Taking over Queen’s Wharf for ten spectacular nights this December, the free event promises a reimagined festive experience, fusing creativity, technology and community spirit into a dazzling celebration unlike anything else in the city.
This year’s theme, Steampunk City, invites visitors into a world where Victorian-era invention collides with futuristic fantasy. The precinct will burst to life with shimmering metallic design, intricate details, glowing tunnels and high-tech illuminations that turn familiar spaces into pockets of discovery. With four activation zones spread across the 12-hectare waterfront destination, guests can wander from one immersive moment to the next, guided by a curated soundtrack from globally renowned beatboxer and artist, Tom Thum.
Care to wander through the magic? For those ready to step into the steampunk portal, start at the George Street Stairs, where animated projections set the scene, before your descent into Queen’s Wharf Plaza and the neighbouring Spirit Works Square. Roving performers and illuminated installations will keep your excitement palpable at every turn. Down by the river, the Festive Foundry treats you to one of the festival’s most striking sights: a seven-metre inflatable airship bar suspended above the courtyard, serving steampunk-inspired cocktails and seasonal treats. Meanwhile, the Underpass becomes a hidden corridor of shifting colour and festive beats, rounding out a dazzling kaleidoscope of experiences.
At the heart of the celebration is Steampunk City at The Landing, where three nightly hero shows transform the precinct’s façade into a living storybook, brought to life through cutting-edge projections, sound design and live performances. This year’s story will centre on a mechanical timepiece that can only be recharged by Christmas spirit, with each show running every hour from 6pm – 10pm across 10 days.
“The festive season is such a special time of year, and we are thrilled to see Sono Lumo return to light up Brisbane once again,” says Kelvin Dodt, Chief Operating Officer, Hospitality at The Star Brisbane.
Sono Lumo runs 10–14 December and 17–21 December, from 6pm–10pm nightly. More information here.