The Iglu Guide | Blog
Summer guide to Brisbane
Summer’s finally here, and student living just got even better. With sunshine on tap and plenty to do, Brisbane has got you covered this holiday season. Here’s the excuse everyone needs to roll out of bed and leave their student accommodation far behind.
Culture Vulture alert
Nothing screams culture quite like Brisbane’s QAGOMA – the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art. Unassumingly nestled on Southbank, this summer the Queensland Art Gallery is home to Embodied Knowledge: Queensland, a group of commissioned work made by women, people of colour and LGTBQ+ artists with a connection to Queensland. Featuring paintings, dance and installations, it’s completely free and definitely worth a visit before closing on Jan 22. Just next door at the Gallery of Modern Art, Air showcases immersive and large scale works by leading artists from around the world. Exploring the cultural, ecological and political dimensions of air, there is also an impressive and eye-catching centrepiece installation. With concession tickets available at just $18, it’s the perfect way for students to spend the day. Lighten up with a visit to Six, the toe-tapping singalonga musical that has taken the world by storm. At the Queensland Performing Arts Centre between Dec 30-Feb 19, it cleverly tells the story of Henry VIII’s six wives, had they gone on to live their best lives. And if live theatre’s your thing, tune in to Breaking, an interactive and experimental experience available from the comfort of your own student accomodation. Book between Dec 14-17 and watch unrehearsed guest actors perform in a digital theatre experience, thanks to Counterpilot and award-winning Australian Playwright, Maxine Mellor. Fancy a seasonal treat? Make it Hamilton, the world’s most talked-about production from Lin-Manuel Miranda that is finally coming to Brisbane at the end of January. Buckle up for the ride because it’s fast-paced, highly addictive and will leave every student wanting more.
Festival fever
Ain’t no summer vibes without a festival or two, and this summer Brisbane has got all musical tastes covered. Dance music fans will not want to miss Wildlands in Brisbane Showgrounds on Jan 7, featuring some of the most exciting electronic, pop and hip hop artists in the world. Think Cloonee, Diplo, Kaytranada and Tkay Maidza just for starters. Book now to avoid disappointment. Folk music fans will love the chilled vibes at Woodford Folk Festival from Dec 27-Jan 1. The largest of its kind in Australia, this is the festival to choose for anyone interested in switching up their student apartment for a canvas alternative. Offering live music, dance, street theatre and comedy to name just a few, Woodford Folk Festival is definitely back with a bang. And that’s not the only festival that’s making a comeback after a long two-year absence. St Jerome’s Laneway Festival is heading back to Brisbane Showgrounds on Feb 4 featuring none other than Phoebe Bridgers, alongside other popular artists like Haim, Joji and Finneas – big brother to none other than Billie Eilish. And if that’s not enough for any student, don’t pass up the opportunity on Feb 12 to see Angus and Julia Stone at SummerSalt in Broadwater Parklands. Pack a picnic, watch the sunset and prepare to chill. How good does that sound?
Going live
Electronic music fans will love to catch Caribou live at The Tivoli in Fortitude valley on Dec 15. With accessibly priced general admission tickets, you’ll be transported to the Ibizan landscape in seconds. Switch it up with Joey Bada$$, founding member of hip hop collective Pro Era and advocate of the golden age of hip hop. Featuring his latest release titled 2000, jump on board as Joey journeys back to his roots. British Indie rockers Artic Monkeys are tearing up the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens on Jan 11, featuring their seventh and latest album The Car. Don’t miss the opportunity to see them live and uncut. For live performances of the non-musical variety, discerning students will enjoy the Last Podcast on the Left on Jan 24 at the Brisbane Powerhouse, or a window into Alan Cumming’s world on Jan 5 at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre.
Student fun for free
The beauty of Brisbane is that the great outdoors doesn’t cost a cent, and with sunshine on tap there’s no excuses for students to stay inside. Hike up Mount Coot-Tha, wander through QAGOMA or ride up and down the river on the free CityHopper. Check out the Riverwalk that tracks the Brisbane River or try the City Centre Heritage Trail. There’s something for everyone this Summer in Brisbane!
