The Royal Queensland Show – Ekka 2027

The Royal Queensland Show – Ekka

The Ekka traces back to 1876, when the newly formed Royal National Agricultural and Industrial Association staged its first Intercolonial Exhibition, drawing an astonishing 15,000–17,000 people on opening day alone — at a time when Brisbane’s entire population was barely 20,000. It became a “Royal” show in 1921 under royal warrant from King George V, and has grown into Queensland’s largest annual event.

Held annually each August at the Brisbane Showgrounds, the nine-day show blends serious agricultural competition with carnival entertainment on a huge scale, welcoming around 400,000 visitors each year — including a public holiday for Brisbane locals on Show Day.

Show Highlights:

• Animal Nursery: Running since 1964, this beloved attraction lets visitors pat, cuddle, and feed hundreds of farm animals, from lambs and piglets to chicks and puppies.
• Sideshow Alley: A huge stretch of carnival rides ranging from family-friendly to extreme, alongside classic show games and attractions that have been a Queensland tradition for generations.
• Woodchop & Ring Events: Traditional woodchopping and horse-riding displays fill the main arena, a nod to the show’s agricultural roots.
• Agricultural Competitions: Livestock judging, produce displays, and craft competitions showcase the best of Queensland’s farming and rural communities across the showgrounds’ pavilions.

Tips for Visitors & Trip Planning:

• Tickets: General admission tickets are sold online in advance and at the gate, with discounted family and multi-day options — book ahead for the busiest weekend days.
• Getting Around the Showgrounds: The site is large, spanning pavilions, the main arena, and Sideshow Alley, so grab a map early and prioritise the must-see events and animal displays for your day.
• Getting There: The Brisbane Showgrounds sit at Bowen Hills, an easy train ride from the CBD via the dedicated Exhibition line that runs during the show — public transport is strongly preferred over driving given the crowds.
• What to Wear: Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential for the showgrounds’ concrete and grass areas, with sun protection for daytime outdoor arena events.
• Accommodation: Brisbane’s accommodation gets busy during Ekka, especially around the Show Day public holiday, so booking well in advance is strongly recommended.
• Explore Brisbane: Make the most of your trip with the rest of the city’s attractions — browse top Brisbane tours and activities here.

The full arena schedule and entertainment program are published closer to the event. See details below, under “Event Related Information” section.