Brisbane is set for a packed 2026 line-up of major sporting, cultural and entertainment events that are expected to energise the city, support local jobs, and strengthen its AUD$13.7bn visitor economy. Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA) is supporting more than 100 of these events in 2026. They are expected to inject hundreds of millions of dollars into the economy, reinforcing the city’s claim to be Australia’s lifestyle capital and its number one sporting city.
The major events calendar for the new year launched with the star-studded Brisbane International tennis, while February features FINN class sailing regattas and the historic Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Celebrating its 75th anniversary, the world-famous spectacle will bring more than 1,000 performers, massed pipes and drums, and international military bands to Suncorp Stadium.
Global musician Sting’s acclaimed musical The Last Ship will make its Southern Hemisphere premiere at QPAC’s brand-new Glasshouse Theatre from April to May 2026, while cycling fans gear up the Brisbane Cycling Festival and Tour de Brisbane in April. NRL Magic Round Brisbane returns 14–17 May with all eight Round 11 matches at Suncorp Stadium, alongside the second Ampol Women’s State of Origin* match, followed by the EVA Air Brisbane Marathon Festival in June, Wallabies Nations Championship Test against France and UCI BMX Racing World Championships in July.
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said Brisbane’s 2026 calendar of events would deliver world-class entertainment and powerful economic returns. “As Australia’s lifestyle capital, Brisbane’s major events deliver unforgettable experiences for locals and visitors alike, all while backing local jobs and businesses. “From sport to art, culture and music, our blockbuster 2026 lineup cements Brisbane as a must-visit global destination today, tomorrow and on the road to Brisbane 2032.”
Brisbane Festival will once again transform the city into a vibrant cultural playground,4–26 September, while BIGSOUND takes over Fortitude Valley 1–4 September, as one of the world’s leading music showcases. Melt Festival also returns for its third year. Music fans will also be spoilt with a run of concerts including Lorde, Ed Sheeran, Jason Aldean, Linkin Park*, and On the Banks – a new outdoor live concert series in South Bank.
For more information on Brisbane’s calendar of events, visit https://visit.brisbane.qld.au/ *These events are not officially supported by BEDA. Photo: Brisbane Cycling Festival, courtesy of EDA