Water raves, outback opera and blues festivals – here’s a list of the unmissable events for 2026
There’s nothing quite like the post-holiday slump – especially when the calendar ahead looks painfully empty. To help cure it, we’ve rounded up the festivals and events set to define 2026. From high-energy water raves and outback opera to blues festivals and comedy musicals, these are the experiences you won’t want to miss. Read on for more …
Laneway Festival, Saturday February 7
The much-loved indie-music gathering Laneway Festival will make its Gold Coast debut in February, featuring a star-studded lineup of local and international artists. Headlining the festival this year is the princess of the Midwest, Chappell Roan, who will bring her iconic queer anthems and global pop hits. Joining Chappell on the lineup is Mercury Prize-winners – and Laneway professionals – Wolf Alice, who are amped to tear up the stage with their blend of grunge rock and dream folk. The festival has also scored a host of Laneway-only performances, from the intimately earnest Role Model, to the pop internet sensation PinkPantheress and the indie chaos of Wet Leg. The new site at Southport Sharks offers a unique setting with an easy-to-navigate layout, seamless movement between stages and transport connections. Intimate yet expansive, it’s set to deliver a world-class festival experience in 2026.
AACTA Festival, Wednesday February 4 to Sunday February 8
The 2026 Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts Festival (AACTA) will return this February at HOTA Gold Coast. The festival seeks to celebrate the best in film, television, documentary and online content with countless events, workshops and awards ceremonies held over five days. Highlights of the 2026 program include an on-stage conversation with leading lady of Season 4 of Bridgerton, Korean/Australian-actress Yerin Ha, an industry keynote with the president of international production at Sony Pictures Television Worldwide, Wayne Garvie and an extended conversation about Kenny with brothers Shane and Clayton Jacobson.
S20 Australia, Saturday February 28
Get ready to get soaked as globally acclaimed water festival S20 Australia slides into Brisbane this February. The highly-anticipated EDM festival – inspired by Thailand’s Songkran Festival – will arrive in Australia for the first time, providing a day of high-energy combined with explosive water-cannons and splash zones. Set against the natural backdrop of The Royal Queensland Golf Club, the festival will have ample space for those seeking a soaked time, or who want to stay comfortably dry. Brazilian musician Alok, Australian DJ and music producer Will Sparks and English singer/songwriter Becky Hill are amongst some of the other talents featured in this year’s lineup.
BrisAsia Festival, Friday February 13 to Sunday February 22
Brisbane’s biggest showcase of Asian culture, cuisine, art and music, BrisAsia Festival returns this February. Now in its 14th year, the festival plans to be even bigger than ever, returning in 2026 with 28 events – including ten new experiences – across 17 suburbs and more than 350 talented artists. From comedy galas and K-pop showcases to Chinese Opera and skate workshops, this is one festival you won’t want to miss. To check out the full BrisAsia Festival 2026 program, visit the Brisbane City Council’s website.
World Science Festival Brisbane, Friday March 20 to Sunday March 29
World Science Festival Brisbane returns in March 2026, bringing ten days of big ideas, bright minds and imaginative experiences to the city. More than 100 events will roll out across Queensland Museum Kurilpa, the Cultural Centre, Fish Lane and surrounding precincts, creating a thrilling mix of thought-provoking talks, hands-on experiments, live performances and family fun that prove science is anything but boring. Tickets for select events are on sale now, with the full program to be unveiled on Thursday January 29, 2026.
Horizon Festival, Friday May 1 to Sunday May 10
Horizon Festival proudly returns in May, celebrating its tenth year as a meeting place for connection and wonder. Held on Kabi Kabi and Jinibara Country on the Sunshine Coast, the 10-day festival continues to shine a spotlight on First Nations culture through visual art, music and performance. The festival kicks off with a good ol’ fashioned street party on Maroochydoore’s Ocean Street and continues with 30 programmed events, ranging from live music and artist talks to urban galleries and workshops.
Blues on Broadbeach, Tuesday May 14 to Friday May 17
One of Australia’s largest music festivals, Blues on Broadbeach, returns this May to celebrate its 25th anniversary. Over four days, the beachside precinct will come alive with soulful rhythm and blues, transforming the coast into a sun-drenched celebration for music lovers. The lineup spans blues, rock and groove, with highlights including acclaimed Australian band The Teskey Brothers.
Festival of Outback Opera, Tuesday May 19 to Monday May 25
Opera Queensland’s Festival of Outback Opera returns to Winton and Longreach in May. Equipped with a dynamic program of concerts, long lunches, twilight events and open-air performances, the outback will be shaped into a lively hub of music and entertainment for an entire week. Headlined by acclaimed tenor Filipe Manu, the festival unites world-class performers for a vibrant line-up of live performances, community moments and outback galas. The festivities begin at Winton’s historic Royal Theatre, where alfresco performances and a warm country welcome set the tone. The Crackup Sisters will open Winton’s famed Outback Opera House (aka The Dustarena) for a joyful community sing-along and a performance of All Together Now!, inviting festivalgoers to jump straight into the fun. The festival also offers flexible itinerary packages, whether you’re dropping in for a long weekend or committing to the full week.
Noosa Food & Wine Festival, Thursday June 11 to Sunday June 14
Sunshine, surf and serious flavour will be on the menu next June when the Noosa Food & Wine Festival returns with a refreshed identity and a stacked program of unmissable events. The festival will welcome world-class chefs and culinary leaders to Noosa for four days of flavour-driven events and experiences – from intimate chef’s tables to exclusive island lunches and sunset dinners on the beach. The series of Signature Events rounds out in true Noosa style with The Festival Sundowner, a sun-drenched beach party featuring Light Years’ playful Asian-inspired canapes, Stone & Wood brews and DJs spinning into the night. This is the ultimate celebration of good food and quality sips that you won’t want to miss.
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Byron Writers Festival, dates announced soon
Byron Writers Festival will celebrate its 30th anniversary this year against the scenic backdrop of Bangalow Showground. Literary lovers can look forward to three days of more than 100 sessions of bold storytelling, big ideas and timely cultural conversation. Past guest speakers include UK author Esther Freud, American-Canadian journalist John Vaillant and Australian appearances by Nick Byrant, Hannah Ferguson, Zoë Foster Blake, Di Morrissey and ABC’S Elder-in-Chief Jackie Huggins. The festival is the ideal place for emerging writers to get educated and inspired by other authors. Stay tuned for the 2026 dates and program details.
The Book of Mormon, Friday July 31 to Sunday August 30
Get ready to cry out loud with laughter when Australia’s biggest ever musical comedy, The Book of Mormon, returns to QPAC in July. The satirical comedy follows the misadventures of a pair of missionaries sent to a remote Ugandan village to convert locals. Created by South Park duo Trey Parker and Matt Stone, alongside songwriter Robert Lopez, the show uses boundary-pushing humor to explore faith and one’s true purpose. For those who haven’t yet seen this musical, now is your time.
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, dates announced soon
Take a drive out west this September for the most colourful month-long celebration of all things floral. Over 150,000 seeds, bulbs and seedlings are planted each year in the Garden City for the annual Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers. Visitors can expect major showcases including Queens Park Botanic Gardens and Laurel Bank Park along with floral installations springing to life around the CBD, Picnic Point Lookout and Spring Bluff Railway Station. The 2026 dates will be announced soon, keep your eyes peeled on the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers website.