As Brisbane gears up for its most exciting time of the year, the Brisbane Festival 2024, all eyes are on the ANZ Festival Garden—a vibrant hub that has become synonymous with creativity, entertainment, and community spirit.
Located in South Brisbane, the ANZ Festival Garden offers visitors a delightful mix of performances, art installations, food, and much more.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this free, non-ticketed event is the perfect place to soak in the festival atmosphere and experience Brisbane’s cultural heartbeat.
ANZ Festival Garden 2024 Dates, Times, and Location
The ANZ Festival Garden will be open from 30 August to 21 September 2024, providing 20 days and nights of entertainment and wonder. Located at 186 Little Stanley Street in South Brisbane, this central venue is easily accessible and perfectly situated to offer stunning views of the Brisbane River and city skyline.
The garden will be open on the following schedule:
- Mon: Closed
- Tue–Thu: 5 PM–10 PM
- Fri–Sat: 4 PM–12 AM (midnight)
- Sun: 4 PM–10 PM
Admission to the ANZ Festival Garden is completely free, making it a welcoming space for everyone to enjoy.
The event is designed as a joyous celebration of community, where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together to experience the best of what Brisbane Festival has to offer.
Key Attractions and Activities at ANZ Festival Garden 2024
The ANZ Festival Garden is the beating heart of the Brisbane Festival, hosting a variety of live performances, interactive art installations, and culinary delights.
- Experience ChronoHarp: ANZ Festival Garden’s Interactive Art Installation
One of the standout attractions is ChronoHarp, an innovative and interactive art installation that reimagines the traditional harp as a visual and auditory spectacle. Set in the heart of the Festival Garden, ChronoHarp invites visitors to engage with its woven structure, which reacts to human movement by casting vibrant animations. As more people interact with the installation, the light will transform from a simple white prism into a dazzling, colourful display, culminating in a breathtaking light and sound show. - SeamTogether at Brisbane Festival: A Hands-On Sustainable Fashion Show
Another must-see is SeamTogether, a unique performance that blends art, storytelling, and social activism. SeamTogether introduces visitors to Polly and Esther, two modern-day superheroes on a mission to reduce the clothing footprint on our planet. With their one-hundred-year-old crank sewing machine, Esme, Polly and Esther invite audiences to participate in their haberdashery wonderland, where they can create, share, and listen to stories that transform old garments into new creations. SeamTogether is more than just a performance; it’s an interactive, hands-on experience that encourages visitors to connect with their clothing and think creatively about sustainability. - Gourmet Food and Drink at ANZ Festival Garden 2024
Visitors can indulge in a wide variety of culinary options, from gourmet street food to fine wines, all while enjoying the vibrant festival atmosphere. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a leisurely meal, the garden’s food stalls and pop-up bars offer a range of options to satisfy every palate.
Who Will Enjoy ANZ Festival Garden 2024? A Guide for All Ages
The ANZ Festival Garden is a welcoming space for everyone, making it the perfect destination for a diverse range of visitors.
Families will love the interactive installations and kid-friendly performances, while groups of friends can enjoy the lively atmosphere and late-night entertainment.
Couples looking for a unique date night will find the garden’s enchanting setting and live music the perfect backdrop for a memorable evening.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor to Brisbane, the ANZ Festival Garden offers an opportunity to experience the city’s vibrant cultural scene in a fun and relaxed environment.
The garden’s central location and free admission make it accessible to all, and the wide range of activities ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Top Things to Do Near ANZ Festival Garden at South Bank Brisbane
Located in the vibrant South Bank precinct, the ANZ Festival Garden is surrounded by some of Brisbane’s top attractions, making it easy to turn your visit into a full day of exploration and fun. Before or after immersing yourself in the festival atmosphere, consider checking out these nearby activities:
Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA): Just a short stroll from the Festival Garden, QAGOMA is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. The gallery features a stunning collection of contemporary and historical art from Australia and around the world. With free admission to the general exhibits, it’s an excellent way to enrich your cultural experience during the Brisbane Festival.
South Bank Parklands: Take a leisurely walk along the picturesque South Bank Parklands, where you can enjoy lush gardens, scenic river views, and vibrant public spaces. The parklands are perfect for a relaxing break or a picnic, offering a peaceful contrast to the bustling festival activities.
Wheel of Brisbane: For a bird’s eye view of the city, hop on the Wheel of Brisbane, located just a few minutes from the Festival Garden. This iconic Ferris wheel offers spectacular views of Brisbane’s skyline, river, and surrounding areas, making it a great way to capture the city’s beauty both during the day and at night.
River Quay Green: If you’re looking for a more laid-back vibe, head to River Quay Green, where you can unwind on the grass, enjoy live music, or have a picnic with friends and family. This serene spot by the river is ideal for soaking up the afternoon sun before heading over to the festival activities.
How to Get to ANZ Festival Garden: Transport and Parking Guide
Getting to the ANZ Festival Garden is convenient and easy, thanks to its prime location in South Brisbane. Here are some of the best ways to reach the event:
Public Transport: South Bank is well-serviced by public transport, making it accessible from all parts of Brisbane. If you’re taking the train, the closest station is South Brisbane Station, just a short walk from the Festival Garden. Alternatively, you can catch a bus to the Cultural Centre Bus Station, which is also within easy walking distance.
CityCat: For a scenic journey to the event, consider taking a CityCat ferry to South Bank Ferry Terminal. The ride along the Brisbane River offers beautiful views of the city, and the terminal is just a few minutes’ walk from the Festival Garden.
Driving: If you prefer to drive, there are several parking options available around South Bank, including the South Bank Parklands car park and various street parking options. However, parking can be limited during major events, so it’s advisable to arrive early or consider using public transport to avoid the hassle of finding a spot.
Cycling: For those who enjoy cycling, South Bank is easily accessible via Brisbane’s extensive network of bike paths. There are several bike racks available in the area where you can securely park your bike while you enjoy the festival.
Why You Should Visit ANZ Festival Garden 2024 at Brisbane Festival
The ANZ Festival Garden at Brisbane Festival 2024 is set to be one of the most exciting events of the year, offering a unique blend of art, music, food, and community spirit.
As a free, non-ticketed event, the ANZ Festival Garden is accessible to all, making it a must-visit during the Brisbane Festival.
With its central location in South Bank and a diverse range of activities, it’s the perfect place to gather with friends, family, or even on your own, to experience the very best of Brisbane’s cultural scene.
Mark your calendar and make sure you don’t miss out on this fantastic event.
Explore more events and plan your festival experience by visiting the full Brisbane Festival 2024 program.
