FAQs

FAQs

#General Festival Questions

What are the dates of Brisbane Festival 2024?

Brisbane Festival 2024 is planned to start on 31 August and end late in September. 

When is the Brisbane Festival 2024 program announced?

The Brisbane Festival 2024 program is out now. For a physical copy of the printed program sent directly to your door, request a copy here. To receive further announcements, join our email list and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

How do you ensure patron safety at Brisbane Festival?

The safety of our performers, audience members and staff is and always will be of paramount importance to us. Brisbane Festival will adhere to current COVID-19 restrictions as specified in the Queensland Chief Health Officer Public Health Directions. Read more on our Stay COVID Safe page. We look forward to delivering another safe and exciting program in 2024!

Can I use my camera or recording device inside the theatre?

Photography and recording during in-theatre performances is generally not allowed, however please check the individual event information available at the venue on the day or evening of the performance.


#Riverfire FAQs

Riverfire

What is the date of Riverfire in 2024? 

Riverfire will be at the start of the Festival on Saturday 31 August. 

Why has Riverfire moved to the start of the Festival? 

We believe Riverfire is a spectacular way to kickstart the excitement for 23 days of joy and wonder across our city and suburbs. 

With Riverfire now on opening weekend, we can bookend Brisbane Festival with another major celebration, our our three-dimensional multicolour drone show Skylore — The Rainbow Serpent

Another bonus in moving Riverfire forward is that it no longer clashes with school holidays when many families go away, so now they can all enjoy the most spectacular night of the year. 

Will there be COVID restrictions and crowd regulation at Riverfire? 

Brisbane Festival events, including Riverfire, will adhere to current COVID-19 restrictions as specified in the Queensland Chief Health Officer Public Health Directions. 

We hope there will be no restrictions but the best way to stay up to date with Festival news and announcements is to check for updates on our website and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Will there be ADF Aerial Displays in 2024? 

Details will be available closer to the event. Stay up to date with Festival news and announcements on our website, join our mailing list and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Where are the best viewing points for Riverfire? 

Best vantage points along the Brisbane River and surrounds will be released closer to the event. Of course, some of the best ways to enjoy Riverfire will again be Triple M’s live soundtracked broadcast and Channel Nine’s exclusive television coverage!

Will there be accessible viewing areas for Riverfire? 

As in previous years, Brisbane Festival will establish a dedicated accessible viewing platform at Kangaroo Point for people with disabilities and their companions. Bookings for 2024 will open closer to the event.

Will South Bank be fenced? 

South Bank is a popular place for families to watch Riverfire. The venue is fenced for public safety and will be closed if capacity is reached.  

What time can I enter the fenced area at South Bank? 

On the day of Riverfire, gates to the fenced area at South Bank will open at 9am. 

What can’t I bring to South Bank? 

Please don’t bring pets, bikes, scooters, drones, drink bottles with broken seals (including water bottles and soft drink), glass, metal cutlery or alcohol to South Bank for Riverfire. Those items will be confiscated by South Bank security staff on arrival.  

If you’re unsure about whether to bring an item, please contact the South Bank team via vicsouthbank@cityparklands.com.au. Bag checks will commence at 9am.  

Can I take my dog to South Bank? 

No. Dogs will not be permitted in the parklands for Riverfire. See the pet section below for recommendations on keeping your pets safe at home during the fireworks display. 

Can I take my own drinks or alcohol into South Bank? 

South Bank is an alcohol-free zone. Please do not bring glass, alcohol or any liquid in a container that has already been opened including reusable drink bottles. These items will be confiscated by South Bank security staff.  

Will Riverfire still be on if it rains? 

Yes, Riverfire will go ahead if it rains. Rain doesn’t affect the fireworks, which can proceed in wet weather and moderate wind, and will only be cancelled if winds are excessive.  

How can I hear the playlist for Riverfire

Tune in to Triple M to hear the playlist. South Bank, River Terrace and Capt Burke Park, Kangaroo Point Cliffs and Wilson Outlook, Fortitude Valley will have audio systems installed to play Triple M’s broadcast on the evening. 

