Things to do this Spring

Explore Southeast Queensland this Spring: Top Activities and Events

Spring in Southeast Queensland is a time of vibrant festivals, outdoor adventures, and picturesque landscapes waiting to be explored. Whether you're a local looking for new experiences or a visitor planning your itinerary, here are some must-try activities and events to make the most of this season:

🎆 Brisbane Riverfire - Saturday 6 September 

This dazzling fireworks extravaganza kicks off the Brisbane Festival, lighting up the Brisbane River skyline in a symphony of colour. ADF aerial displays begin around 5:00 pm, with fireworks starting at approximately 6:45 pm from barges, bridges, and rooftops across the city.
Pack a rug, grab a spot along South Bank or the river’s edge, and settle in for an iconic Brisbane evening.

🎭 Brisbane Festival - 5 to 27 September

Following Riverfire, the Brisbane Festival transforms the entire city into a stage for culture and creativity. Over 1,000 performances—including theatre, dance, music and installations—unfold across parks, laneways and heritage venues from 5th –27th September.
Events range from free street art activations by Craig & Karl to thrilling world premieres, concerts and more.

🌺 Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers - 12 September to 6 October

Just a scenic drive to the west, Toowoomba bursts into bloom for nearly four weeks this Spring. From 12th September to 6th October, the Carnival showcases award-winning floral displays in Queens Park and Laurel Bank Park, food events, live music, and the spectacular Grand Central Floral Parade on
Saturday, 20th September.
Whether you’re exploring blooms by day or feasting and dancing by night, it’s a garden city in full celebration.

🏕️ More Ways to Explore Spring

Camping Escapes

Take to nature in style: lakeside serenity, farm stays, or beachfront bliss. Whether you're pitching a tent beside Lake Somerset, waking on a family farm near Toowoomba, or parking under the stars at Sunshine Coast beaches, camping offers flexible road‑trip adventures perfect for Spring.

City Botanic Gardens

Pilots of tranquillity, Brisbane’s City Botanic Gardens play host to picnic mats, guided walks and shady escapes. It’s a leafy pocket in the heart of the city—ideal for a restful weekend with friends and family.

Water Adventures

Get out on the water and enjoy Brisbane from a fresh angle. Join a river cruise, paddle through the Noosa Everglades, kayak on inland lakes, or go fishing off the coast. It’s both thrilling and refreshing.

Take a Hike

Lovely trails just outside Brisbane await: explore Glass House Mountains, climb Mount Mee, or trek in Lamington National Park. The views stretch across forests, valleys and wildlife-rich hinterlands.

Animal Encounters

Meet native and exotic creatures across Southeast Queensland:

• Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary (koalas, kangaroos)
• Australia Zoo (big cats, crocs, acts)
• Summer Land Camels (camel rides by the beach)
• Mountview Alpaca Farm (feeding experience, vineyard creekside picnic) 
• Lyell Deer Sanctuary (field visits, feeding experiences)

Off‑road Adventures

Fuel your sense of adventure along 4×4 tracks like:

• Condamine River Crossings 
• Mount Mee Trails  
• Landcruiser Mountain Park.

It’s rugged terrain and Queensland hinterland exploration at its finest.

🚗 Before You Hit the Road

Spring in SEQ beckons with festivals, hiking trails, camping grounds, wildlife encounters, and coastal adventures. Before setting off on your journey—whether it’s for Riverfire fireworks or floral strolls—make sure your car is up‑to‑date with its servicing, tyres, brakes and fluids. A well‑maintained vehicle lets you explore worry‑free and soak up Spring in full bloom.