A Dolly Parton-Themed Hoe-Down & More Must-Do Events At Melt Fest This Year
queer & iconic
By Olivia Middleton | 2nd October 2026Don your best sequin get-up and gather your crew, because Melt Fest is nearly upon us, and much to our delight, they’ve gone and added some last-minute program additions that have got us shimmying with excitement. As if there weren’t already enough reasons to attend Brisbane Powerhouse’s iconic celebration of queer arts and culture, running from 21 October to 8 November, they’ve now announced that there’s going to be a Dolly Parton-themed hoe-down.
Does this all sound like some boot-scooting fun? Here are some of our must-do events at Melt Fest 2026.
Splash Out with Melt’s River Pride Parade
OASIS and Harry K are teaming up to bring SPLASH OUT, Brisbane’s biggest pride party, to Melt’s official River Pride Parade. Featuring three levels of DJs, entertainment, and endless dancing, you’ll cruise down the river while waving to crowds lining the riverbanks. Last year’s event sold out – and this year is only going to be bigger and better. Bring together your fellow sailors and hit the deck by 1.45pm on Saturday 24 October, book your tickets now!
Fashioning Queer Identities
ColLAB and Melt are coming together for a huge project celebrating queer expression, community, and creativity. This collaborative, multimedia project invites you to take part in seven creative workshops, a photoshoot, and a pop-up exhibition to showcase your work. At the end, there’s even a three-day festival for you to take part in, featuring DJs and guest performers. This is a safe space to create and connect with other LGBTQIA+ creatives who love art, fashion, and performance. Best of all, it’s completely free – make sure to register for more details.
Boot scoot your way to Dolly’s Hoe-Down
Diva down? Not at Dolly’s Hoe-Down, a boot-stomping, joyful love letter to Dolly Parton, hosted by drag queen Vollie LaVont. This dance party will bring together the very best of Dolly’s discography, drag performances, and, of course, line dancing. On Friday 30 October from 7pm at the Powerhouse Theatre, you’ll find Brisbane’s campiest dancefloor celebrating the everlasting cultural influence of an icon who always stood up for the queer community. So, don your denim, cowboy boots, and as many rhinestones as you can find, because Dolly’s Disco is not to be missed.
Experience Joey Jay live in action
Sashay your way to Joey Jay’s live show this October 21 at the Beaumont, as she makes her triumphant return to the stage after placing runner-up on RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 11. Joey is officially hitting the road in an exclusive Australian tour, bringing her infectious energy, signature looks, and unbelievable talent to Brisbane. This show will bring you an unforgettable evening of live drag, behind-the-scenes Drag Race tea, and performances alongside local drag talent. Limited Meet & Greet tickets are available, so good luck – and don’t f* it up.
Connect the dots at The L Word Trivia
Talking, laughing, loving… what comes next? If you know the answer, it’s time to bring together your interconnected web of exes, hookups, and situationships for The L Word trivia at Quivr. This is for the girls who have always wanted to visit The Planet, or who just want to meet a real-life Shane McCutcheon. RSVP’s are essential, so register your beautiful, messy, and unhinged team for October 22 or November 5 to win Quiver Coins and unlimited bragging rights.
Kings of Kaos present: Cocky Horror
In a high-voltage reimagining of the cult classic Rocky Horror Picture Show, Drag King pioneers Kings of Kaos are presenting Cocky Horror – a cabaret parody featuring live vocal performances, burlesque, and multimedia film. This show pays a special tribute to the generations of queer audiences who found joy and community amongst midnight screenings, but providing a campy twist for the modern audience. The show will be held at the Sit-Down Comedy Club in Paddington from across several dates in October and November, with tickets costing as little as $39.
Imagery: @melt.fest
