Your Ultimate Guide to the Royal Queensland Show (Ekka) 2024!

The Royal Queensland Show is back and better than ever in 2024! The show will run from Saturday the 10th of August to Sunday the 18th of August, with gates opening at 9am and closing at 8:30pm each day.

If you’re looking to make the most of the public holiday, we have the perfect guide for a fantastic day out at the Ekka for all:

Fun-filled family day out 

The Ekka is all about family fun, offering an incredible range of activities and entertainment for everyone. From adorable farm animals and thrilling wood-chopping competitions to the vibrant Ekka Children’s Day and energetic live performances by beloved kids’ entertainers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And don’t miss the dazzling EkkaNITES night show, a must-see spectacle! 

More than 70% of the Ekka is committed to delivering free fun for the family, and this year there are over 300 free attractions to choose from!

There are a range of food options available ranging from culinary delights cooked by celebrity guest chefs, classic show meals such as dagwood dogs and some more budget friendly choices including a $3 toastie (VERY ekka-nomical).

The classic show-goer 

To add to the packed schedule of events and activities, you will also get to experience all of your classic show favourites, including showbags, sideshow alley and rides a-plenty! The fireworks spectacular at the EkkaNITE show is set to be a show stopping event. The Animal Nursery is also a timeless classic, with the chance to feed baby animals, watch a chicken hatch or even milk a cow – perfect for all animal lovers! 

Plus the regular schedule of competitions including showjumping, the Australian whip cracking championships, arts and cookery displays and cattle showing will be taking place once again. 

The artistically inclined 

Step into the world of the arts with a wide range of musical, dance and theatrical performances scheduled throughout the calendar for the week. Performances from local dance schools, the Australian Army Band, theatre groups and bush poets are sure to entertain all.

Why not watch a fashion show of locally sourced, sustainable designs, be amazed by a laser show or listen to live performances by some of the top and upcoming Australian recording artists? The Ekka truly caters to all interests – your day can be completely tailored by what you enjoy most!

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No visit to the Ekka is complete without indulging in one of the iconic Ekka strawberry sundaes. Not only are they a delicious treat, but every bite also supports a great cause, with proceeds going to The Common Good charity, which funds life-changing medical research.

Cap off your Ekka adventure by watching the sky light up with a spectacular fireworks display, a perfect ending to a day filled with fun and discovery!

The Ekka is always a great outing for the family, but it does pay to plan ahead of time, check out the tips for attending the Ekka as a family guide and the Ekka website for the most up to date information.