Christmas time is just around the corner and that means lots to see and do in the city of Brisbane. Never is a month more exciting than December, so kick up your heels and take part in something special over the holiday season. There’s plenty to choose from:
Brisbane Asia Pacific Film Festival
The all-new Brisbane Asia Pacific Film Festival features 16 days of films from the Asia pacific region. Covering 70 countries and 75 films, there’ll be a film to suit everyone’s tastes.
When: 29 November – 14 December
Where: Various locations
Costumes from the Golden Age of Hollywood
Get a glimpse into Hollywood between the 1920s and 1960s and browse a collection of costumes, props and ephemera connected to stars such as Julie Andrews, Fred Astaire, Marlon Brando and Judy Garland.
When: 1 December – 24 May, 2015
Where: Museum of Brisbane
Briefs: The Second Coming
This globally award-winning dance troupe is back where it all started and performing their “show stopping pants dropping circus burlesque”. Expect the unexpected from this lively show.
When: 3 – 14 December
Where: Brisbane Powerhouse Arts
Bands in the Square
Enjoy a free festival concert featuring the classic brass of Brisbane City Temple Salvation Army, and stretch your vocal chords with some Christmas carol singing.
When: 5 December
Where: King George Square
Christmas Entertaining with Alison Alexander
Wondering what to make when all the family come for Christmas dinner? Get some inspiration from ABC Radio food presenter Alison Alexander, and learn a series of easy dishes to impress your guests, including tastings.
When: 6 – 12 December
Where: Various library locations
West End Fire Festival
The whole family will enjoy a night of free entertainment under the full moon from Brisbane’s best fire twirlers and circus performers. Learn new moves, have some fun, and sit back and watch the show.
When: 6 December
Where: Orleigh Park
Christmas Carols Scouts Queensland
This wonderful event gives opportunity for the talented Scouts of Queensland to showcase their performing art skills. The Scout Choir together with the Brisbane Regional Youth Orchestra will support the first ever Joey Scout and Cub Scout Christmas pantomime.
When: 6 December
Where: Roma Street Parkland
Cycling: Foodies Aboard to Eat Street Markets
Take a social evening ride from South Bank through Kangaroo Point, via some beautiful city treasures before grabbing a bite to eat at Eat Street Markets, Hamilton. Riders will then return to South Bank via the city boardwalk and City Botanical Gardens.
When: 12 December
Where: Southbank
Myer Christmas parade and Pantomime
This high-energy event features huge Christmas inflatables and more than 200 performers, including dancers from the Queensland Ballet.
When: 12 December
Where: Queen Street Mall and King George Square
South Bank’s Christmas Markets
Experience the wonder of a traditional Christmas market and stock up on some unique, hand-crafted goods. Set on the cobbled streets of Stanley Plaza, the treasure trove of stalls features live music and a great mix of decorations, gifts and more.
When: 12 – 14 December
Where: Stanley Plaza
IGA Lord Mayor’s Christmas Carols
Ring in some festive joy with the IGA Lord Mayor’s Christmas Carols. Featuring some of Australia’s best-loved singers, entertainers and celebrities, performers will light up the stage ahead of the great fireworks display.
When: 13 December
Where: Riverstage
Christmas Fireworks Spectacular
Pack up a picnic and head to the river as the sky lights up in a spectacular display of fireworks. The perfect countdown to Christmas.
When: 17 – 21 December
Where: South Bank Parklands
The Nutcracker screening by Queensland Ballet
If you weren’t lucky enough to catch the live show or you simply want to see it again, the queensland Ballet are offering a rare opportunity to view a screening of the sparkling dance and spectacular sets for free on the big screen.
When: 21 December
Where: The Courier-Mail Piazza
Le Spectacle Cabaret du Carnaval
A breathtaking and exhilarating performance by Evoke Theatre & Dance Company. Featuring a fusion of contemporary, world dance and theatre, the proceeds from this spectacular show will go to Amnesty International.
When: 20 December
Where: Queensland Multicultural Centre
New Year’s Eve Fireworks Spectacular
Bring the family and secure a spot early to take in one of two incredible fireworks display. Young kids can enjoy an early show at 8:30pm, and for those wanting to party on there will be another show at midnight.