Over 11 huge days in July the City of Ipswich will be taken over by music, comedy, arts, exhibitions, circus, projection, culture, technology, collaboration and discussion. SPARK Ipswich celebrates the people, places, arts and culture of Ipswich from July 4-14. While there are some ticketed events, there are also a lot of low or no-cost things you can do – so bring the family and get ready to have some fun!
Light projections
Experience deLight, PIXEL and d’Arcy Doyle Place in a whole new light. Iconic landmarks will be illuminated with projected artworks from local artists and accompanied by local musicians performing each night of the festival.
Relax and enjoy animated artworks and live music under the starry sky, hear talks from deLight artists and gather together before heading on to one of the many live shows, performances and exhibitions on offer across Ipswich.
Date and time: July 4-14, 6pm-9pm
Cost: Light activations and music at d’Arcy Doyle Place are free.
Circuit – Music in Many Places
Two electrifying musical events transform Ipswich Central into a symphony of sound each Saturday of the festival! Imagine over 15 unique venues, each pulsating with its own rhythm, scattered throughout the city centre. From energetic pubs to trendy barbershops, art-filled spaces, and aromatic Indian restaurants, the beats will echo through every corner during Circuit.
Date and time: July 6 and July 13, 5pm-9pm
Cost: Free
Various Ipswich Central Locations
WOMI – World of Music Ipswich
World of Music Ipswich (WOMI) stars a jam packed lineup with music from across the globe. This one-day music festival, held on Main St at Orion Springfield Central, showcases and celebrates the vibrancy of Ipswich and South East Queensland’s culturally and linguistically diverse community. It is bursting with life, light and colour – featuring multicultural food, interactive workshops and variety of market stalls.
Date and time: July 7, 9am-4pm
Cost: Free
Little Day Out
Little Day Out is Ipswich’s signature children’s music and arts festival. With a focus on sustainability, Little Day Out is bursting with music, hands-on art experiences, food and roving entertainment. Festival favourites Burger Joint headline this year with their Junior Burger Rock Show, a fresh, uniquely Australian rock concert for kids! Children can sing, dance and play over two sessions 9am-11.30am or 1pm-3.30pm. Entry is $5 and includes a bucket hat.
Date and time: July 16, 9am-3.30pm
Cost: $5 – bookings essential
Teddy Bears’ Picnic
Children and their families are invited to celebrate SPARK Ipswich’s inaugural Teddy Bears’ Picnic at the Queensland Museum Rail Workshops. Don’t forget to bring your favourite teddy, picnic rug and snacks.
There will be craft workshops for you and teddy to enjoy, stage performances, roving entertainers and of course… A Bear Hunt!
Date and time: July 6 from 9.30am – 12pm.
Cost: $5 – bookings essential
From dance eisteddfods to tattoo and crochet workshops, circus skill lessons and art exhibits galore there is so much to see and do! With over 50 unique events scheduled for the 11 days there are just too many to list so check out the SPARK Ipswich website to see all that’s on!
Why not team your evening up with an incredible restaurant booking or even stay overnight! Check out all the dining and accommodation options available here in Ipswich too.
