If you’re looking for fun and excitement, Ipswich is the place to be this month. The calendar is packed with events for every age and interest—from high-octane thrills to hands-on creative experiences, there’s truly something for everyone.
Now is the perfect time to explore Ipswich and make the most of everything this vibrant city has to offer.
Speed, skill and showdowns as ASBK returns to Queensland Raceway
Get ready for three days of full-throttle, heart-pounding action as the mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK) roars into Queensland Raceway from May 2–4! The legendary circuit will play host to Round 3 of the championship, with four action-packed classes set to hit the track. There will also be an opportunity for thrill seekers in the crowd to experience the same circuit as the pros thanks to QR Moto Ride Days, as well as enjoy the ASBK Fan Zone, stunt riding shows, a Sunday pit walk, autograph sessions, mini moto come and try sessions, plus loads of other off-track activities. Click here to purchase your tickets.
Gilmore Girls trivia at the Orion Hotel
How many of Rory’s boyfriends went to Friday night dinner with the Gilmores? Which season was Luke and Lorelai’s first kiss? Which Stars Hollow resident annoyed Luke the most? If you know the answers to these questions, register for the Gilmore Girls trivia night at the Orion Hotel on May 2. Doors open at 6pm so you and your squad can grab dinner and drinks beforehand.
Planes, Trains and Autos to take off this May
Whether you’re into roaring engines, sky-high stunts, or just a great family day out, the annual Planes, Trains and Autos Festival is the ultimate long weekend experience.
Returning to Ipswich for three big days from May 3-5, it’s the perfect opportunity to book that getaway you have been thinking about! The festival kicks off on Saturday at the Queensland Museum Rail Workshops with Fully Charged – featuring thrilling aerial displays, interactive exhibits, roving entertainment, and a nostalgic diesel train ride aboard the Swanbank Collier.
Over at the Nicholas Street Precinct, check out Park and Pose, showcasing a lineup of stunning classic vehicles. On Sunday, why not take a scenic ride on a mini steam train at the Grandchester Model Live Steam Association, or admire the impressive lineup of ponies at the Mustang Car Show, hosted by the Hotel Commonwealth and Mustang Enthusiasts Queensland. Monday wraps up with the Retro Picnic – a relaxed day of live music, food trucks, vintage stalls, and an eye-catching display of classic cars and bikes. Visit the website for the full program and ticket info.
Cheer on the jockeys at the Labour Day Races
There’s nothing quite like the buzz of a race day — the thunder of hooves, the cheer of the crowd, and the flash of silks as jockeys charge toward the finish line. This Labour Day, soak up the excitement and spend the day trackside at the Ipswich Turf Club. Catch every race between 11am-5pm, pick your favourite horse, and experience the thrill of live racing up close. More information here.
Get a taste of country life at the Marburg Show
For more than a century, the Marburg Show has been delighting families by showcasing a taste of what life is like in the country. This year, the 104th show will be held at the Marburg Showgrounds from May 9-10, and promises to be a fun-filled weekend the whole family will love. Highlights of this year’s show include the showjumping events, farm animals, live entertainment, LEGO displays, ute mustering, fireworks and of course, those all important showbags.
Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and concession card holders, $10 for students (12-17 years) and $5 for children (5-11 years). Kids under 5 are free.
Test your ride at Powercruise
Calling all car enthusiasts! Powercruise is returning to Queensland Raceway on May 10. This isn’t your average car show—it’s a cruising car show where you can do what you can’t on the streets – cruise, drift, do burnouts, race, and engage in thrilling powerskids while surrounded by fellow enthusiasts in a safe, controlled and alcohol-free environment. There will also be a Show ‘n’ Shine competition, trade stalls, business displays, food, plus much more!
Create a magical day for your mum
Mother’s Day is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect opportunity to show some love and gratitude to the amazing women who support and shape our lives. Whether you’re planning something special for your mum, stepmum, grandmother, aunty, or another cherished maternal figure, Ipswich is brimming with fabulous ways to celebrate on May 11.
If you’re looking to start the day off right, why not treat mum to a delicious buffet breakfast? Both Club Services Ipswich and Brothers Leagues Club are serving up generous morning spreads. If a hearty lunch is more your style, head over to the Orion Hotel, where a mouthwatering buffet lunch awaits. For something a little more refined, Homage Restaurant is offering an indulgent four-course lunch experience (make sure to book ahead—seats are limited and in high demand). If your mum loves the great outdoors, a laid-back Mother’s Day picnic at Spicers Hidden Vale might be just the thing. For something more casual, consider a trip to Stony Creek Brewery.
Make your own cocktails
Learn how to incorporate herbs, botanicals and pure essential oils to create a subtle yet exquisite flavour that will help you become an expert mixologist in no time at the classic cocktail masterclass at Monte Lane Wine Bar on May 15. Pretty soon you will be pouring drinks like Tom Cruise in the movie Cocktail! More information here.
