If you’re looking for a vibrant, family-friendly event near Brisbane this autumn, Hills Carnivale 2025 is a must.
Held at George Willmore Park in Ferny Hills—part of the Moreton Bay Region just north-west of Brisbane—this annual community celebration marks the grand finale of the Hills Festival.
It brings together live music, markets, multicultural food and entertainment for all ages.
This free-entry event takes place on Saturday, 31 May 2025, from 12:00pm to 7:00pm, and draws thousands of visitors from Brisbane’s outer suburbs and the Moreton Bay community.
Everything You Need to Know About Hills Carnivale in Brisbane 2025
Hills Carnivale is a much-loved local event that transforms George Willmore Park into a lively festival ground, filled with live performances, kids’ activities, food trucks, market stalls and a spectacular fireworks show to close out the evening.
Running for one day only, it showcases the best of the Hills District’s community spirit, cultural diversity and welcoming local vibe—perfect for families and newcomers alike.
Hills Carnivale 2025 Event Details – Time, Location, and Highlights
- Date: Saturday 31 May 2025
- Time: 12:00pm – 7:00pm
- Location: George Willmore Park, 52 Ferny Way, Ferny Hills
- Entry: Free
Live Music Schedule at Hills Carnivale
Live entertainment is a key feature of Hills Carnivale, with a packed line-up on the Main Stage presented by the Moreton Bay Food + Wine Festival and Keperra Golf Club.
Main Stage Program:
- 12:10pm – Nicole Tate
- 1:00pm – Asa Broomhall
- 2:00pm – Amy Kate
- 3:00pm – Leena Salim
- 4:00pm – Mercury Sunset
- 5:00pm – The Seven of Ska
- 6:00pm – Fusion X
- 7:00pm – Fireworks spectacular
With a mix of acoustic sets, energetic ska and local indie talent, there’s something to suit every musical taste.
Kids Zone at Hills Carnivale
The dedicated Kids Zone runs from 12:00pm to 6:00pm, offering non-stop fun with stage shows, workshops and hands-on activities.
Kids Stage Highlights:
- Janey’s Bubble Party
- Let’s Bollywood Dance Workshop
- Magic and Circus Show with Juggling Liam
- Spuddy and Scoot Musical Puppet Show
- Happy Singing Kids
- Wildlife Unleashed
- Recycleman
- Allioopsy
Other free kids activities:
- Face painting
- Toddler soft play area
- Green Thumbs Farm craft workshop
- Musical play zone by Wonder Wagon
- Wildlife meet-and-greets
- Puppet workshop
- First Five Forever library activities
Amusement rides are only $5 each, or grab a bundle of five for $20—great value for families.
Food Trucks and Local Market Stalls at Hills Carnivale 2025
Beyond the rides and music, Hills Carnivale is a feast for the senses. Dozens of local stallholders and food trucks will be on-site, offering everything from handmade crafts to global street eats.
Market Highlights:
- Handmade jewellery and gifts
- Fashion and accessories
- Eco-friendly and artisan products
- Local lifestyle and homewares
Food options include:
- Woodfired pizzas
- Vietnamese street food
- Gourmet burgers
- Vegan and gluten-free meals
- Churros, doughnuts, and frozen treats
It’s one of the best opportunities in the Moreton Bay Region to sample local flavours and support small business.
Who Will Love Hills Carnivale – Perfect for Brisbane Families and Visitors
Whether you’re a local to the Hills District or new to Brisbane, Hills Carnivale offers a relaxed, inclusive atmosphere that appeals to:
- Families looking for a fun day out
- New residents wanting to connect with their local community
- Couples after a casual outdoor date
- Food and market lovers
- Retirees and community groups
- Day-trippers exploring north-west Brisbane
If you’re considering moving to Ferny Hills, Arana Hills, or nearby, this is the perfect event to get a feel for the lifestyle in this part of Moreton Bay.
How to Get to Hills Carnivale Ferny Hills – Parking, Train & Bus Info
By Car:
Around 25 minutes from Brisbane CBD. Take Kelvin Grove Road > Enoggera Road > Samford Road > Dawson Parade > Patricks Road > Ferny Way. Parking is available in surrounding streets.
By Train:
Catch the Ferny Grove Line and get off at Ferny Grove Station. From there, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the park.
By Bus:
The BNFG Ferny Grove bus route from Roma Street takes around 35 minutes, with a short walk at the end.
By Bike or On Foot:
Use the Kedron Brook Bikeway or local walking paths connecting suburbs like Arana Hills, Everton Hills, and Ferny Grove.
Things to Do Near Hills Carnivale – Explore Ferny Hills and Samford
Make a full day of your visit with some nearby local attractions:
- Samford Conservation Park – Great for morning bushwalks or wildlife spotting.
- Samford Village – A short drive away, with cafes, boutiques, and artisan goods.
- Ferny Grove Tavern – Ideal for a pre-event lunch or relaxed post-Carnivale drink.
- Kedron Brook Bikeway – Scenic and family-friendly for a walk or cycle through the district.
Insider Tips for Hills Carnivale – Make the Most of Your Day Out
Arrive early to claim a shady picnic spot.
Bring sunscreen, a water bottle, and maybe a fold-up chair.
If you’re coming with kids, explore the free activities early before the rides and markets get busy.
And definitely stay for the fireworks—it’s a crowd favourite and the perfect end to a community celebration.
Why Hills Carnivale is One of Brisbane’s Best Free Events in 2025
Hills Carnivale offers a genuine slice of life in Brisbane’s north-west corridor, combining big entertainment with a strong local feel.
It’s free, family-focused, and packed with things to do, making it one of the best free events in Brisbane and Moreton Bay this year.
For more local event guides, family activities, and suburb insights across Brisbane and the Moreton Bay Region, visit Moving to Brisbane – your guide to settling into Queensland’s capital and beyond.
