What’s Hot & Happening In Brisbane This Weekend

So, we’ve thiiiiis close to the finish line — the festive buzz is real, the calendars are chaotic, and the end-of-year energy is well and truly in the air. And in case you missed it, there’s heaps happening right now.

From enchanted gardens glowing across our inner-city parklands to blockbuster nights under the stars and Christmas parodies on stage, this weekend is dishing up a little magic for every vibe. Whether you’re chasing Christmas cheer, an open-air movie moment, or a cultural fix, consider this your sign to get out there and soak up a Brisbane weekend absolutely humming with possibility.

Love Actually? The Musical Parody | All Weekend

Whether you love Love Actually, hate Love Actually, or have somehow never seen it, this show is for you. Find all the holiday cheer (and chaos!) at Love Actually? The Musical Parody, running at the Brisbane Showgrounds now through 21 December. A worldwide smash hit, the musical follows nine delightfully quirky couples as they fumble through romance, awkward moments, and outrageously over-the-top gestures during the most wonderful time of the year. Don’t miss the laughs – book your tickets now.

What: Love Actually? The Musical Parody
When: All Weekend
Where: Brisbane Showgrounds (Royal International Convention Centre)
Tickets: here

A Very Naughty Christmas  | All weekend

Another Christmas parody? Sign us up. A Very Naughty Christmas is now running until 21 December at Twelfth Night Theatre. It’s Christmas Carols – but not as you know them. Expect your favourite holiday classics with a twist: side-splitting comedy sketches, a live band, and pop-infused bangers you never knew you needed. This is the kind of Christmas party your boss (or mum) definitely shouldn’t hear about. Grab a cabaret table, join the naughty list, and indulge in all-night drinks service while soaking up a show that’s witty, cheeky, and outrageously saucy.

What: A Very Naughty Christmas 
When: All Weekend 
Where: Twelfth Night Theatre
Tickets: here

Government House Christmas Lights 2025  | All weekend

The Christmas spirit is back at Brisbane’s iconic Government House, and this year it’s bigger, brighter, and more magical than ever. The historic Fernberg Estate has been transformed into a stunning free Christmas lights display, lighting up the landmark residences and gardens in festive glory. Running nightly from 6.45 PM to 8.15 PM, the display has become a must-see holiday tradition for Brisbane families. And this year, there are fresh, dazzling elements to delight both first-timers and returning visitors so you can experience the magic all over again. Thousands stream through the gates each season to wander the sparkling grounds, marvel at the colourful lights, and soak up the festive atmosphere. No bookings, no fuss – just turn up, explore, and let the holiday glow take over. We’ll catch ‘ya there!

What: Government House Christmas Lights
When: All Weekend 
Where: Government House  

Olafur Elliasson: Presence | All weekend

QAGOMA’s highly anticipated new exhibition is here! The Icelandic-Danish artist Olafur Eliasson invites you on an expansive, multi-sensory journey through his Brisbane-exclusive exhibition, Presence. Be among the first to experience his expansive multi-sensory artworks that push the boundaries of perception. Featuring more than 20 works, you can choose your path through rocky, primordial landscape, navigate an optical puzzle, or imagine the future of our city. Presence also debuts two new major installations that explore the polarisation of light: Your negotiable vulnerability seen from two perspectives 2025 and Your truths 2025. Eliasson’s work encourages you to be fully present in the moment, inviting reflection on the wonder and complexity of nature. Read more about the exhibition and our interview with Olafur himself here.

What: Olafur Elliasson: Presence
When: All Weekend
Where: Gallery of Modern Art

The Nutcracker | All Weekend

It’s simply not Christmas without The Nutcracker, and this season, Queensland Ballet is set to dazzle. Step into a world of swirling snowflakes, shimmering sugar plums, and pure holiday magic as Queensland’s finest dancers bring E.T.A. Hoffmann’s timeless tale to life. This beloved 130-year-old classic is elevated with a breathtaking live score by the Queensland Symphony Orchestra, creating an experience that feels truly spellbinding. As the clock strikes midnight, follow Clara on her enchanted journey where she meets the elegant Snow Queen, the charming Prince, the iconic Sugar Plum Fairy, and the many whimsical inhabitants of their glittering kingdom. A spectacular midnight adventure, The Nutcracker is the must-see performance to embrace the festive season in all its wonder.

What: Queensland Ballet Nutcracker
When: All Weekend
Where: Queensland Performing Arts Centre

The Enchanted Garden | All weekend 

The Enchanted Gardens return this year from 21 November to 20 December, unveiling a new immersive festive story designed to captivate visitors of all ages. Overflowing with Christmas magic and spectacular light-show moments, it promises to bring a burst of seasonal sparkle to Brisbane. Wander through the 22,000sqm of the lush inner-city parklands illuminated with tens of thousands of twinkling lights, shimmering projections, and enchanting visual displays. Settle in for the evening with onsite food trucks and a pop-up licensed bar offering delicious bites and festive sips.Tickets are on sale now, so be sure to book and be swept away in the festive spirit.

What:The Enchanted Garden
When: All weekend 
Where: Roma Street Parkland