Experience the best of farm, fun and fireworks at the Ipswich Show
Roll up, roll up, the Ipswich Show is returning to the showgrounds for three big days of fun from May 16-18. There will be all your show favourites like sideshow alley, showbags and Dagwood Dogs, plus Paw Patrol Live in the main arena, FMX stunt shows, bison stampede, demolition derby, fireworks, sheep dog demonstrations, magic shows, jugglers, an animal nursery, fireworks, and way too many things to mention here, so go and check it out for yourself!
Early bird tickets are on sale now until May 15. Click here to book.
Family fun at the Greater Springfield Community Festival
Featuring an array of multicultural dance performances, school choirs and live bands, local and international food stalls, market stalls, amusement rides, carnival games, a petting zoo, live DJs and a spectacular fireworks display, Robelle Domain will be the place to be on May 17 as the community gathers to celebrate the Greater Springfield Community Festival. Head down anytime between 9am-9pm.
Try your hand at making jerky
If you love food and beer, you won’t want to miss the upcoming jerky- making challenge at Stony Creek Brewing on May 18. Here, you will learn expert techniques from the in-house butcher, including seasoning and drying meats, and explore beer flavours and profiles with the brewer. A four-pack of beer is included to use in the jerky recipe. Contestants will then have a week to craft their masterpiece, documenting the process along the way before a panel of judges crown the winner. The top prize is a food and drinks package for ten people, making this a high-stakes, flavour-packed competition.
Ipswich Dog Day to be a tail-wagging celebration
Don’t settle for the usual walk around the block this May 24 — treat your pup to a day out at the Ipswich Dog Day celebrations at the Nicholas St Precinct. There will be lots of paw-some activities for you and your furry friend to enjoy including market stalls selling lots of doggy goodies, delicious food trucks and live entertainment.
Unleash your inner warrior at Ivory’s Rock
Get ready, warriors – the Sparton Trifecta Weekend is making its triumphant return to Ivorys Rock in Peak Crossing on May 24-25, and you’re invited to take on the challenge! Spartan races are the ultimate test of strength, endurance, and mental grit, with courses packed full of intense obstacles like climbing walls, crawling under barbed wire, heavy carries, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or a first-time challenger, there’s a race for everyone including the 5km sprint, 10km Super, 21km Beast, 50km Ultra and the Kids race. Tickets on sale now.
Venture into the great outdoors
Whether you’re an elite runner or a first timer, On the Edge Trail Running Series is open to everyone! Round two of the series will be held at the Hidden Vale Adventure Park in Grandchester on May 25. Choose from the 4.2km, 11.5km or 25km fully marked and marshalled courses and explore some of the most magnificent trail running terrain in Australia.
Treat your tastebuds at the Ipswich Vegan Markets
Featuring an array of plant-based delights, the Ipswich Vegan Markets is a culinary adventure that is sure to tantalise your tastebuds. Whether you’re a devoted vegan or just looking to try something new, this market will feature a wide range of vendors, stallholders, drinks, shopping at the Nicholas Street Precinct on May 30. Head down between 5pm-9pm. Entry is free.
Get gnarly with the pros at Redbank Plains
After tearing up skateparks right across the country, it’s Ipswich’s turn to watch some of the world’s top skateboarders when the BMD Rumble Pro Tour Series stops in at the Redbank Plains Skate Facility on May 31. Here you will see some of the top skateboarders in the world, including local legends, as they showcase their skills and throw down jaw-dropping runs.
Catch the latest flicks at Limelight Cinemas
If you’re looking for the perfect excuse to kick back with a choc top or dive into a bucket of buttery popcorn, Limelight Cinemas has you covered this month with a blockbuster lineup and some seriously cool events. This month moviegoers can look forward to Dog Man, Novocaine No Pain, Thunderbolts*, Bonnie and Clyde: The Musical, and a Twilight saga overnight marathon.
Take in a show or two at the Ipswich Civic Centre and Studio 188
Get ready for a packed month of live entertainment as nine incredible acts hit the stages of Ipswich Civic Centre and Studio 188 this May! From musical theatre to comedy and classic rock tributes, there’s something for everyone, so all you need to do is sit back, relax and enjoy the show. Highlights include: Jekyll & Hyde – The Musical; Australian Celtic Women; Catastrophic Comical Cabaret; Stitch in the Swich; and Seventh Wonder performing Fleetwood Mac’s Rumours and the hits.
Realise your dream of becoming a professional artist
If you have ever wanted to learn more about art and create your own masterpiece to display at home, why not join one of the weekly social painting groups offered by the Ipswich Art Society Inc. Here, members will find inspiration and a platform to grow their skills, and even publicly display their art for sale. Meetings are held every Tuesday and the second and fourth Saturdays of the month at the Old Court House Ipswich. Follow the Ipswich Art Society on Facebook for more info.
Discover hidden treasures at the 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 and Handmade Expo Markets.
An evening of fun and films
Load up the car, grab your favourite snacks and head on down to the Tivoli Drive-In where you can enjoy two movies on the big screen every Saturday night! Movies screening this month include Disney’s Snow White, Star Wars Episode III – Revenge of the Sith, A Real Pain, A Minecraft Movie, Mickey 17, Looney Tunes: The Day the Earth Blew Up, The Secret Kingdom, and My Pet Dinosaur.
For more ideas to help you plan your next trip to Ipswich, check out our What’s On page.
