Discover the best of Queanbeyan’s summer with lively cultural events, musical and theatre performances, outdoor adventures and culinary delights. Whether you’re into music, festivals, theatre, nature or global cuisines, this charming city has your plans sorted.
1. MUSIC BY THE RIVER
What says summer more than live music by the water’s edge? In partnership with Icon Water, the signature evening that is Music By The River, is back on Saturday 21 February 2026.
From 4pm, bring the whole family down and groove to tunes from local musicians. Held in Queen Elizabeth II Park on the banks of the Queanbeyan River, bring your own picnic or sample the local gourmet street food on offer.
The main event starts at 7pm and this year’s program is dedicated to Queen.
This is also the tenth year that the Canberra Symphony Orchestra will grace us with their enchanting performances.
2. QUEANBEYAN MULTICULTURAL FESTIVAL
Our community is made up of many diverse cultures that blend harmoniously while maintaining their distinct identity.
On Sunday 28 March 2026, the spectacular and family-friendly Queanbeyan Multicultural Festival is back with another jam-packed schedule.
From 10am-4pm at Queanbeyan Park, gather together to celebrate our multiculturalism through colour, movement, food, love and learning. There will be 2 stages with international performances, food stalls, sporting and craft activities and maybe even some dance workshops!
As one of Queanbeyan’s biggest events — that grows more popular year-on-year — this is a day not to be missed.
3. RAISE THE CURTAIN ON THE Q
Season 2026 at The Q, our local and prestigious performing arts venue, kicks off in January with a sparkling pantomime of Cinderella suitable for the whole family.
From there, it’s another suite of magical live performances, with something for everyone’s tastes and budget.
Craving some genre-hopping satire? Tickets to see the international hit Hot Department are selling fast.
Ready to disco walk the plank to sea shanties that are out of this world? Ukulele Death Squad defies musical traditions to bring you a high octane, pirate inspired show like nothing you have ever seen before.
“Theatre belongs to everyone—it doesn’t matter if you’re young or old, what you know, what you believe, or where you’re from,” says Jordan Best, the Q’s Artistic Director & Programming Manager.
So this year, come immerse in impactful First Nations performances, regional and local productions, children’s theatre, the country’s best comedy and drama, Abbalanche — and much more.
4. A PADDLE, PEDAL AND A PICNIC
Get the whole family active at Googong Foreshores, a heritage-rich wildlife sanctuary.
Explore the waters by kayak or canoe — but save swimming for the Queanbeyan River downstream of the dam wall only! How many of the 165 bird species that live here can you spot?
Take a long lunch break at the picnic areas, complete with barbecues and toilet facilities. Then, bring out bikes to roll along the management trails and see the rest of the sites.
For the history buffs, head to the southern end to visit the old homestead and London Bridge Arch, with significant links to Aboriginal culture and Dreaming stories.
Please note: dogs and horses are not allowed.
5. COME SOUTH OF THE CAPITAL WITH CARTEL
Overlooking Queanbeyan River in leafy Ray Morton park, la vida es rica at Cartel Taqueria.
Not your average tacos, Cartel serves up authentic recipes made fresh and loaded with filling and flair. There are also bigger share plates and child-friendly options, like corn and zucchini fritter bites and waffle fries.
Relax inside surrounded by incredible interiors, including a woven rope ceiling and Mexican art. Or, sprawl out on the lawn with a provided picnic rug, while the kids enjoy the park.
Thirst need quenching? Turn down the heat with a frozen margarita — or up the mood with sangria; all made from scratch.
*Check all opening times prior to visiting
Written by Thuc Do for Visit Queanbeyan-Palerang.