Sails, Cinema, and Sunset Fireworks: Your Good Friday Guide to Brisbane

Community Spirit Shines at the Bluewater Festival

While the CBD settles into a quiet rhythm for the Good Friday public holiday, the bayside comes alive with one of the city's most cherished annual traditions. The Bluewater Festival, hosted at Moora Park and the iconic Shorncliffe Pier, is in full swing today from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. This community-led event offers a perfect escape for families and locals looking to soak up the coastal atmosphere.

Visitors can spend the morning browsing a variety of local markets and food stalls lining the waterfront. The festival is packed with entertainment, featuring:

• Live bands performing throughout the day on the main stage.
• Interactive kids' workshops and carnival rides for the younger ones.
• A beach party atmosphere that builds as the afternoon turns to evening.
• A spectacular fireworks display over the Shorncliffe Pier to cap off the night.

The festival serves as the perfect vantage point for the start of the historic yacht race heading north, providing a stunning backdrop of white sails against the blue waters of Moreton Bay.

Culture and Cinema: The Alliance Française French Film Festival

If you are looking for an indoor cultural experience, the Alliance Française French Film Festival continues its 2026 season today. While major public galleries and museums are closed for the holiday, select cinemas—including the Palace Barracks and Palace James Street—are hosting dedicated screenings of the finest contemporary French cinema.

Today’s schedule includes a curated selection of gripping dramas and lighthearted comedies from France and the Francophone world. It is an ideal opportunity to escape the heat and immerse yourself in world-class storytelling. Many sessions include the festival's signature hospitality, such as themed screenings where you can enjoy a quiet moment of reflection with a film that captures the creativity and vitality of French culture.

Good Friday Logistics and Local Tips

As today is a major public holiday, please be aware that most large-scale institutions like the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), and the State Library of Queensland are closed. Retail hours are also significantly restricted, so the Bluewater Festival remains the primary destination for dining and shopping today.

For those heading to Shorncliffe, public transport is highly recommended as parking near Moora Park will be limited. Use the Shorncliffe train line for a direct and scenic route to the heart of the festivities. Whether you are there for the sunset fireworks or a quiet morning at the cinema, today offers a unique chance to experience Brisbane’s relaxed holiday charm.