The first month of 2022 has flown by in a whirlwind of WTF, and we’re (kind of) ready for everything the rest of the year is set to throw at us. It’s good to note, however, that there’s some pretty cool stuff to look forward to in the area this year. We’ve curated a comprehensive list of all the fun stuff we can see on the horizon for Brisbane. So here’s 40 fantastic things to do in and around Brisbane in 2022.
1. Step into a world full of sweets at the Chocolate Factory
Definitely one of the most highly-anticipated things to do in Brisbane on this list. Coming to the city from February 3, The Chocolate Factory is a sweet-filled paradise plucked straight from the sugar-fuelled imagination of a child. One moment you will be Hansel and Gretel wandering among giant gingerbread houses, then you will be diving into a fluorescent ball pit, hiding behind jumbo cupcakes, before flying on a sugar-high in Cloudland. To snag tickets, click here.
2. Catch The Kid Laroi in concert
The Kid Laroi is the youngest solo Australian artist in history to top the ARIA album charts, and he’s doing a massive tour in 2022. With hit after hit, he’s become a global star over the past few years. The Kid Laroi is coming to the Riverstage on June 7, so this is one concert you don’t want to miss. General admission tickets are available here.
3. Get messy and creative at this new interactive art experience
Coming to Brisbane from May 19, The Messy Museum will be a playground of colour, creation and imagination. From the slime station to the ball pit, the neon graffiti wall and the interactive digital spaces, no space will be off-limits to a good time. Visitors will get to dive in and get messy to create the wildest works of art they can. And in this museum, there’s no need to tidy up after. Snag some early tickets here.
4. Sip at all the local breweries in Brisbane
If you’re a beer lover, then it’s time to try out all the local breweries that now call Brisbane home. Valley Hops Brewing in Fortitude Valley only just opened last year on the lush rooftop of Cloudland. But there’s plenty of other breweries around the city where you can try some locally brewed frothys. Newstead Brewing Co, Felons Brewing Co, and Slipstream Brewing Company just to name a few.
5. Become soothed by Billie Eilish in concert
Also another young artist to wow the world with her music, Billie Eilish will be coming to the Brisbane Entertainment Cente on September 18, 2022. Just by what we’ve gathered of her music, it will sure be both an emotional live performance as it is a liberating one. You can buy tickets here.
6. Taste some amazing wines at Pinot Palooza
After a two and a half year break, Australia’s favourite wine festival is back in Brisbane. Housing at the Brisbane Showground from May 20 & 21, Pinot Palooza will give you the chance to try some of the best drops from some awesome Pinot producers from Australia, New Zealand, and beyond. Tickets start at $69 per person, which includes wine tastings and a REVEL wine glass. Purchase your tickets here.
7. Take a road trip to the Scenic Rim
Only recently, The Scenic Rim has been named one of the best places in the world to visit for 2022. And we can tell why. The Scenic Rim is abundant in things to do: hiking trails, epic views, some pretty sweet camping spots, even alpaca picnics at a winery. Best of all, it’s only a 1.5-hour drive from Brisbane, perfect for a weekend getaway or even a week-long escape.
8. Snorkel at the Great Barrier Reef with a day trip to Lady Musgrave Island
You don’t need to venture all the way up to Cairns to experience the Great Barrier Reef. You can even snorkel on the Reef in a day trip from Brisbane. You’ll start the morning off early with a flight to Bundaberg, where you’ll then transfer to Lady Musgrave Island in the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Spend the day snorkelling with sea turtles and a slew of other marine life. You’ll also get a buffet lunch on the boat. Tickets are $499 for adults and $449 for children. The day tour departs Brisbane at 6.30am and returns at 7.20am, which you could totally do over the weekend. Secure your spot here.
9. Get your live music fix at This That Festival
Coming to Sandstone Point on Saturday March 5, This That Festival boasts a huge line-up including Hayden James, The Rubens, Spacey Jane, Client Liaison, Jack River, San Cisco, and more. If you’ve been craving a live music fix with some of Australia’s best artists, then this is the festival you wanna go for. Tickets are available here.
