Get ready for an action-packed month in Ipswich! With electrifying live entertainment, hands-on farm experiences, mouthwatering foodie events, creative art workshops, and so much more, boredom is simply not an option.
Learn more about ocean life
If you can’t make it to the beach these school holidays, no sweat, because an unforgettable ocean experience is coming to the Nicholas Street Precinct these school holidays! The Hide and Sea interactive marine display tent will feature touch tanks full of fascinating sea creatures, including hermit crabs, sea urchins, and even a pelican! Open daily from 10am-2pm between April 7-11.
Treat your tastebuds at the Watercress Creek Olive Festival
For a delicious day out, head on down to the Watercress Creek Olive Festival, where there will be more than 20 carefully selected stalls featuring locally handmade products to give you a true taste of the region. Afterwards, throw out the picnic blanket and soak up the sun in the olive groves.
Get crafty at the Ipswich Papercraft Show
The much-loved Ipswich Papercraft Show will be returning to the Ipswich Showgrounds on April 10-12 where you can stock up on supplies, kits and equipment, as well as join some hands-on interactive classes.
Bloomin’ day out for green thumbs
Whether you are wanting to peruse the beautiful display of flowers or purchase something special to take home, you won’t be disappointed at the annual Ipswich Garden Spectacular, which will be held at the Silkstone State School Hall on April 12-13. There will also be vendors selling gardening accessories, talks on how to grow your own orchids at home, raffles and much more. Admission is $5 per person. Children under 18 are free. Bus groups are welcome.
Spoil your mum at The Soul Nook Collective
Discover a stunning showcase of talented local makers, artists, creatives, and food vendors offering an array of sweet and savory delights at the Mother’s Day Market at The Soul Nook Collective on April 26. There will also be giveaways, raffles and family fun – perfect for spoiling the special women in your life.
Unlock your soul’s journey at the Ipswich Psychic Expo
Immerse yourself in a transformative experience with over 20 stallholders, healers, and psychic mediums at the annual Soul Journey Ipswich Psychic Expo, held at the Brothers Leagues Club on April 27. There will also be plenty of crystals, jewellery, books and more on sale.
Queensland Knife Show returns to Ipswich
The ultimate event for knife enthusiasts returns to Ipswich on April 5-6, bringing together world-class knife makers, collectors, and dealers for an epic showcase of craftsmanship and precision. Explore a massive selection of custom knives, tools, and supplies from top manufacturers, and meet the experts behind the blades. For more information, follow Queensland Knife Show on Facebook.
Meet cute farm animals
Featuring adorable alpacas, lambs, goats, geese and chickens, Ewe Nique Hobby Farm is an animal lover’s paradise! Open every Saturday and Sunday (bookings are required), as well as during the school holidays, you and your family can spend a few hours patting and feeding all the animals.
Embrace your artistic side
Looking for a fun and creative way to celebrate Easter? The team from Sip ‘n’ Dip will be hosting a fun new workshop at The Soul Nook Collective on April 12 where you can make your own stemless wine glasses in time for the long weekend.
Admire hot rods, muscle cars, and more
Whether you’re a classic car owner or a fan, the upcoming car show at the Mihi Tavern on April 12 is the perfect place to admire some stunning rides. There will also be food trucks, two bars, and live entertainment.
Seven mega shows to entertain you
An incredible lineup of talented singers, actors and comedians will take to the stage at the Ipswich Civic Centre and Studio 188 this April, with seven amazing shows locked in. You won’t want to miss multi award-winning performer Darren Coggan as he returns to his country roots with The Poems, Prayers & Promises of John Denver, delivering the vocal authenticity of one of the most passionate performers of all time; or Rebecca O’Conner as Tina Turner in Simply The Best – an electrifying new show that blends nostalgia with fresh, fiery energy. For the kids, there is also a heartwarming and hilarious production called Freckleface Strawberry, filled with catchy songs and high-energy dance numbers.
Racing fun awaits you at Queensland Raceway
Whether you’re chasing thrills or keen to watch some of the best drivers and riders in the country, Queensland Raceway is the place to be this month! Highlights include Round One of the Queensland Racing Drivers’ Championship (QRDC); The ASRC Stunt Games, where the top riders from across the country will perform their best jaw dropping tricks in a bid to be crowned Australia’s best Stunt Rider; Plus, the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to alongside ex-MotoGP and World Superbike racer Anthony West during the Superbike Pillion-Ride Experience.