Will roads be closed for Riverfire in 2024? 

There will be road, bridge and river closures affecting Brisbane City, South Brisbane, Kangaroo Point and Fortitude Valley areas. Details are will be added closer to the event.

How do I get a boat permit for Riverfire?

Applications for aquatic permits have closed and applications are being processed by Maritime Safety Queensland. The successful applicants will be notified by email once vehicle registrations have been verified. You can find more info on our Aquatics Permit page.

What should I do with my pet on Riverfire night? 

Here are some tips to ensure your animals are safe and secure: 

  • Contain your animal in your house or garage overnight; ensure there is a comfortable bed, plenty of water and some food. 

  • It is advisable to close the curtains and turn on the TV or radio to provide some distraction. 

  • Leave your pet with a friend or family member who is not going out. 

  • Always ensure your pet wears appropriate identification, just in case they do escape. If your dog becomes distressed during fireworks or thunder, speak to your local veterinarian as they may be able to recommend something to help keep animals calm. 

For more information on caring for your pets during Riverfire head to the RSPCA’s website

Will there be additional public transport services for Riverfire

Additional Citytrain, bus and Citycat services will operate to and from Riverfire. For full information about timetabled services, fares, temporary stops and additional services visit the TransLink website or call 13 12 30 closer to the event.

More information will be available on the TransLink website closer to the event. 

Can I use a drone during Riverfire

Due to the increased risk posed by low-flying aircraft and fireworks during the event and practice days, drones are prohibited to be flown within 1500m of the event venue areas (i.e. Brisbane City, South Brisbane, Kangaroo Point and Fortitude Valley) at any time, as such flights may pose a significant risk to both the aircraft and people viewing the event on the ground. Further information about the safe use of drones can be found on the CASA website. 

How does Brisbane Festival manage the environmental impact of fireworks? 

Foti Fireworks Queensland are the creators of Riverfire; they are a leading manufacturer of fireworks and the most awarded fireworks display company in Australia. 

Since March 2009 Foti has been offsetting the carbon emissions of all its business operations by purchasing carbon credits with the Carbon Reduction Institute, with certification that Foti has purchased sufficient credits in order to remain carbon neutral.  

Foti actively reduces waste created from its operations and maximises the use of recyclable and sustainable materials in all of its processes. Their materials management strategy aims to reduce the use of toxic and environmentally unfriendly materials from its fireworks products.  

Consideration is given to all areas of the manufacturing process of fireworks. Foti is a leader in the fireworks display industry for reducing the amount of perchlorate in its fireworks products. The company’s management strategy is evolving as more technologies become available and suitable chemical substitutes are found.

Will there be a dump and burn?

There will not be a dump and burn this year. The last F-111 dump and burn was in 2010. The practice, which started in 1998, was stopped because the planes replacing the F-111s did not have the ability to do a dump and burn.

#Lightscape FAQs

Dates, entry & event information

When is Lightscape open?

Lightscape runs from Thursday 29 August – Saturday 12 October

Open every day between Thursday 29 August to Sunday 29 September, aside from Friday 30 August, Tuesday 17 September and 26 September.
Open Wednesday 2 October to Sunday 6 October and Wednesday 9 October to Saturday 12 October.

See the Lightscape event page for all date and time information.

Tickets for this event are timed in 15-minute increments from 5:45pm onwards. Last entry onto the trail will be 10 minutes after the final advertised timeslot. 

Each event day, the City Botanic Gardens will close at 4:30pm and open to Lightscape audiences from 5:45pm onwards.

Where can I enter Lightscape?

The entrance to Lightscape is:

Brisbane City Botanic Gardens, GATE 1: Cnr Albert St and Alice St, Brisbane City

A box office will be available at the entrance if you need to pick up tickets at the event, or if you have any queries on the day.

What happens if it’s raining?

Lightscape will go ahead in the event of rain or wind, so check the weather forecast and dress appropriately. If the weather presents a hazard and a risk to safety, the Festival’s decision to cancel the event will be made at 2pm on the day of the event where possible. You will be notified via email of any cancellation and the re-booking process which will include the ability to book on another day or a refund if this is not possible. Please check our website and social media pages for updates.

