Brisbane is renowned for its lively annual events that bring together locals and visitors alike to celebrate the city’s rich cultural heritage and sporting prowess. The Royal Queensland Exhibition, affectionately known as the Ekka, is the city's longest-running major event, taking place every August at the Brisbane Showgrounds in Bowen Hills. This agricultural exhibition is a highlight on the calendar, featuring livestock shows, carnival rides, and food stalls. A public holiday is observed across local government areas to ensure widespread attendance, making it a cherished tradition.

Every September, the Brisbane Festival transforms the city into a hub of creativity and entertainment, with a diverse program that includes Riverfire—one of the nation’s largest fireworks displays. This spectacular event attracts hundreds of thousands of spectators to South Bank Parklands and surrounding areas, illuminating the night sky and igniting community spirit.

The Brisbane International Film Festival (BIFF), held annually in July and August, showcases a range of films from both domestic and international filmmakers. The festival includes new releases, retrospectives, and engaging seminars, celebrating the art of cinema across various venues in the city.

The Brisbane Portrait Prize is another prominent annual event, highlighting local talent and creativity. Set to move from the Brisbane Powerhouse to the State Library of Queensland in 2024, this art competition requires that all portraits feature subjects with a connection to Brisbane.

One of the largest cultural gatherings in Australia, the Buddha Birth Day Festival at South Bank attracts over 200,000 visitors each year, offering a vibrant celebration of culture and spirituality.

In addition to these major events, Brisbane hosts numerous community festivals, such as the Paniyiri Greek Festival in May, the Brisbane Medieval Fayre and Tournament in June, and the Bridge to Brisbane charity fun run. Other local favorites include the Anywhere Festival and the Caxton Street Seafood and Wine Festival, showcasing the city’s commitment to community engagement and diversity.

The Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre serves as a key venue for many major events, accommodating a wide range of gatherings and exhibitions throughout the year.

Sport

Brisbane is also a powerhouse in the sports arena, having hosted numerous prestigious events including the 1982 Commonwealth Games, 2001 Goodwill Games, and various Rugby and Cricket World Cups. It is set to host the 2032 Summer Olympics and Paralympics, positioning the city on the global sporting stage.

The Brisbane International tennis tournament is a yearly highlight, attracting top players from around the world. The city is home to several professional sports teams, including the Brisbane Broncos and Dolphins in rugby league, the Queensland Reds in rugby union, and the Brisbane Lions in Australian rules football. Additionally, soccer enthusiasts can cheer on the Brisbane Roar FC in the A-League.

Cricket enjoys significant popularity, with the Brisbane Heat competing in the Big Bash League and the Queensland Bulls representing the state in domestic competitions. Brisbane's sporting landscape is further enriched by teams in basketball, baseball, netball, field hockey, and water polo.

Major sporting venues such as the Gabba, Lang Park (Suncorp Stadium), and the Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre host both local and international events, while numerous golf courses, including the Indooroopilly Golf Club, cater to golf enthusiasts.

In addition to flagship teams, Brisbane features many secondary leagues, including the Intrust Super Cup and National Rugby Championship, fostering a rich sports culture throughout the region. Overall, Brisbane's annual events and sporting achievements reflect the city's vibrant community spirit and commitment to celebrating culture and athletics.