Egg-cellent family fun at the Ipswich Turf Club
In addition to the weekly race meets at the Ipswich Turf Club on April 3, 9, 21 and 30, the Ipswich Turf Club has planned a free family fun day to be held trackside on Easter Monday. With thoroughbred racing and Easter eggs for the kids (and big kids) to enjoy, it’s a family-friendly day to look forward to.
Quench your thirst at Imbibis Distillery
Calling all gin enthusiasts – discover the magic behind Ipswich’s internationally award-winning craft gin and brandy with an unforgettable tour at Imbibis Craft Distillery, held every Friday at 2pm! This is your opportunity to meet the meet the chief distiller and indulge in an exclusive tasting session featuring their exceptional spirits.
Take your meat-smoking skills to the next level
Learn the art of breaking down a brisket, discover the best rubs, and master the perfect cooking times at the upcoming Smoker Master Class, held at the Springlake Hotel on April 12. The experts from Ironwood Barbecue and Jackalope Trading Co will also be there to guide you through signature rubs and woods—just like those used at Springlake. Tickets are $99 which gets you own smoked meat board, a beverage package, and a take-home smoked merch pack. To reserve your spot, click here.
Explore the fascinating world of trains
If you or the kids are train enthusiasts, don’t miss the chance to explore all the incredible exhibits currently on display at the Queensland Rail Workshops Museum! It’s a fantastic spot for train lovers of all ages to dive into the world of rail with lots of hands-on displays. Here, you can explore the 90m2 Queensland Raceway that depicts different landscapes and services, step aboard a recreated tilt train, celebrate 100 years of Queensland’s North Coast Line, or let the kids burn off some energy at the recently refurbished indoor adventure playground.
Just a heads up – tickets for the hugely popular Planes, Trains and Autos event held at the museum next month is on sale now! Click here to book.
Gigs galore at Banshees Bar and Art Space
It’s going to be an epic month of tunes at Banshees Bar and Art Space, with guitar wielding larrikin James Diamond, Toowoomba’s bass thumping band Kathleen Turner Overdrive, and local voices Paulina, Nik Hamby, and Buskabrown all included in the lineup.
Relive timeless classics on the big screen
Take a trip down memory lane with Limelight Cinema’s special anniversary screenings, celebrating iconic films that have stood the test of time. A Special screening of The Goonies will be on April 2, as well as Monty Python and the Holy Grail on April 16, and Scott Pilgrim vs. The World on April 30.
Enjoy a day at the Marburg trots
If you are yet to experience the thrill of harness horse racing, head on down to the Marburg Showgrounds to see members of the Marburg Pacing Association go head-to-head with their horses and carts. Gates open at 11am, with the races kicking off around lunch time. Races will be held on April 6 and 20.
Drive-in movie magic
Are you looking for a unique and memorable way to spend an evening with the family? A drive-in movie night is the perfect throwback to a simpler time, offering both nostalgia and a fun experience for everyone. This month, kick back and relax at the Tivoli Drive-In while you watch Wicked, Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy, Spider-Man: No Way Home, and Venom: The last Dance.
Take a road trip to Summer Land Camels
Pack up the car and enjoy a day in the country at Australia’s leading camel farm – Summer Land Camels. Located a short drive from the Ipswich CBD, the farm is open every day for families to meet the camels, try their famous camel milk gelato, and browse the farm shop for locally made goods. Entry is free, or you can elevate your experience by booking a camel ride or a VIP camel encounter at an additional cost.
This month, the farm will also host an Autumn Market on April 5 with lots of unique market stalls, gourmet food, live music and kids’ activities, as well as their annual school holiday program, Little Farmer Humpty Day on April 16 (which is a ticketed event).
Uncover hidden treasures at your local markets
Looking for great bargains and unique finds? The local markets here in Ipswich are a treasure trove where you can support local artisans and farmers. Grab your reusable shopping bags and enjoy a delightful day out at these markets: Springfield Markets, Ripley Markets, Riverlink Market Zone, Ipswich Farmers and Collective Indoor Markets, Handmade Expo Markets and Quibble Market.
For more ideas to help you plan your next trip to Ipswich, check out our What’s On page.
