The Ekka, or the Royal Queensland Show, is an annual event in Brisbane that showcases agriculture and offers a range of entertainment. It’s a significant cultural event for the city and provides a look into Queensland’s heritage.
The event takes place at the Brisbane Showgrounds in Bowen Hills, which is close to the city center. The Ekka is known for bringing together aspects of country and city life.
What to See
The Ekka has a variety of attractions for visitors.
Animals: You can see a wide range of animals, including cattle, sheep, and poultry in the livestock pavilions. There is also an animal nursery with baby farm animals. Equestrian events, dog shows, and sheepdog trials are also part of the daily schedule.
Rides and Games: Sideshow Alley features carnival rides, such as dodgem cars and a Ferris wheel, as well as other thrill rides. There are also carnival games available.
Showbags: A well-known part of the Ekka is the “showbag.” These are themed bags containing a variety of items, such as food, toys, and other merchandise. There are many different showbags to choose from, catering to various interests and budgets.
Food: The Ekka has a number of well-known food items. These include:
- Strawberry Sundaes: A popular dessert made with strawberries and ice cream, with proceeds supporting a local charity.
- Dagwood Dogs: A deep-fried sausage on a stick.
- CWA Scones: Scones with jam and cream are available from the Country Women’s Association.In addition to these, there are many other food stalls offering a variety of cuisines and carnival food.
Night Show: In the evening, the Main Arena hosts EkkaNITES, a show that includes fireworks, stunt performances, and live music.
People’s Day
The city of Brisbane observes a public holiday for the Ekka called “People’s Day,” which will be on Wednesday, August 13th, 2025. This is typically one of the busiest days of the event.
Getting There
The Brisbane Showgrounds are accessible by public transport. The Exhibition railway station is located within the showgrounds and will be open during the Ekka. There are also bus services that stop near the venue. For those driving, there are parking options in the vicinity.
For visitors to Brisbane in August, the Ekka offers a chance to experience a long-standing local tradition that combines agricultural heritage with modern entertainment.