What You Need to Know for Your Visit
Ekka Essentials
The Royal Queensland Show, affectionately known as Ekka, is a 9-day event from Friday 9 August until Sunday 17 August 2025 held at the Brisbane Showgrounds.
The family friendly Royal Queensland Show features iconic competitions, animals, rides, entertainment, fireworks, carnival and gourmet food, showbags, and strawberry sundaes, among other attractions.
The Ekka is a must-visit for anyone living in or visiting Brisbane, Queensland.
Catching public transport is the easiest and most efficient way to get to the show.
The Ekka website is the best place to find information on tickets, discounts, schedules, parking and attractions. For lost and found services, visit the Guest Services desk located in the Royal International Convention Centre or contact us.
Getting to the Ekka and Ekka Tickets
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The Ekka is held at the Brisbane Showgrounds, 600 Gregory Terrace, Bowen Hills.
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Gates open every day from 9:00am and for closing times click here.
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Public transport is the recommended way to get to the Ekka, with options including train and bus, but nearby parking is also available.
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Consider staying in a hotel in the CBD or Fortitude Valley for easy access to the Ekka.
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Pre purchase tickets online at the Ekka website.
Food and Drink Options
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Traditional favourites include dagwood dogs, hot chips, and strawberry sundaes.
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Try the many delicious options from the food halls, food trucks and restaurants.
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Use the Ekka Food Finder tool to search for all the bites available during the Show.
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The Ekka allows you to bring your own picnic lunch, which is a cost-effective option.
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Water stations are provided around the grounds where attendees can fill up their water bottles free of charge.
Ekka Attractions and Displays
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Competitions feature sheep, cattle, cats, dogs, goats, horses, poultry, sheep, and fish, woodchop and sawing and more.
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The animal nursery has over 550 farmyard animals, and you can even cradle baby chicks, all included in your Ekka entry ticket.
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Displays include agriculture, cookery, decorated cakes, flowers and gardens, quilts, fish, honey and more.
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The Main Arena features a range of family friendly entertainment to watch including the popular night show with fireworks, monster trucks, live music and other exciting entertainment all included in your Ekka ticket.
Health, Safety, and Amenities
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Visit the Queensland Police stand at the police marquee to collect a free ID wristband for your child.
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Remind your child to stay close to you and your family or group at all times.
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Use the Ekka’s map to locate toilets and parent facilities, you can download a digital map, print or get one during Ekka.
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Practice good hygiene and hand washing, especially when visiting the animal nursery.
Sustainability and Environmental Initiatives
The Ekka is dedicated to making a positive impact on the environment through various sustainability initiatives. The Ekka has implemented several measures to minimise waste, conserve water, and reduce energy consumption.
Visitors will notice recycling programs for paper, plastic, and glass throughout the Brisbane Showgrounds. Additionally, food waste and organic materials are composted to ensure they are disposed of in an eco-friendly manner. The event also uses energy-efficient lighting and equipment, and water-saving measures are in place in all toilets and washbasins.
To further support these efforts, the Ekka encourages the use of trains, busses, walking, and cycling to the event. They have also partnered with environmentally responsible suppliers and vendors to ensure that sustainability is a priority across all aspects of the show.
You can play your part in these initiatives by bringing reusable bags and containers for your food and drinks, using public transport or carpooling to the event (with nearby parking available), and participating in the Ekka’s recycling programs. Together, we can make the Show a greener and more sustainable event for everyone.
Ekka's history
The Royal Queensland Show, affectionately known as the Ekka, boasts a rich history that dates back to 1876. The inaugural show was held in Brisbane with the aim of promoting agriculture, industry, and commerce. It provided a platform for farmers, producers, and manufacturers to showcase their products and innovations.
It's become one of the largest and most beloved events in the state. It attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, eager to experience the diverse range of activities and exhibits while celebrating Queensland agriculture. The show has been held annually, with the exception of a few years during World War I and II and the COVID-19 pandemic, reflecting its resilience and enduring popularity.
Today, the Ekka is a vibrant celebration of Queensland’s rural heritage. It continues to focus on agriculture and community, offering a wide array of attractions including animal exhibits, competitions, live music, food stalls, and entertainment for all ages. The Show remains a testament to the state’s rich history and its ongoing commitment to showcasing the best of Queensland.
Making the Most of Your Ekka Experience
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Pre plan your day out at the Ekka to make the most of your visit, while creating special memories.
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Book and pre purchase your Ekka tickets online from the Ekka website in advance to save time when you arrive and money.
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Take advantage of all the free activities, displays, entertainment and animals to see - all included in your Ekka ticket.
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People’s Day, which is a public holiday in Brisbane, is the Ekka's busiest day with the historical Grand Parade and a fun and lively atmosphere.
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If you have any questions regarding Ekka, visit our FAQ page or contact us here.
Ekka Enquiries Contact
