Royal Queensland Show Holiday
Public holidays for agricultural shows across Queensland vary from region to region. The most well-known Show holiday is for the Royal Queensland Show (Ekka's) People's Day. This is a holiday to celebrate the annual agricultural show - Ekka. This year it's on Wednesday August 13, 2025. One common misunderstanding is whether Ipswich and other local government areas and regions observe the same public holiday as Brisbane does for the Ekka. This confusion often impacts planning for both families and businesses within the Ipswich local government area.
Does Ipswich Get the Brisbane Ekka Holiday?
Ipswich does not receive a public holiday for the Royal Queensland Show (Ekka). In Queensland, each local government area determines its own 'show day' holiday rather than sharing a single statewide celebration. The Ekka public holiday, typically held on a Wednesday in August, applies exclusively to Brisbane residents and businesses who fall in the City of Brisbane. This year it will fall on Wednesday August 13, 2025. This system of regional show holidays allows communities throughout Queensland to celebrate their distinct agricultural traditions and local industries, as well as celebrating the Royal Queensland Show (Ekka). Ipswich follows this pattern with its own designated show holiday that falls on a different date entirely in May. Residents of Ipswich who work in Brisbane may still receive the Ekka holiday off, but this depends entirely on their workplace location rather than their residence.
Ipswich’s Own Show Holiday
Ipswich celebrates its own show holiday in May, coinciding with the annual Ipswich Show. This is an officially recognised regional public holiday that provides locals with time to attend and participate in the community’s largest local agricultural event.
Many Queensland shows have long and proud histories. Some, like the Royal Queensland Show (Ekka) date back as far as 1876. Queensland agricultural shows are important events on local calendars throughout the state. People of all ages and from all walks of life, whether city or country, enjoy attending their local show.
The Ipswich Show has been a cornerstone of local culture for generations, showcasing the region’s agricultural achievements, horticultural displays, and industrial innovations. As a significant event in the community calendar, the show features livestock competitions, produce exhibitions, entertainment, and activities that celebrate the region’s rural heritage and contemporary industries. The Ipswich Show holiday specifically acknowledges the importance of this local annual show to the local community and economy, providing residents with the opportunity to attend without taking time off work in May. This separate holiday ensures the community can maintain its unique traditions, while also being able to celebrate the Ekka in August.
How It Differs from Brisbane’s Ekka
The Royal Queensland Show, fondly known as the Ekka, is a large scale annual event that celebrates the best of Queensland. Smaller agricultural shows, like the Ipswich Show, play a key role in providing a smaller platform for locals and a chance to get them ready for centre stage at Ekka.
The Ekka has long provided a chance for Queenslanders (and those from further afar) to benchmark their livestock, horticulture and talents against the state's best. It also provides inspiration and connections.
While Brisbane celebrates the Royal Queensland Show (Ekka) in August, Ipswich holds its show holiday in May. The Ipswich Show remains focused on local agricultural and community achievements, whereas the Ekka has evolved into a larger state showcase. For Ipswich residents, the most practical difference is that they don’t automatically get the Ekka Wednesday off unless they work in Brisbane. Each celebration maintains its distinct character and timing, reflecting the regional holiday approach that Queensland has adopted for its agricultural shows.
Ekka fast facts
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The Ekka will run from August 9 - 17, 2025 at the Brisbane Showgrounds, 600 Gregory Terrace, Bowen Hills.
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The Ekka's public holiday known as People's Day or the show holiday will be held on August 13, 2025.
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Gates open everyday from 9:00am and for closing times click here.
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The Ekka attracts more than 21,000 competition entries, 10,000 animals, world-class live entertainment, award-winning food and wine, rides, showbags and more.
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The Ekka has been running since 1876 and is full of traditions, a unique atmosphere and childhood memories that have been passed down through generations.
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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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Pre purchase tickets online at the Ekka website and sign up to receive discounts.