How long is the trail? 

The trail is approximately 2kms around Brisbane City Botanic Gardens.  

How much time should we allow for this event? 

That depends on your pace and how often you stop. However, as a general rule, you should allow about 90 minutes to ensure you have enough time to enjoy the full experience. 

How should I dress for this event? 

This is an outdoor event, so please come prepared for the elements by wearing appropriate footwear and dressing warmly. Umbrellas are allowed on the trail, but we ask that you are courteous of other patrons when using them. 

Will there be a cloak room? 

No cloaking facilities will be supplied, so please travel light. 

Will there by food and drinks available? 

Yes, there will be a range of food on offer during the trail.

Can I bring food and drinks? 

No alcoholic drinks can be brought into the event; however, food and beverages will be available during the trail. This is a promenade event, so please do not bring eskies or picnics. 

Can I bring a chair? 

The experience is designed to be walked through, so no chairs are allowed. 

Are there restrooms along the trail? 

Yes, there are several areas along the trail that have restrooms for visitors. 

Can I take pictures? 

Absolutely and we would love you to share them! Be sure to tag #Lightscape #BrisFest and #sonymusic and tag @brisbanefestival in your posts on social media. For safety reasons no tripods or monopods will be allowed. 

Will the lights affect the animals? 

A Fauna Assessment Report has been undertaken by an external ecologist for Lightscape. The recommendations from this report have been incorporated into the planning of the event to minimise any impact on fauna. 

Can I explore other parts of the Gardens during Lightscape

No, you must remain on the designated Lightscape trail. Whilst you enjoy Lightscape please stay on the paths unless the stewards advise you otherwise. For your safety and to protect the Gardens, please do not walk in the garden beds or on the lawns. 

Ticket Information

Peak Tickets*

Adult

$42

Child (3-12 years)

$34

Family (2 adults & 2 children) **

$144

Regular Tickets*

Adult

$40

Child (3-12 years)

$32

Family (2 adults & 2 children) **

$136

Off-Peak Admission Tickets*

Adult

$32

Child (3-12 years)

$24

Family (2 adults & 2 children) **

$104

Anytime Access Admission

Anytime Access Tickets***

Peak

$58

Off-peak

$54


Groups of 20+ are eligible for a discount of 10% on Lightscape tickets.

Tickets purchased on the day (online and at the box office) will incur an additional fee of $4 per person.

*Price Tiers

Please see the calendar colour coding to determine which price tier you have selected.

**Family ticket price conditions

A family ticket admits 2 adults and 2 children. Children must be aged 12 years and under to be eligible for the family ticket. Children aged 3 years and under are free of charge.

***Anytime Pass ticket price conditions

An Anytime Pass permits access to the trail on a chosen date, any time between the first advertised time-slot and last entry (10 minutes after the last advertised time-slot).

Tickets are only valid on the date for which they are purchased. There are no child or family discounts on Anytime Pass tickets. Customers with an Anytime Pass may still be required to queue when they choose to enter.

Do you accept Companion Cards? 

Yes, holders of a government issued companion card can access a free ticket for their companion. Proof of eligibility will be required upon entry. 

Please book these tickets using the booking process or by calling Ticketek’s Accessible Line on 1300 665 915. 

Group Bookings

Groups of 20+ are eligible for a discount of 10% on Lightscape tickets. If you wish to buy more than 20 tickets for a group, please contact Ticketek here or by calling 1300 364 001.  

Do I have to book in advance?

We recommend booking in advance online. Each timed entry has a limited capacity, and we expect this event to sell out. Tickets will be on sale at the venue when not sold out, on events nights only.

If I book the wrong date, can I transfer my ticket to another date?

Unfortunately, this is not possible. It is important to make sure that you choose the right date and time slot when you buy tickets, as we are not able to offer exchanges or refunds after tickets have been purchased. 

If I am delayed and miss my timeslot, can I join a later slot?

Yes. We will accommodate you in the next available timeslot on the same night. 