10. Get inspiration for your writing at Brisbane Writer’s Festival
In their 60th year running in 2022, Brisbane Writer’s Festival is delivering a literature smorgasbord once again. From May 3 – 8, you’ll be able to attend a bunch of events featuring local and international authors and speakers. If you’re an aspiring writer, it might just be the inspiration you need to get back into your love of the craft.
11. Check out some awesome displays at Brisbane Street Art Festival
Running from May 7 – 22 this year, Brisbane Street Art Festival is ready to wow us with artistic expression yet again. Over the course of the festival, there’ll be plenty of mind-bending art to go and see from some of the best street artists in Brisbane and beyond.
12. Have some carnival fun at RedFest Strawberry Festival
A festival dedicated to one our favourite fruits, RedFest Strawberry Festival is coming to Redlands Showground in September. Think carnival favourites for the whole family, with strawberry ice creams, music and entertainment, as well as rides, exhibitions, fireworks, show bags, and more.
13. Wander through the sunflowers at this epic sunflower festival in the Scenic Rim
Kalbar Sunflower Festival is held in the Scenic Rim, about an hour and fifteen minute drive south-west of Brisbane. The eight-acre sunflower field on the farm the festival is held at will be in full bloom, ready for all the camera snaps you can imagine. This year, there’s even an epic sunflower maze you can walk your way through, as well as an array of sunflower-themed activities such as sunflower sip and paint sessions, morning yoga, cooking classes, as well as helicopter rides and a sunset dinner set amongst the sunflowers. For more info, click here.
14. Catch some free live music at Roma Street Parklands
Once a month on a Sunday, head down to The Sound Society at Roma Street Parklands for some live music. Think live jazz tunes and a licensed venue open from 10am – 8pm. You can also pack your own picnic if you wish. For more info, and for the February program info, click here.
15. Swoon over the hottest male talent at a Magic Men cabaret performance
Australia’s most anticipated men are heating up the city. Serving up a heart-stopping live performance, showcasing some of the most talented male dancers, the Magic Men are here to tear up the stage. Expect hunky men, drop-dead gorgeous waiters and eye-catching costumes. With a one of a kind show that is guaranteed to make you Feel The Magic, it’s set to be a night out to remember. Get your tickets here and see for yourself what makes these guys the talk of the town.
16. Learn more about Indigenous culture at this award-winning theatre experience
Open your eyes to the world of Indigenous culture in this one-of-a-kind live theatre and dinner experience. Featuring a powerful and mesmerising story line, Spirits of the Red Sand will take you back through time into the 1800s when the British and Aboriginal ways of life collided. Combined with everything from indigenous song and dance, to a hearty three-course feast and dessert, you can expect to have a true cultural awakening. You can buy tickets here.
17. Watch an outdoor flick at the Moonlight Cinema before Summer ends
Moonlight Cinema’s after-dark film screenings at Roma Street Parkland are the greener way to go to an outdoor cinema in Brisbane. Especially now since they’ve teamed up with Garnier to make all screenings powered by 100% renewable energy from solar panels. Although, once summer is finished, so is Moonlight Cinema for the year. Luckily, February’s month of movie magic kicks off with some classics. Think Rocky Horror Picture Show and a Grease Sing-A-Long. But they aren’t the only nostalgic numbers coming for the final month. We’ve also got The Notebook and Clueless coming our way, as well as new releases such as No Time To Die, The Matrix Resurrections, King Richard, House of Gucci, Spiderman: No Way Home and Dune to name just a few. For more info and to book tickets, click here.
18. Get European coastline vibes this House Of Peroni riverside pop-up
Riverbar & Kitchen has undergone an Italian makeover thanks to House Of Peroni. The widely popular beer brand has joined forces with Riverbar & Kitchen for one big summertime collaboration of art, fashion, music, and live music. Until the end of February 2022, we’ll be able to get a little taste of Italy without leaving Brisbane at all. Fore more info, click here.
19. Experience a little bit of Celtic culture at this fun festival
Celebrating Celtic music, culture and performance, The Gathering will take over Ipswich Turf Club from May 21 – 22. You can expect to see a Highland dancing competition, Celtic music, lost arts, as well as a medieval re-enactment and traditional games. For more info on The Gathering, click here.
