The Australia Day long weekend offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences north of Brisbane. Highlights include the final days of the Salvation Army exhibition in Caboolture and the visually stunning Candlelight concerts in the Sunshine Coast hinterland. From immersive history at the Pine Rivers Heritage Museum to futuristic food art, there is plenty to explore.
Candlelight: The Best of Hans Zimmer
24 January 2026 | Flaxton Gardens, Sunshine Coast
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Experience the epic scores of cinema’s greatest composer in a breathtaking setting. Under the open sky (or marquee) at Flaxton Gardens, a string quartet will perform iconic themes from The Lion King, Gladiator, Inception, and more, all illuminated by thousands of candles.
Candlelight: Best of Coldplay
24 January 2026 | Flaxton Gardens, Sunshine Coast
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Following the Hans Zimmer tribute, the glow continues with a celebration of Coldplay. Enjoy classical renditions of “Yellow,” “Fix You,” and “Viva La Vida” in the romantic and serene atmosphere of the Sunshine Coast hinterland.
Salvation Army Historical Exhibition
1 November 2025 – 25 January 2026 | Caboolture Historical Village, Caboolture Last Chance:
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This weekend is your final opportunity to view this comprehensive collection. It chronicles the history of the Salvation Army in the region, featuring rare artifacts, uniforms, and stories of community service that span over a century.
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
15 – 23 January 2026 | Emerge Church, Warner
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Catch the closing night of this enchanting musical production. Local performers bring the classic “tale as old as time” to life with dazzling costumes and beloved songs. It is a perfect family-friendly finale to the school holiday theatre season.
Ocean Sentinels: Inspiring change through art
8 November 2025 – 8 February 2026 | Bribie Island Seaside Museum, Bongaree
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Combine a trip to the beach with some culture. Ocean Sentinels features powerful artworks that address marine conservation. It is a thought-provoking exhibition that resonates deeply with the coastal lifestyle of Bribie Island.
Out on the Town
15 November 2025 – 19 April 2026 | Pine Rivers Heritage Museum, Whiteside
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Step back in time to see how locals partied in decades past. This exhibition explores the history of balls, dances, and social gatherings in the Pine Rivers area, offering a nostalgic look at fashion, music, and community spirit.
Kirrenderri: Heart of the Channel Country
15 November 2025 – 16 February 2026 | Redcliffe Museum, Redcliffe
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Explore the deep connection between the Mithaka people and their land. Kirrenderri showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Channel Country through striking visuals and storytelling, providing a meaningful educational experience for the long weekend.
Pixel Printed Food Lab
2 – 29 January 2026 | The Hub Gallery, Caboolture
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Witness the intersection of culinary arts and technology. This exhibition demonstrates 3D food printing, challenging visitors to rethink the future of dining. It is a quirky and fascinating stop for those interested in innovation.
Two Girls From Amoonguna
29 November 2025 – 7 February 2026 | Redcliffe Art Gallery, Redcliffe
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This vibrant exhibition celebrates the friendship and artistic output of Sally M Mulda and Marlene Rubuntja. Their works, ranging from paintings to soft sculptures, offer a colourful and personal insight into life in the Central Desert.
Imperfect Pattern
13 December 2025 – 21 February 2026 | Pine Rivers Art Gallery, Strathpine
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Discover beauty in the flawed and the irregular. Imperfect Pattern brings together works that disrupt traditional symmetry, encouraging viewers to find aesthetic value in unexpected places.
Yield
20 September – 14 March 2026 | Caboolture Regional Art Gallery, Caboolture
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Yield delves into themes of agriculture, harvest, and the environment. Through contemporary art, it examines our complex relationship with the land—a fitting topic for the semi-rural surrounds of Caboolture.
Fresh Eyes 2025
22 November 2025 – 7 March 2026 | Redcliffe Art Gallery, Redcliffe
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See the local region through the perspective of its artists. Fresh Eyes challenges creators to interpret their surroundings in new ways, resulting in a diverse and surprising collection of works that celebrate the Moreton Bay area.
Art in Libraries – Echoes of the Soul
2 – 31 January 2026 | Albany Creek Library, Albany Creek
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Take a quiet moment at the Albany Creek Library to view Echoes of the Soul. This community exhibition makes art accessible to everyone, turning a routine library visit into a cultural encounter.
From the magical glow of candlelight concerts in the hinterland to the closing days of major historical exhibitions, this long weekend is packed with diverse cultural offerings. It is the perfect time to explore the galleries and museums of the north, soaking up art, history, and innovation before the holiday season officially concludes.