The weather in Brisbane has been getting warmer and to accommodate, we’re spending more time outdoors, getting ready for summer. There is a whole stack of events, activities and foodie delights to put a spring in your step this November. Take a look through the list to find a bunch of things you can do during the week and on weekends.
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EAT & DRINK
1. New brewery on Stradbroke Island
North Stradbroke Island has just scored a three-storey brewery and taphouse thanks to the legends at Straddie Brewing Co. Sink a locally-brewed bev whilst overlooking the ocean this summer, all on island time.
2. Purple Palm
A new Palm Springs-inspired gin bar has arrived in Woolloongabba, complete with an all-Australian gin and spirit list. The open-air venue is totally Insta-worthy, fitted out with white tables and chairs as well as plenty of palm trees. Who’s ready for a G&T or a cocktail?
3. Unlimited fried chicken feast for $24
There’s a new fried chicken joint in Underwood and they’re doing bottomless wing buffets for just $24. If you’re a fried chicken fanatic, you’ll be in heaven at Bufwin.
4. Genital-shaped waffles from Cheeky Waffles
Make your next night-time stroll on Brunswick Street a little sweeter at this super racy waffle joint. As the name alludes to, Cheeky Waffles serves up risqué fun in the form of penis and vulva-shaped waffles dipped in chocolate and other sweet treats.
Read more here.
5. Chandon Garden Spritz pop-up bar
Spring has taken over Customs House with a brand-new garden oasis, pop-up bar, and of course the stunning riverfront views. Chandon Garden Spritz is on from Thursday – Sunday, where you can sip on vibrant spring-themed cocktails and bite into exquisite eats such as a Moreton Bay bug croissant!
More info here.
6. House of Lobster at One Fish Two Fish
It’s lobster season at Kangaroo Point seafood restaurant One Fish Two Fish. For the month of November, score delicious lobster rolls for $28. Or, if you want to get the full experience, opt for the four-course lobster feast.
7. Kusuka Corner
Pink is always in, and Kusuka Corner is all over it. After becoming a cult favourite in Sydney, this Indonesian-inspired café/eatery has moved to Brisbane, opening its doors in Sunnybank’s Market Square. Instagrammable food and drinks, pretty pink interiors – what more could you want on your next dining date?
Read our full review here.
8. New Italian restaurant
Located in the heart of the Valley, you’ll need to walk down a hidden alleyway to find this gem. But when you do, you’ll come across a vibrant outdoor laneway and spacious restaurant space.
Not only is this joint a choice spot for a bite to eat, but the festoon lights in the laneway are also a choice backdrop for a Friday night or weekend session, with DJs and acoustic music planned to play on those nights.
9. Maggie May
A supper club is a dining establishment that doubles as a social club. These clubs generally pose as high-class establishments without the unaffordable price tag. At Maggie May, you can expect a casual dining experience complete with delicious eats as well as wine to pair. The interiors pay homage to the 70s, with warm hues of mustard, golden brown and teal.
10. Ritapalooza @ El Camino Cantina
El Camino Cantina is all about the Margaritas. So much so, the brand-new Surfers Paradise outpost is currently throwing a huge celebration dedicated to them until October 20. Wanna try margarita flavours like Fairy Bread, Jelly Belly, Grape Nerd, and Wizz Fizz? They’re just a few of the 24 limited edition varieties El Camino Cantina has concocted.
See what’s on the menu here.
11. Nosferatu Distillery
When it comes to craft distilleries, Brisbane is in abundance. There’s plenty of room for more though, especially for us gin lovers who want to try all the tasty tipples. Introducing you to Brisbane’s newest craft distilling crew, Nosferatu.
Originally from Melbourne, Nosferatu has now relocated north, taking over a Bowen Hills warehouse, which acts as both a distillery and a bar.
Take a look here.
12. New menu at The Terrace
The Terrace, located sky-high on the rooftop of South Bank’s Emporium Hotel, has just come out with a new menu, which includes vibrant summery cocktails and delicious eats.