If I am visiting Brisbane City Botanic Gardens during the day, will I have to leave the Gardens before entering Lightscape in the evening?

Yes, to ensure that only ticket holders for Lightscape have entry to the evening event, daytime visitors must vacate the Gardens. On Lightscape event days, the Gardens will close at 4:30pm and will reopen for ticketed guests at 5:45pm.

Accessibility

Are the pathways wheelchair accessible? 

The route is designed so that it can be navigated on paths. There are some paths whose gradients are steep and audience members may benefit from assistance.  

If the weather conditions prohibit the trail from being fully accessible, for those needing mobility devices (wheelchairs, walkers, etc.), consideration will be made on a case-by-case basis to allow for tickets to be transferred to alternate dates.  

If you have particular access requirements, please contact Ticketek here or by calling 1300 364001 for further enquiries. 

Is Accessibility parking available? 

Accessible car parking is available behind The Gardens Club (entry via Gardens Point Road).

Are strollers allowed? 

Yes, strollers are allowed.  

Are pets allowed? 

No pets allowed, except for service animals. 

Is there white strobe lighting or flashing lighting effects? 

Some lighting sequences will include flashing, flickering and pattered effects, however there will be no strobe lighting. 

Will smoke or haze effects be used? 

Smoke and haze effects may be used in some areas of the trail.

#Ticketing FAQs

How do I buy tickets?

All tickets can be booked online via our website or over the phone. You can find more information on our Ticketing Information page or each production’s event page.

I want to cancel/change/refund my ticket.

Once a sale is finalised, there will be no refunds, cancellations or exchanges, except as provided for in the LPA Ticketing Code of Practice for event ticketing. Please see our Ticketing Information page for more information.

I bought my ticket from a ticket resale website, will it be valid?

Ticket sale/resale scams are common when purchasing tickets from unofficial channels such as Viagogo, eBay, Gumtree and Facebook Marketplace. Patrons are advised to avoid purchasing tickets through these channels. 

Not only will purchasing tickets through these channels potentially expose patrons to fraud, any tickets purchased through unauthorised sales channels may be seized or cancelled without refund or exchange and the bearer of the ticket denied admission to events. The best way to protect your rights as a consumer is to purchase tickets directly through Brisbane Festival ticketing partners and their official websites. 

Patrons with accessibility needs

Brisbane Festival is proud to present a program that is accessible to all arts lovers. For more detailed accessibility information, please refer to Brisbane Festival’s Precincts & Venues page and navigate to the specific venue you wish to attend. For production-specific accessibility information, please consult each production’s event page. Across the program, it is recommended that you contact each venue’s Box Office before you book tickets to discuss your access needs.


#Get Involved

Can I perform at Brisbane Festival?

Brisbane Festival is a curated event and the character of the Festival is dependent on the vision of the Artistic Director. Unfortunately, Brisbane Festival is unable to offer assessment and feedback on unsolicited submissions. Please contact brisbanefestival@brisbanefestival.com.au for more information.

How can I volunteer this year?

To ensure you hear when our 2024 volunteer program is announced, join the the Brisbane Festival email list and follow us on Linkedin.

How can I be an intern?

To ensure you hear when 2024 internships are announced, follow us on Linkedin.

How do I apply for a job?

Open positions and details on how to apply are listed on the Employment page.

Can I hold a stall at a Brisbane Festival event?

We do not accept applications for stalls.


#Supporting the Festival

How do I become a partner of the Festival?

Read more about how you can partner with the Festival on our Partners page or contact our Partnerships Team at partnerships@brisbanefestival.com.au to discuss unique ways to collaborate.

Can I donate to the Festival?

Our donors help Brisbane Festival to deliver performances of scale and ambition from both local and international artists. Read more about how you can donate to the Festival on our Giving Program page.



#More questions?

If your question is not answered on this page or you have feedback for us, we'd love to hear from you.

Contact the Brisbane Festival office on 07 3833 5400 or email brisbanefestival@brisbanefestival.com.au.

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Brisbane Festival expresses deep respect to and acknowledges the First People of this Country.