As the city enters its rare four-day lull, the Brisbane CBD and its immediate riverfront fringes undergo a sophisticated transformation. This is our curated guide to navigating the long weekend with precision and style.
The Spectacle: 78th Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race
Good Friday, April 3 | 11:00 am Start
The 78th edition of this maritime institution is the weekend’s premier event. While the race is professionally streamed, nothing beats the atmosphere of the live start.
- The Timing: The fleet begins its manoeuvres from 10:00 am, with the official start gun at 11:00 am.
- The Vantage Point: For the best view, secure a spot on the Shorncliffe Pier early. For a more elevated Urbanite experience, the cliffs at Sandgate or a private charter on the bay offer the most expansive sightlines of the 2026 fleet.
The Hub: Easter at Howard Smith Wharves
Friday, April 3 – Monday, April 6
The Wharves remain the city’s pulse throughout the break, with an array of refined activations across the precinct.
- The Seafood Feast: Stanley is hosting a premium seafood share menu ($98pp) featuring wok-tossed lobster and spanner crab. Lunch: 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm daily (from 11:30 am Sunday).
- The Social Event: Mr Percival’s annual Easter Riverdisco kicks off on Easter Sunday (April 5). Expect DJs and riverside energy from 11:00 am until late.
- For the Family: The annual HSW Easter Egg Hunt takes place on the Main Lawn at 10:00 am Sunday. With 10,000 eggs hidden, it’s a high-energy morning before the afternoon’s more relaxed pace.
The Cultural Retreat: GOMA & South Bank
Daily | 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
If you’re seeking a reprieve from the festivities, the South Brisbane cultural precinct offers a cooler, contemplative pace.
- The Must-See: Olafur Eliasson’s Presence at GOMA is the season’s headline exhibition. Note: Kids 12 and under are free from April 4–19, making it an ideal family cultural outing.
- The Morning Ritual: Lune Croissanterie (South Brisbane and Burnett Lane) will be open from 8:00 am on public holidays. Aim for an early arrival; their Easter specials are notorious for selling out by mid-morning.
The Logistics: Trading Hours at a Glance
- Good Friday: Most HSW venues (Felons, Stanley, and Mr Percival’s) open at 11:00 am or 12:00 pm. Note that alcohol service is strictly tied to meal service on this day.
- Surcharges: Expect a 15% public holiday surcharge at most major venues on Friday, Sunday, and Monday.
Hero Image: Nigel Owen / 2025 Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race