13. Riverbar + Kitchen
Due to the devastating floods back in February, Riverbar + Kitchen was forced to shut down and rebuild. Now, the iconic riverside hangout has reopened with fresh renovations and a brand-new menu. Did someone say summery sessions by the water?
14. Japanese Air Cheesecakes @ Harajuku Gyoza
Harajuku Gyoza is known for its gyoza and many Instagrammable desserts like the raindrop cake and souffle pancakes. And now they’re adding the viral Japanese Air Cheesecake to their repertoire. This fluffy, moist and super addictive dessert is quite different from the average, dense cheesecake. Instead of its usually thick and heavy texture, this sweet treat is light, airy and very moist.
Check them out here.
15. Bar Kazba
If you’re a fan of Middle Eastern stuffed pitas, then you’ll love the new menu at Kazba in Fortitude Valley, which is serving them up in varieties such as spiced kofta, cheeseburger, and chickpea. Inspired by the soulful nightlife of Tel Aviv, this is one venue that will give you a little slice of an overseas getaway without leaving Brisbane. Tasty food, cocktails and entertainment – say no more.
Find a table here.
16. Queensland’s best restaurant 2022
The Gourmet Traveller 2023 Restaurant Awards have been announced and Fortitude Valley’s ESSA Restaurant & Wine Bar has been crowned restaurant of the year. So why not check it out for yourself this month to see what all the fuss is about.
You can book a table here.
17. Vegan café in Bowen Hills
Plant Vibesis one of the loveliest vegan eateries we’ve ever been to. Delicious plant-based food, brunch cocktails – you really can’t go wrong. Our favourite savoury dish was the Big Breakfast served with tofu scramble, potato chive cake, avo, mushrooms, grilled tomato and hollandaise sauce. Their vegan chocolate doughnut is also a must-try if you’ve got a sweet tooth! Set in a Queenslander with pretty pink interiors, this café is the perfect spot for brunch with the gang.
SEE
18. Mary Poppins The Musical
In exciting news, everyone’s favourite nanny is making her way to QPAC this October. The musical is co-created and produced by Cameron Mackintosh and has just done the rounds down in Sydney before heading up our way.
The much-loved tale tells the story of a magical nanny who is employed to take care of two mischievous children. What follows is a tale of magic and adventure that has warmed the hearts of many over the years. If you adored the film as a kid, or as a parent, then you’ll love this stage adaptation.
More info and tickets here
19. Magic Men Live
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 now and see for yourself what makes these guys the talk of the town.
Grab your tickets here.
20. Fairy lights in Toowong
In the lead-up to Christmas, Toowong’s heritage fig trees on Coronation Drive have been lit up with fairy lights. So if you’re a lover of photographer, head down at night from 6pm to snap some photos of the trees illuminated.
Location: 600 Coronation Drive, Toowong.
21. Wildflowers around Brisbane
If you’re an outdoor adventure lover, then you’ll know spring is a wonderful time in and near Brisbane. The surrounding hiking trails start blooming with colour. The wattle and jacaranda flowers begin popping up around the city, as well as the spring-themed pop ups.
Here are 7 choice places to spot wildflowers in Brisbane and beyond.
22. Fridayz Live
Fridayz Live is set to hit Brisbane Showground on Friday, November 11 for one night only with Akon, Ashanti and more set to perform. Also confirmed is Shaggy, Jay Sean and TLC with Abbie Chatfield & Fatman Scoop roped in to host.
23. ‘It Shoulda Been You’ musical
Phoenix Ensemble’s newest Broadway musical ‘It Shoulda Been You’ is premiering at Beenleigh Showgrounds on Friday, November 4 and will stick around until November 26. The show centres on a wedding gone hilariously wrong.
24. Neighbourhood Earth
Developed in partnership with NASA’s George C. Marshall Space Flight Center and the US Space and Rocket Center, Neighbourhood Earth offers an in-depth look into space exploration and beyond with models of iconic spacecraft, family-friendly hands-on activities, a full-size replica of a section of the International Space Station (perfect for some space selfies!), and more.