20. Catch dance music legend Tiësto perform a huge live set
Tiësto is returning to Australia this year for a huge headline tour. You can catch him at Doomben Racecourse in Ascot on Saturday March 12 and relive the club memories that this dance music icon has the power of evoking. To buy tickets for you and your gang, click here before they sell out.
21. Participate in a Brisbane treasure hunt
See the best of Brisbane and delight your friends with an epic scavenger hunt! On Brisbane’s Perfect Recipe, you will wander with purpose to see the most entertaining sights in Brisbane, and learn about the history and culture while you’re at it. Snap silly photos, answer tough trivia, and have a blast with the Let’s Roam scavenger hunt app! To buy tickets, click here.
22. See Josh Pyke live at the Candelight concert at City Hall
Candlelight transforms beautiful venues into awe-inspiring concert halls, bathing the space in candlelight to provide the perfect backdrop for some sublime sounds. In this special series, ARIA award winning artist Josh Pyke and a local orchestra will be performing some stunning original songs from his new album, To Find Happiness, and his greatest hits featured on triple J’s Hottest 100 countdowns. Buy tickets here.
23. Become mesmerised at James Turrell’s Night Life art installation
Now a permanent installation, James Turrel’s Night Life illuminates the Gallery of Modern Art at night, which is perfect for photo opportunities and to just stare at of course. Whenever we look at this particular art piece, Turrel asks us to reflect on how much light affects us.
24. Take a walk into a space of imagined things at The Great & Grand Rumpus
Inspired by the limitless imagination of children, this sculptural, digital, immersive and FREE exhibition is living at the State Library of Queensland until April 18. A great indoor adventure for the kids, The Great & Grand Rumpus Room features an awesome collection of art, from the creative to the downright magical.
25. Enjoy a full day winery tour out at Mt Tamborine
Tantalise your tastebuds to the max with this idyllic full-day winery tour in Mount Tamborine. Indulge in the best food, wine and views as you visit 4 family-run wineries, an award-winning restaurant for lunch and a lookout point over the Scenic Rim. You’ll have the chance to taste a selection of wines produced by seasoned wine-makers and boutique wineries, such as Hampton Estate Winery and Cedar Creek Estate Winery, as well as a selection of locally made cheeses and fudge. To snag tickets, click here.
26. Rejuvenate at Soak Bathhouse when it opens in Brisbane this year
Soak Bathhouse has been gracing the Gold Coast for a while now with their luxe but affordable bathhouse at Pacific Square in Mermaid Beach. But now, they’re expanding and opening up a second venue in Brisbane, which we’re super excited about. Opening in West End in early 2022, this haven of relaxation is set to become Brisbane’s first rooftop bathhouse. Think seven relaxing spas, infrared saunas, mineral pools, and more. For more info, click here.
27. Play a few games at this epic indoor golf club
Welcome to Brisbane’s largest indoor golfing simulator facility. Grab a club and have a few games with your gang. There’s even a cafe on-site so you can enjoy a coffee or snack with your game. Find out more info on Golfers Paradise in Macgregor here.
28. Stay in a tiny home with an outdoor bath near Brisbane
Tucked away in the Austinville Valley near Springbrook National Park (around 1 hour south of Brisbane), you’ll find a rustic tiny home you can stay in, with both an outdoor cedar hot tub and an indoor bath, so you can get the best of both worlds. This tiny house is the perfect farmstay escape from the city, and would be perfect when the weather gets a little cooler so you can make the most of bath time.
29. Take a stroll on some short walks in the city
Discover more of your city this year. There’s heaps of things to do in the city. Brisbane’s short walks are free and don’t require much effort. There’s plenty of spots you can find that have stunning views too. We’ve curated a list of some of the best short walks in Brisbane here.
30. Discover the best waterfalls and swimming holes around Brisbane
Luckily for us, the Gold Coast Hinterland has some of the best waterfalls in Queensland. And now that the rainy weather pattern, La Niña has set in for the summer, the falls are filling up, ready to explore. Waterfalls are best visited after a big bout of rain, so this summer might just be a prime time to catch the hinterland falls in all their glory. Here’s a list of the best waterfalls to catch in the region — some that you can swim in, and some best seen from afar.
