An epic guide To Brisbane's Ekka
Brisbane’s favourite ‘country meets city’ celebration returns from 9 – 17 August to the Royal Exhibition Showgrounds The Ekka is your chance to experience the best of Queensland’s agriculture, food, entertainment and family-friendly fun - all in one vibrant event. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned showgoer, we've rounded up the top Ekka experiences to help make the most of your time at this iconic celebration with this epic list of things to do at the Brisbane Ekka 2025 list.
Every August, fireworks light up the Brisbane skyline, marking the arrival of The Royal Queensland Show, fondly known by locals as the Ekka. From day to night there is plenty to do, whether you’re a first-time visitor or long-time local you’ll be met with a variety of award-winning food, thrilling rides, wood chopping competitions, iconic showbags and family entertainment.
Check in to your accommodation
Before you head off to explore the Ekka, you’ll be needing a good night’s rest, or at least a place to stash all the goodies you’re bound to collect on the day ahead. Choose convenience with a hotel not far from the action at the Brisbane Showgrounds, Rydges Fortitude Valley, Kennigo Hotel or Oaks Mews all within an arm's reach of the Ekka. Alternatively, immerse yourself in Brisbane’s vibrant City life with a plethora of renowned dining and entertainment options at your doorstep, stay at one of the many hotels in the heart of The City.
Breakfast of champions
Everyone knows breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and you’ll want to fuel up for a big day ahead! For a quick and tasty breakfast close to the Ekka, opt for the likes of Sunroom, Supernice, Kulh-Cher, or explore James Street’s bustling morning scene where popular breakfast spots like emme, The Green, James and Antler or King Arthur Café all serve up breakfast in style. Whether you’re after a coffee and a bite to eat, or something a little more indulgent, Brisbane is home to plenty of breakfast spots to suit every taste breakfast spots found throughout Brisbane breakfast spots found throughout Brisbane.
Watch the woodchop
How much wood would a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood?
For over 100 years, Ekka-goers have been impressed with the might and power of these modern-day woodchopping warriors. Watch the sawdust fly as competitors go head-to-head in timed challenges and marvel at their pure strength and precision in the sawing competition.
Treat your inner child, visit the Showbag Pavilion
Which one to choose? That’s half the fun! You could spend hours poring over the showbag guide searching for the perfect pick. From sweet treats to quirky novelties, or educational kits, there’s something for everyone. But one thing’s for sure, the fan favourite will never disappoint: the classic Bertie Beetle bag!
Eat a Strawberry Sundae
This one is a non-negotiable. Going through 22,500 litres of ice-cream, 6.2 tonnes of strawberries and 830 litres of cream, it’s apparent that Ekka-goers love their Strawberry Sundaes. So much so, you can now pre-order a four-pack of sundaes to get ahead of the line. What’s even sweeter? All the profits from the sale of each sweet treat go to charity, supporting the Prince Charles Hospital Foundation. Did we mention they are delicious?
Ride the Ferris Wheel
See the Ekka from a whole new perspective. Hop aboard the Ferris Wheel for sweeping views of the Showgrounds, an evening ride is especially magical, with the twinkling lights of Sideshow Alley below and the buzz of the entertainment from the Main Arena creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
Visit Sideshow Alley for carnival fun
If you are looking for something that gets your heart racing, check out the adrenaline-racing rides in Sideshow Alley. You can test your limits on carnival style rides that will both thrill and delight. For families or those with younger children, head to the Kid’s Carnival where gentler rides still offer the little daredevils big thrills.
Visit the food halls and eat ALL the things
The Ekka is a foodie lover’s paradise. The food halls are a great way to indulge in a huge selection of fresh and local produce from all around the Brisbane region. You can also find hands-on masterclasses, cooking demonstrations and lots of free tastings to discover the best of Brisbane’s fresh produce scene.
Meet baby animals
Cuteness overload awaits at The RACQ Animal Nursery with over 550 baby farmyard animals to meet and take photos with, it’s no wonder this is a popular attraction for families. Hang out with the baby goats, chicks, little lambs and ducklings.
Have a drink with the cowboys
There’s no better place to unwind and mingle with friends (or make new ones) than at the Stockmen’s Bar. Settle in with a brew and listen to the yarns of the men and women of the Ekka community who make this festival of farming the friendliest place around.
View the sublime bovine
Nowhere will you find this many head of cattle so close to Brisbane City at one time. With over 30 breeds of cattle on display, these gentle giants are a sight to behold. Wander through the cattle pavilion where you can beef up on your knowledge about stud beef, led steer and prime beef.
View the agricultural displays and award-winning cakes
Explore the agricultural exhibits and learn how it impacts everything from the food you eat to the clothes you wear. And for those that love the sweeter things in life, come and see some of the best cake artists in Queensland showcase their creations as they battle it out for the 1st place ribbon.
Toe tap to the music
Check out a variety of music genres from country (of course) to jazz and rock at the main music stages. Watch musicians battle it out in the Country Music Showdown or dance along at the line dancing hoedown. We'll see you on the dance floor.
Grab some grub
Cap off the day with a delicious meal from one of Brisbane’s best restaurants. Head to Eat Street Northshore to enjoy live entertainment and pick from over 70 vendors housed in colourful containers serving food from around the globe. Feeling fancy? Try award-winning restaurant, Agnes in Fortitude Valley or Supernormal which was mentioned on Conde Nest Traveler as one of the best new restaurants in the world for 2025.
Linger longer
Extend your stay and seek out adventure in Brisbane City on an abseiling or kayak tour with Riverlife, carene down the Brisbane River on a self-captained GoBoat, or dare to take on new heights with a Story Bridge Adventure Climb. Dive into Brisbane’s rich culture with exclusive art exhibitions at Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art and live shows at Queensland Performing Arts Centre, or indulge in some retail therapy at luxe Brisbane shopping destinations, Queen Street Mall or James Street, Fortitude Valley.
Explore Brisbane’s backyard
Keep the fun times rolling and explore the wonders of Brisbane’s regions. Snorkel turquoise waters and sand board down white sand dunes of epic heights at Moreton Island/Mulgumpin, or head to the Scenic Rim and traverse volcanic mountain ranges or World Heritage-listed rainforests.
So, grab your tickets, check out the Ekka line up and gear up for a fun-filled Brisbane holiday.
