which comes with a fiery cocktail and selection of dumpling baskets. SOJA Studios and Angelika Cinemas also have specials on – go check ‘em out!
Lock in the stay-cay you’ve been waiting for – bookings at The Star Grand Brisbane are now open
If your Brissie stay-cay is long overdue, go the extra mile and holiday in luxury in one of the 340 new rooms at The Star Grand Brisbane. The floor-to-ceiling windows make this in particular one of the best spots to see Riverfire, so make sure you reserve your spot well in advance. We know when we’ll be making our booking – the foodie hub opens August 29, so expect to see us ready and waiting from sun-up to get a taste.
Transcend to the world of light at Dopamine Land
If you haven’t checked out Dopamine Land inside Uptown at Queen Street Mall, this is your sign to get your butt into gear cause limited spaces are available. The immersive experience explores the rooms of Musical Tiles, The Keep Calm Forest, and Lucid Dreams, which be warned contains ASMR (if you don’t know what this is, don’t worry about it). There’s even more to be discovered, and we guarantee it’ll look much cooler than some words on a screen.
Go IRL to try the Tik Tok viral Japanese Mont Blanc dessert at Harajuku Gyoza
You’ve heard of voluptuous souffle pancakes and sumo-sized sushi tacos, and Harajuku Gyoza has done it again. Introducing the Mont Blanc air cheesecake, with your choice of bright pink strawberry or vibrant green matcha flavours, for $18 each. The intriguing dessert is piped cheesecake with ice cream and topped with Mont Blanc, made from white bean paste, which ends up looking somewhat like that blue spaghetti-looking Pokemon (IYKYK).
Honourable Mention: Beyond Brisbane
Migrate north for NOOSA alive! from Friday, July 19
Live shows, literary events and gourmet goodies are coming together up at Noosa from July 19 to 28, returning for its 22nd run of the festival. The J Noosa will host performances like The 7 Sopranos and comedian Tom Gleeson’s sold-out act, ‘Gear’, while Noosa Main Beach has a myriad of live entertainment, including the two-day mini music festival Seaside Vibes. Check out the full lineup if you need any more motivation – we’ll start packing the car for this little road trip.
RIP to State of Origin…
July 10th, 2024
Vive la France? Ooh la la? That’s enough French, oui?
What have we been daydreaming about? Picnics in the park, duck-filled Sundays, and French fare. Intrigued? Read on to see what’s happening this weekend…
Commemorate & support NAIDOC Week with Magpie Goose x Firesticks Alliance’s collaboration
Proudly Aboriginal owned, King St’s fashion hub Magpie Goose has teamed up with Firesticks Alliance to drop a brand-new collection of t-shirts to raise awareness about the benefits of cultural burning in the midst of a climate crisis. This collaboration coincides with NAIDOC Week, and this year’s theme is “Keep the Fire Burning – Blak, Loud and Proud” so you can support a wonderful cause and don some meaningful ‘fits.
Play a round of Duck Duck Pinot at Fish Lane from July 12-28
Your faves along Fish Lane have banded together to offer unique duck dishes, paired perfectly with a delectable glass of pinot. And the best part? Every delicious combo is under $55. From crispy duck confit to savoury duck wontons and juicy duck ragu, this is a feast fit for a foodie game of Duck Duck Goose – but with a lot more flavour and fun.
Knock off better with Essa’s new Friday lunches
We’ll take any excuse to go out for a Friday lunch and never return, but it’s nice to have the option of an express feed with Essa’s new special. Whether you’re expected to return to work pronto or to fill up your Friday, this $68 lunch can be tailored to suit your schedule with add ons and cocktails served in The Nixon Room from 4pm. Put on that OOO and go for a boozy arvo!
Wine & dine at Providore Park at Roma Street Parklands on Saturday & Sunday
If fun in the sun is just what the doctor ordered, let’s hope for nothing but sunshine as we take to the Roma Street Parklands in search of bountiful treats. Providore Park is back for another year, featuring The Village with market stalls by Brisbane’s top producers like Lune Croissanterie and New Farm Confectionery, masterclasses by chefs from the likes of sAme sAme and Bianca, picnic spots, a VIP lounge, and a main stage with live entertainment. We highly recommend checking out the full program!
Be dazzled by Mx Burlesque at The Princess Theatre on Saturday
A tale of drama, sensuality, and wit, The Princess Theatre is hosting the Queensland State Finalists of Mx Burlesque, and you’ll find out who takes the crown this Saturday night. This evening will be a true spectacle, featuring all the glitter and glam you can dream of by the talented participants of Australia’s largest burlesque competition.