The interactive exhibition—designed to delight families, students and little future astronauts alike—explores the solar system and our place in it, the journeys we’ve embarked on and what’s next on our missions of discovery. Tickets are now on sale!
The countdown is on for a cosmic adventure.
25. RÜFÜS DU SOL
Global electronic music sensation RÜFÜS DU SOL is set to play a show at Brisbane Showgrounds on November 26, so get your dancing shoes ready for a set like no other.
RÜFÜS DU SOL in Brisbane, November 2022
26. Disney: The Magic of Animation exhibition
Whether you’ve grown up watching Disney, or you’re still an avid fan, this dazzling Disney exhibition is here to take you on a journey into the world of our cartoon favourites. ‘Disney: The Magic Of Animation’ wowed Melbourne last year, and now Brisbane is experiencing the magic.
Featuring over 500 original artworks to honour Disney classics of the past century, the exhibition is open now at Queensland Museum.
Disney: The Magic of Animation
27. Karen from Finance
Drag queen superstar Karen from Finance is taking over Fortitude Music Hall on Sunday, November 27 for a hilarious, fun show. We heard it’ll be one for the books too, if you know what we mean.
Karen from Finance Brisbane show
28. Vance Joy
Acoustic music powerhouse Vance Joy is playing a huge show at Riverstage on Friday, November 4. Final round tickets are on sale now, so get in quick if you want to secure a spot.
29. Candlelight concert experience
Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations never before used for this purpose in Brisbane. At St. John’s Cathedral, re-live the music of Queen on Friday, November 11 as well as a Joe Hisaishi tribute on Friday, November 25.
30. The Lumineers
To add to the already-massive list of artists playing shows in Brisbane this November, we have The Lumineers hitting Riverstage on Sunday, November 13.
31. New blockbusters at the cinema
Some hotly anticipated movies are coming to Australian cinemas this November. The new Black Panther: Wakanda Forecer film is released on November 10, the powerful true story that helped spark the #MeToo movement She Said on November 17, as well as Seriously Red, which follows a Dolly Parton impersonator.
November in Australian cinemas
DO
32. Tropical Foliage Festival
Taking place at the Belmont Shooting Complex on Saturday, November 26 and Sunday, November 27, the Tropical Foliage Festival is bringing together a whole heap of tropical plant growers in one space. You’ll be able to buy as many beautiful and rare foliage plants as you can carry, get advice and see demos among a whole heap of other things going on across the two days of the event.
33. Swimming holes near Brisbane
Summer is nearly here, and so is the humidity that comes with it. Just outside of the city, you’ll find some of the best swimming holes in Australia. After all the rain we’ve had, these natural freshwater pools should be filled up—ready for you to take a dip.
10 of the most magical swimming holes near Brisbane
34. Tides of Brisbane boat tour
Back by popular demand, the Museum of Brisbane’s Tides of Brisbane boat tour is hitting the river again from November 2022. Learn about the city’s rich history whilst taking in views from the boat. The two-hour tour departs from River Hub at the City Botanic Gardens on selected Wednesdays and Sundays.
MoB Tides of Brisbane boat tour
35. Soak Bathhouse
Soak Bathhouse changes the way people visit the spa, transforming the experience into a social activity you can make part of your wellness lifestyle with friends and family. Soak’s new outlet in West End boasts epic views of the city, a rooftop sundeck to lap up the rays, and lush relaxation gardens. Take a dip in one of seven mineral pools, sweat it out in the sauna and treat yourself to a range of pampering offerings such as massages and LED facials.
36. Adrift – interactive theatre experience
A new immersive theatre experience is popping up at Metro Arts in November, where the audience is part of the story. You’ll put on a headset and be given instructions during this unique experience, which is described as both mystery and game.
“Adrift examines feelings of isolation and our fraught relationship with nature and self in the face of a potential mass extinction event”.
