What's on in the city

Art and Culture

When Dilly Bags Catch the Light | Brisbane Quarter

Discover When Dilly Bags Catch the Light, a free art installation by First Nations artist Delvene Cockatoo-Collins, now showing at Brisbane Quarter daily until 10 May. Featuring striking large-scale dilly bags and fashion works inspired by matrilineal storytelling and Quandamooka Country, this exhibition is a must-see in The City.

FRIENDS™ opening | Uptown

Calling all Friends™ lovers mark your calendars for 9 April as Uptown opens their doors to The FRIENDS™ Experience! The ultimate destination for fans to relive all their favourite moments from the show by stepping inside iconic recreated sets, explore replica props and costumes, and snap your way through a nostalgia-packed, interactive walkthrough. 

Artist in Residence | Museum of Brisbane

Step inside the colourful world of local artist Martin Edge as he takes residence at Museum of Brisbane. Inspired by Brisbane’s everyday scenes, watch the walls come to life as he paints a large-scale mural within the Fairfax Gallery until 15 May. Pop in to catch the artwork evolve in real time.

Wil Valor | Brisbane Quarter

Give your wardrobe some one-on-one attention with a private styling session at Wil Taylor Women in Brisbane Quarter throughout May. Enjoy a personalised consult and fitting with senior fashion stylist and Wil Valor Women Partner, Liz Golding, where made-to-measure suiting and special occasion pieces are the focus.

FLOW | Anywhere Festival

Apart of Brisbane’s Anywhere Festival, FLOW is a one-night performance held on 3 May at Riverside Centre. The event features Angel Strings performing a blend of classical works and contemporary arrangements, paired with live lighting that matches the music and highlights the building’s riverside architecture.

Social Trivia | Riverbar & Kitchen

Get your thinking cap on as Riverbar & Kitchen is hosting a pop-up trivia night on 6 May, hosted by Say Less Society. This crowd-pleasing night is all about good vibes and approachable questions, with a social twist that welcomes everyone. Come solo or bring a few mates, with teams formed on the night and the focus firmly on fun, connection and a relaxed midweek atmosphere by the river.

Busking in Glory | Anywhere Festival

Busking in Glory brings Anywhere Festival flair to Queen Street Mall from 29-31 May. Performed by Merilee Ettia, this free cabaret mixes musical theatre favourites with stories from life as a street performer, all played out right where she began. Drop in, grab a spot and enjoy live music woven into the everyday City buzz.

Mother’s Day Workshops | Wesley Taylor Art Studios

Treat mum to an artsy date this Mother’s Day at Wesley Taylor Art Studios, with bargain sessions ranging from paint and sip to pottery painting or hands on wheel throwing. These welcoming studio experiences offer a fun way to slow down, get creative and make something meaningful together. Bonus points, no experience required!

Precious Exhibition | Museum of Brisbane

With NRL Magic Round taking over The City, the Precious exhibition at Museum of Brisbane is the perfect off field stop. The exhibition explores the stories behind meaningful objects, with a standout display of Queensland Rugby League memorabilia from collector Paul Hayes, spanning historic badges, tour items and match photography it's sure to add a hit of footy nostalgia to your experience.

Foodie Events

Paniyiri Greek Festival | Goodwill Bridge

It’s not every day you get the chance to dine on a Brisbane bridge, but for the 50th year anniversary of the Paniyiri Greek festival, the Goodwill Bridge is being transformed into a one-night-only table feast. On 7 May, shared-plate Greek dining and culture takes over the riverside crossing for an unforgettable night under The City lights.

Golden Avenue Restaurant | Edward Street

Golden Avenue continues to draw attention as one of The City’s standout dining destinations, recently earning a spot on Condé Nast Traveler’s 2026 Hot List of the Best New Restaurants in the World. Located on Edward Street, the Middle Eastern–inspired restaurant combines bold flavours with a light filled, garden‑like setting, making it a go‑to for long lunches, lively dinners and special occasions.

Yolk | Queen Street

Yolk has cracked into The City, bringing its delicious breakfast rolls and more to Queen Street. Known for doing the classics exceptionally well, the much-loved brekkie spot is geared for quick, grab‑and‑go mornings, with freshly made rolls, specialty coffee, and freshly squeezed orange juice on the menu.

