BrisAsia Festival and The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Lead Friday's Vibrant Lineup

A Spectacle of Culture and Tradition in the River City

Brisbane is set for a blockbuster Friday, 13 February 2026, as several of the year's most anticipated festivals and international productions officially kick off. Whether you are looking for high-octane street culture, world-class theatre, or immersive art, the city has a diverse range of verified events to fill your schedule.

Major Festivals and Iconic Performances

• BrisAsia Festival: Southside by Night

  Today marks the opening of the 2026 BrisAsia Festival. The festivities begin with 'Southside by Night' at the Unidus Community Centre in Willawong from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. This free community event celebrates street culture, featuring a showcase of luxury and performance cars, hip-hop performances, and local DJ sets. It is a family-friendly evening designed to bring the city’s diverse communities together through music and street food.

• The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

  Suncorp Stadium transforms into a stage of epic proportions tonight for the legendary Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Celebrating its 75th anniversary, the production features over 1,000 performers, including the Massed Pipes and Drums from UK Military regiments. Expect a stirring display of Scottish tradition, military precision, and international cultural performances.

Theatre, Music, and Live Shows

The cultural precinct at South Bank is buzzing with activity this evening:

• The Great Gatsby at QPAC

  Step into the roaring twenties at the QPAC Playhouse as Queensland Theatre and Shake & Stir Theatre Co present a glittering new production of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic. The performance brings the gin-soaked world of Jay Gatsby to life with a modern, high-energy twist.

• Gillian Welch & David Rawlings

  For music lovers, the legendary duo Gillian Welch and David Rawlings return to the QPAC Concert Hall at 8:00 pm. Their performance is part of a highly anticipated Australian tour, showcasing their unique blend of Americana and folk.

• Solve-Along-A-Murder-She-Wrote

  For something completely different, head to the Brisbane Powerhouse for an interactive screening of the classic television show. This comedic 'solve-along' allows the audience to participate in cracking the case while enjoying the retro charm of the 1980s.

Galleries and Unique Exhibitions

• Olafur Eliasson: Presence at GOMA

  The Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) continues its exclusive exhibition by Icelandic-Danish artist Olafur Eliasson. This multi-sensory journey includes immersive installations like the 'Riverbed' and the 'cubic structural evolution project,' where visitors can help build a massive LEGO city.

• The Art of Banksy: Without Limits

  Located in the Uptown precinct at Queen Street Mall, this massive exhibition features over 300 works from the elusive street artist, including original pieces, holograms, and interactive installations.