37. Dog-friendly parks and pubs around Brisbane
Calling all dog parents! Brisbane is brimming with dog parks, some of which are temptingly close to pubs that allow pets on-site. Go from dog date at the park to dog date at the pub (or vice versa) with these spots around the city. Just make sure you bring some treats for your pup. He/she won’t be too impressed if you’re digging into a burger and a beer while they’re sitting patiently.
See our list of pawsome dog parks and pubs to take your pupper to in Brisbane.
38. Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop
Join the experts at Art Masterclass and unleash your inner artist in 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!
Nab your tickets here.
39. Christmas markets
T’is the season for Christmas markets this month, and there are a whole heap of them popping up around the city, including %22%7D”]Carseldine Christmas Twilight Market on Saturday, November 19, as well as Milton Christmas Twilight Market on Saturday, November 26.
40. The Enchanted Garden
Returning to the Roma Street Parkland for another year, The Enchanted Garden will be on display and open to visitors in the lead-up to Christmas, from November 25 until December 21. The spectacular sensory experience will envelop the plants, trees and gardens in a kaleidoscope of colours and light for an incredible trip.
41. Open-air paint & sip sessions
Gather the gang, it’s time to get those creative juices flowing for these outdoor paint and sip sessions. Treasury Brisbane has just announced a new season of their monthly Cork, Culinary and Colour events, set against the building’s historic surrounds.
Hosted by the local creative legends at Cork & Chroma, these three-hour sessions will give you the chance to craft your own piece on canvas, all the while sipping and snacking on some indulgent delights.
More info here.
42. Westoria market
New whacky immersive night market Westoria is open every Friday night, home to art, performances and themed spaces. Not to mention plenty of signature cocktails, eats, live music, as well as tarot card readings, and more.
Check it out here.
43. River to Bay’s Cocktail & Brewery Cruises
River to Bay doesn’t do bar crawls, they do bar cruises. And on their Cocktail Cruise and Brewery Cruise, they’ll pick you up from the City Botanic Gardens River Hub for a golden afternoon of fun, visiting some of Brisbane’s best venues.
44. Waterfall walks near Brisbane
Luckily for us, the Gold Coast Hinterland has some of the best waterfalls in Queensland. Here’s a list of the best falls to catch in the region — some that you can swim in, and some best seen from afar.
45. Paint Splatter & Splash Room
Get covered in colour at this new paint splatter room near Brisbane. Sometimes the best way to de-stress is to let go and get messy, and the Splatter and Splash Room in Stapylton is a choice place to do just that.
Located just 40 minutes south of Brisbane, the paint-filled room is housed inside DIY Invasion, an art workshop hub with a whole lot of offerings.
Check it out here.
46. Lumber Punks Axe-Throwing
The team at Lumber Punks are no slouches when it comes to hurling hatchets. They’ve got real axeperience nailing their targets and they’ll be on hand to help you spin the primaeval tool. Soon, you too will be hitting your target 100% of the time—hopefully.
More info here.
47. Superfly Disco
Fortitude Valley has scored a brand-new nightclub with a light up dance floor and a whole lot of disco music. Superfly Disco is open on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights, so why not kick the weekend off with a night out a new venue?
48. Jazz nights at Bar Tano
Thursdays on James Street just got a whole lot funner thanks to Bar Tano’s new Giovedi Jazz nights. From 5-8pm every Thursday, slurp on $2 oysters, wash it down with a tipple, and enjoy jazz music into the evening.
49. David Bowie dress-up charity event
Bowie fans unite, because this month, you can dress up as the icon for a charity event. The annual Bowies Down Brunswick is back in the Valley on Saturday, November 5, raising funds this year for Cancer Council.
50. Oyster & Champagne cruise
Eat freshly shucked oysters straight from the sea on River to Bay’s Oyster & Champagne cruise. On your way to the oyster farm just outside of Moreton Island, you might spot an array of marine life, such as dolphins, turtles, sting rays, and dugongs.
More info here.
SEE MORE: Brisbane’s Largest Interactive Lighting Display Is Returning To Roma Street Parkland