Get swept away by the lights of the Brisbane Festival
The Brisbane Festival is making its way to the sunny city this September and it's going to be an action packed, fun-filled time for all, so get ready to book your tickets and make your way to this extravaganza.
From September 6 until 27 Brisbane will host a number of exciting events, culminating in the thrilling Sunsuper Riverfire fireworks display on the night of Saturday September 27.
What kind of festivities can you expect to enjoy throughout the month of September? Everything from world-class music to theatre, dance, comedy, opera and even circus acts, and that's only the beginning.
These various pursuits will be held primarily around the South Bank area, with the River Quay, Cultural Centre, Telstra Spiegeltent, QPAC and Courier-Mail Piazza some of the central venues for your entertainment.
One highlight to look forward to is the Exxopolis by Architects of Air, a spectacular interactive, inflatable and walk-in sculpture experience. Step inside, wander through the twisting and turning paths, gaze up as the expansive domes and wonder at the mix of Gothic and Islamic design, full of light and colour.
Music enthusiasts won't want to miss the Santos GLNG Twilight Music Series, which will take place along the Brisbane River, and best of all it's free.
The LIMBO show is another must-see for adults, with provocative performances of circus-cabaret featuring daring acrobatics, stunts, contortions and illusions. With features such as strobe and haze lighting, it's like a whole other world.
Love jazz? Then you'll simply have to attend Jazz on Sunday, which features a different act every Sunday afternoon for two hours at the Telstra Spiegeltent. Look forward to jazz heavyweights such as Natalie de Jager, Paul Grabowsky Sextet and Vince Jones.
"Step inside, wander through the twisting and turning paths, gaze up as the expansive domes and wonder at the mix of Gothic and Islamic design, full of light and colour."
In between events don't forget to pay a visit to the Telstra Spiegeltent Garden Bar. Meet up with friends to enjoy a beverage or few at this open-air bar decorated with gorgeous lights that's sure to be a hive of activity as people come and go.
Finally, the Sunsuper Riverfire on the festival's final night cannot be missed. Fireworks will light up the sky during the event with pyrotechnics and other amazing feats, music and entertainment to enjoy. Some of the best vantage points for the action include the South Bank, Kangaroo Point Cliffs, Victoria Bridge, City Riverwalk and more.
Check out the special range of bars and companies offering front-row views of the glittering display, such as Riverlife, which is an open-air boathouse style venue along the Brisbane River. This establishment is offering up specials for meals, drinks, live entertainment and of course, some of the best views on offer in Brisbane.
Where to stay in Brisbane
You'll want to be as close to the action as possible for the duration of your stay, so that means booking your holiday accommodation early to make sure you don't miss out.
A stay at Mantra South Bank will ensure you can enjoy all the festivities right on your doorstep. Book a hotel room, studio apartment, or one or two bedroom apartments to suit you and the needs of your travelling group. You might even want to consider a city view apartment so you can look right out the window to see the city light up during the festival.
During your stay at Mantra South Bank, you will also get to enjoy a great range of facilities, including a 20m heated lap pool, spa and fully equipped gymnasium. Plus, there's the Stone Restaurant and Bar on the ground floor, which is becoming incredibly popular for its delicious fresh, seasonal fare, so head there for breakfast, lunch or dinner - or order in to your room!