Le Petit Chef | Lennons Restaurant & Bar

Get ready for dining with a little magic as Le Petit Chef & Friends arrives at Lennons Restaurant & Bar from 6 May. Watch as the world’s smallest chef takes over the table in a clever 3D dining experience, serving up animated storytelling and a multicourse menu inspired by flavours of Spain, Italy, France and Japan. Enjoy the experience on Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7.30pm, Fridays and Saturdays at 5pm and 7.30pm, or Sundays at 12.30pm for a lunchtime performance that’s just as fun as it is delicious.

Mother’s Day celebrations | Brisbane Quarter

From long lunches to yum cha and high tea, Brisbane Quarter has Mother’s Day dining covered. Enjoy a four course feast at The Lex, tuck into Brisbane Phoenix’s popular Mum‑Cha, savour Vietnamese favourites at Annamese, or book riverside Italian at Persone. For something a little whimsical, W Brisbane’s floral inspired high tea adds a playful touch, complete with a DIY flower bar.

Mother's Day High Tea | Hyatt Regency

Celebrate Mum this Mother’s Day with a high tea experience at Hyatt Regency Brisbane. Running across Mother’s Day weekend from 12.30pm-3pm at Lennons Restaurant & Bar and Hibiscus Bar & Terrace, enjoy an array of sweet and savoury bites served high tea style, perfect for sharing over a relaxed afternoon in The City.

Mother's Day Banquet | Blackbird

Spend Mother’s Day riverside at Blackbird Bar & Grill, with indulgent dining options to suit every kind of celebration. Choose from a refined three‑course lunch designed for long, leisurely family catch‑ups, or opt for a more relaxed Seafood & Spritz experience both paired with sweeping Brisbane River views and a polished, welcoming atmosphere.

Mother's Day Lunch | Central Restaurant

Treat Mum to a lush Mother’s Day escape at Central. Dine underground as Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut flows for $20 a glass all day, alongside Central’s signature menu and two exclusive dumpling flavours created for the one-day occasion only by Executive Chef Benny Lam.

Sporting Events

Fan Land | Queens Wharf

Fan Land returns, bringing the magic of NRL Magic Round to Queens Wharf from 1-4 May. Catch every match on the big screen, grab a drink or bite from pop-up bars and food trucks or simply settle in and soak up the lively outdoor atmosphere as the precinct comes alive with footy fans.

Live Screenings | Queens Wharf

With NRL and AFL kicked off, there’s no better place to catch the action than under the stars at Queens Wharf’s Leisure deck. Fridays and Saturdays bring live games to the big screen, while Tuesday and Wednesday nights are reserved for outdoor movies as part of Skyline Cinema. Expect big screens, great atmosphere, and Brisbane nights done right.

NRL Magic Round Screening | King George Square

Footy fever will take over King George Square during NRL Magic Round, with live screenings of every game, bringing fans together in the heart of The City. Expect a lively atmosphere, big screens and plenty of space to soak up the action alongside fellow supporters.

National Pilates Day | Westin Brisbane

Start your Saturday strong on 2 May with a World Pilates Day celebration at The Westin Brisbane. Expect 45 minutes of mat Pilates followed by coffee, breakfast and good vibes. If you’re wanting the ultimate luxe day, be sure to upgrade to the poolside recovery afterwards.

Ongoing Events

Brisbane City Markets

If you’re regular in Brisbane City you’re likely familiar with the iconic Brisbane City Markets held every Wednesday and Thursday at Reddacliff Place, Cathedral Square and Queen’s Wharf. Whether you’re shopping for a special gift, enjoying a local lunch, or picking up your weekly groceries, the markets have something for everyone.

Latin Friday Nights | Every Friday

Rediscover the magic of Latin Friday Nights at Reddacliff Place! Immerse yourself in a celebration of Latin culture featuring food trucks, live music, and social dancing. From 5pm, treat yourself to a variety of savoury and sweet delights, followed by live music until 7pm. Then, join the free dance class at 7pm and sway into the night to 11pm. Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience!

Suitcase Rummage | Monthly

Looking to score some hidden gems without the usual market commotion? Look no further than Suitcase Rummage, a delightful community market experience right in your neighbourhood. Simply pack your trusty suitcase with your cherished pre-loved items or handcrafted creations and set up your mini pop-up shop effortlessly. This unique market takes place on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of each month, nestled cosily in Reddacliff Place.

City Sounds | Weekly

Turn up and tune in to The City’s longest-running free live music program, City Sounds. Every week, at various locations, you can enjoy live music from both local and touring artists, covering a range of genres from jazz to indie folk. To see the upcoming line-up, click here.