Release your inner francophile at C’est Bon’s Bastille Day weekend
Vive le France! There’s no shortage of love for all things French at the moment with the Paris Olympics coming soon, and now the southside has a front seat to the festivities. C’est Bon is hosting a weekend packed with Bastille Day celebrations, including a French Shared Dinner, a Champagne Lunch and a Sunday Jazz session. The food, cocktails and tunes are sure to have you saying ooh la laa, and not just because it sounds funny.
Catch Longwang’s new Lucky Duck Sundays agenda
Duck and DJs? Not a combo we thought we needed, but we absolutely want a taste of this. Visitors to Longwang on a Sunday are the true lucky ducks of Brisbane, as they’ll catch the eight dish duck banquet for $109pp, live DJs from 1-4pm, and a limited-edition cocktail. And if you’re smart and stick around after 4pm, you’ll be able to enjoy Dragon Hour specials till 6pm (you’re welcome).
Upgrade date night with Izakaya Publico’s fiery tomahawk for two
With a name like Valentino Acuzar, there’s no wonder Izakaya Publico’s executive chef has concocted a romantic dish designed to share. While a 1kg tomahawk steak may not immediately bring lovey dovey vibes to mind, this special is flambéed over the restaurant’s unique Warayaki Grill, served with broccolini, kabocha puree, and sweet potato crisps, and also comes with a bottle of red wine for $120. That’s the way to our hearts.
We can smell the State of Origin in the city already…
July 3rd, 2024
For the kids, kids-at-heart, and those just kidding themselves.
While July didn’t start off very dry, we’re forecasting scattered exhibitions over the city, light family activities, and a sprinkling of truffles.
Celebrate the reopening of Newstead House on July 6
Brisbane’s oldest surviving European residence is opening its newly painted doors for a family fun day this Saturday from 10am to 2pm. The green lawns will have roving magicians, mini games, a reptile show, and food trucks. If history’s your bread and butter, go on a self-guided tour around the restored house museum and bask in the riverside vista.
Snap a memory at the World Press Photo Exhibition at Brisbane Powerhouse
From July 6, take a moment and look back on the pivotal moments of our time with Brisbane Powerhouse’s captivating showcase, featuring stunning photographs from all over the world, and the potential winners of four prestigious awards. Experience a visual journey through the finest global photojournalism, all within the confines of this remarkable exhibition. Entry is free!
Ignite your inner wine connoisseur at The Reserve Wine Expo on July 6 & 7
Start practising your wine swirling! The Reserve Wine Expo is back at The Emporium Hotel for two days of sipping and savouring, featuring renowned labels like Henschke, Penfolds, St Hugo, AIX Rosé, and more. Your ticket earns you a taste of all the goods, with the option to go premium for access to highly coveted wines. And you don’t have to worry about the wine getting to your head – you could always book a night’s stay at The Emporium (which is the kind of commute we’re all about).
Explore Iris van Herpen’s Sculpting the Senses, now open at GOMA
Combining fashion, art, science and technology, Iris van Herpen’s exhibit explores texture and other-wordly patterns with garments created with the likes of Beyonce, Björk, Lady Gaga and Tilda Swinton in mind. That’s not all – alongside dynamic and even 3D printed fabrics, a suite of artists and scientists have come together to showcase shadow projections, drawings, astronomical photographs and so much more, adding to the immersive experience.
Follow your nose to Rich & Rare’s truffle menu
West Village’s Rich & Rare has just launched its tribute to truffles with four limited-edition dishes. Nicknamed the ‘truffle-trove’, the lineup includes truffle mushroom arancini (bedazzled in gold leaf with extra truffle aioli), truffle risotto with pan-seared mushroom, potato terrine with cheese foam and generous truffle shavings, and home-made truffle ricotta gnocchi. Truffle season is looking mighty fine in Brissy.
Take the kids to Pink Flamingo Spiegeland’s Circus Fun House
Need school holiday activities that don’t involve Bluey reruns? You can enjoy the talented performances at Circus Fun House no matter your age, as the Pink Flamingo flair is still in full force with dazzling costumes and daring aerial stunts, with new comedy and musical elements. The show happens every Saturday from 11:30am, so this one is nice and easy to fill out your kid’s weekend.
Head on a Sunday drive to Distillery Road Markets
Just in case the rainy weather we saw earlier this week prevails, this indoor market is the perfect excuse to get out of the house without lugging around a just-in-case umbrella. Showcasing the region’s best food growers, small-batch producers and local artisans, the markets are designed to make you shop and feast till you drop. The precinct has also just opened a huge space dubbed The F.E.D (The Food and Entertainment District). Head down for Sundays in the Market Hall from 8am to 1pm, and then check out the new digs!
Six months down, six more to go…