31. Enjoy the OG reunion tour of the Wiggles
After they took out the Triple J Hottest 100 number 1 spot this year for their hit cover of Tame Impala’s Elephant, The Wiggles are taking to the stage once again. But this time, both the OG Wiggles and the new Wiggles will there (yes, eight Wiggles in total for the first time ever). They’ll be playing two huge shows at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre on Saturday April 30, one at 10am and another at 1pm. You can buy tickets here.
32. Be wowed by a night of mind-blowing circus acts at Cirque Illusionaire Spectacular
Prepare to be amazed by a breathtaking combination of circus acts, magic, comedy, and burlesque. Making its debut at the sumptuous setting of LaRuche Cocktail Lounge this February, Cirque Illusionaire offers an intimate and cosy display of dazzling delights and designer cocktails. Why not make it a date night to remember and go VIP, enjoying an exclusive backstage experience with the stars and a delicious sharing platter for you and your partner. Wednesday nights have never looked so good! You can buy tickets here.
33. Get taken on an instrumental journey with a huge live set from Ben Böhmer
German DJ and Producer Ben Böhmer is known for his melodic instrumental tunes that captures the hearts of his fans. This year, he’s coming to The Triffid in Brisbane for one big show. Let’s face it, it’s going to be a good one!
34. Escape on one big weekend of music, art, and connection at Earth Frequency Festival
Located in the heart of the lush Australian bushland of Ivory’s Rock (about 50 minutes south-west of Brisbane), Earth Frequency Festival is a 4-day music, arts, and environmental festival, with a diverse music lineup, as well as workshops, camping, and more. You can buy tickets to this year’s festival here. It’s set to take place from May 6 – 9.
35. Experience the best of Australian music at Splendour In The Grass
Tickets to Splendour In The Grass 2022 sold out on the same day the tickets went on sale, which was no surprise. Especially with big name acts like Gorillaz, Tyler The Creator and Glass Animals on the lineup. But there’s always the iconic resale system that happens every year, so sign up for the waiting list here and hopefully you can snag yourself a ticket in the months to come. Splendour in the Grass will run over 3 days from July 22 – 24.
36. Go crab catching and soak up the Gold Coast sights on this epic day cruise
Explore the diversity of the Gold Coast on a day trip that includes the city sights of Surfers Paradise, visiting the famous surf beach of Burleigh Heads, the coastal highlights along the beautiful Southport Broadwater, and an experience catching a crab. You’ll see it all on this full-day trip departing either from Brisbane or the Gold Coast and be amazed by the numerous contrasting experiences you can squeeze into just one day. You can buy tickets here.
37. Go on an island escape to Stradbroke Island
Discover Brisbane’s neighbouring island, Stradbroke Island A.K.A Straddie. There’s plenty of adventures to be had here: from whale watching winters to endless summers by the beach. It’s the perfect getaway for you and your mates.
38. Plan a trip overseas
2022 is a great time to plan your next overseas escape. We’ve had two years off international travel and it’s time to start exploring the world again. Whether it’s taking your annual leave and going on a cheap getaway to New Zealand or South-East Asia or splashing out on an extended trip to Europe, the world is waiting to be seen again.
39. Take up a Paint ‘N’ Sip art lesson
Wesley Taylor Art Studios present the new ‘Paint & Sip’ sessions: two-hour art lessons with all art materials supplied and food & drink available for purchase. No experience is required since the professional artist will help make your piece of art a success. All materials will be supplied to you so you can produce a veritable work of art on the provided 40cm x 30cm canvas. What’s more—you get to take your self-made masterpiece home! Secure a spot for you and your mates here.
40. Learn how to make a Turkish Mosaic Lamp
Join the experts at Art Masterclass and unleash your inner artist at this fun-filled workshop. Discover the techniques to decorate your lamp, using a variety of coloured tiles to design breathtaking Islamic geometric patterns and lay them down. Once your masterpiece is finished, you’ll receive all the necessary materials and instructions to complete the final stage and grout or plaster your lamp at home. Sip on some delicious Turkish tea, nibble on homemade Turkish shortbread and let your creativity flow! Book your tickets here.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this list of things to do in and around Brisbane in 2022!