24 cool things to do in Ipswich this June to beat the winter blues
By Ashleigh Howarth
Get ready for a jam-packed June in Ipswich, where motorsport thrills, live music, spooky ghost tours, and family fun await around every corner!
There will be plenty of action at Queensland Raceway as part of the Festival of Horsepower.
The hugely popular Festival of Horsepower returns
Buckle up because Ipswich’s most powerful event, the Festival of Horsepower, is back for a month-long lineup of adrenaline-fueled events for motorsport fans and families alike! Running from June 1-30, this hugely popular festival features a number of Australia’s signature racing and motorsport events, from the from the glitz and glamour of the TAB Ipswich Cup to the raw and electrifying action of the Gulf Western Oil Winternationals, Australia's largest drag racing event. If you love speed, thrills and adventure, see the full lineup events here.
Catch The Wolfe Brothers live at The Racehorse
Having rocked venues all over the world, country rock legends The Wolfe Brothers are stopping at the Racehorse Hotel on June 27 as part of their biggest tour yet! Featuring a full setlist with plenty of fan favourites plus a few special surprises, this is one show you won’t want to miss!
Alex Lloyd to bring his heart and soul to Springfield
Get ready, Alex Lloyd fans! The soulful singer-songwriter returns for one night only at the Springlake Hotel on June 21, delivering a high-energy, unforgettable live show. From the classic hits that defined his career to his latest single, this is your chance to see the four times ARIA Award-winner up close.
Two stellar shows to light up the stage
The big names keep rolling into Ipswich this month, with two stellar shows lined up at the Ipswich Civic Centre and Studio 188. First, singer-songwriter Diesel takes the stage on June 6 with his By Request tour, offering a unique experience where every song is chosen by the audience. Meanwhile, The Girl from Greece return with their new show, Our Big Fat Greek Café Tour on June 13. Following their sold-out debut, The Girl from Greece: A Tribute to Nana Mouskouri at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre in 2023, this latest performance continues to celebrate Hellenic culture through heartfelt storytelling and song.
An edge-of-your-seat Superbike showdown
Get ready for three days of heart-pounding action when round 5 of the Penrite Australian Superbike Championship presented by Pirelli (ASBK) rolls into Queensland Raceway from June 26-28. Not only will there be plenty of jaw-dropping and exceptionally close racing on the track, but there will also be the popular ASBK Fan Zone, stunt riding shows, a Sunday pit walk, autograph sessions, Mini Moto come and try sessions for the kids, plus loads more! There’s also free paddock access for the duration of the event.
Take a trip around the world without the need for a passport at the Greater Springfield Community Festival.
Cultures to come together for day of family fun
Featuring an array of multicultural singing and dance performances, market stalls showcasing handmade and artisanal products, family-friendly games and entertainment, as well as local and international food trucks, the Greater Springfield Community Festival is a highlight event on the yearly calendar for people of all ages and backgrounds. Head on down to Robelle Domain Parklands anytime between 9am-8pm on June 27.
Discover country charm at the Rosewood Show
Dust off your hats and mark your calendars because the Rosewood Show is back on June 26-27 for two days of entertainment. Held at the showgrounds, there will be so much to take in including amusement rides, carnival games, the showbag pavilion, showjumping, prize-winning livestock, live entertainment, and lots of delicious food options.
Let your imagination shine at LightPlay!
Step into the dazzling world of LightPlay, where imagination runs wild and curiosity sparks ideas into life. Now open at the Ipswich Art Gallery, this vibrant exhibition invites visitors to explore kaleidoscopic patterns, experiment with luminous construction, and investigate light through interactive boxes and projectors. You can even use your body to paint with light.
Mosey on down to CSI for a night of country tunes
Grab your boots, dust off your hat and get ready to two-step your way into the best hoedown in town with CSI – Club Service Ipswich going full country every Saturday night! From 8.30pm till late, there will be an array of rotating country bands that will have you bootscootin’ faster than a tumbleweed in a twister. There will also be plenty of chances to win some awesome prizes!
Treat yourself at the Fermented Food Festival
If you love food and trying new flavours, the Fermented Food Festival in Harrisville on June 6 is set get your tastebuds watering. Hosted by Summer Land Camels and The Pickling Project, this tasty day is about exploring the health benefits of fermented foods and the role microorganisms play in our well-being. Some of the fermentation practices on show will include making krauts, sourdough bread, Kombucha, tempeh, Japanese miso, cheese making, beer brewing, Indian dosa, Ethiopian Injera bread, kefir, wine and ginger beer. There will be also market stalls to browse, samples to taste, guest speakers, live music, and camels to pat!
Add some colour to your home by visiting the Ipswich Plant and Lifestyle Fair.
A weekend of green living, wellness and more
If you love all things green, beautiful and sustainable, then the Ipswich Plant and Lifestyle Fair is a must-visit! Happening at the Nicholas Street Precinct on June 6-7, this free event is packed with inspiration for every corner of your life. Here you can discover more ways to bring nature, wellness, and creativity into your home, as well as indulge in healthy food, browse the natural wellness products, and pick up some unique homewares to refresh your space.
Have a smashing good time in a rage cage
Looking to blow off some steam or experience the thrill of smashing household items with a sledgehammer? Book your own private demolition room at Rage Cage Smash Rooms and get ready to swing. With an impressive smash menu featuring everyday items like old TVs, glass bottles, furniture, and electronics, there’s plenty of stuff to smash into smithereens.
Unleash your inner Viking
Live out your Viking or Game of Thrones fantasy in a safe and controlled environment at Rampage Axe Throwing, conveniently located behind Rage Cage. With eight self-contained lanes each with its own wooden target, it’s a satisfying, stress-releasing and fun night out.
Uncover Ipswich’s haunted past on a ghost tour
Explore more of Ipswich’s eerie side and uncover tales of spirits that haven’t quite crossed over by joining an Ipswich Ghost Tour. With three different tours available, you can explore the city’s haunted history with a guided walk through the CBD or spend an evening wandering past the graves at the Ipswich and Goodna cemeteries. Perfect for history buffs or thrill seekers, register your interest now if you dare.
Dibley comes to East Ipswich for a weekend of fun
Perfect for fans of the television show, the upcoming stage production of the Vicar of Dibley performed by the talented cast from the Ipswich Orpheus Chorale promises to be an evening of warm-hearted comedy. Four shows are scheduled at the St George Hoggs Performance Venue in East Ipswich from June 12-14, including two matinees.
There’s plenty of aviation history on display at the RAAF Amberley Aviation Heritage Centre.
Visit the RAAF Amberley Aviation Heritage Centre
A must-visit for aviation and military history fans, the RAAF Amberley Aviation Heritage Centre is your opportunity to learn more about the RAAF’s role in South-East Queensland and get up close to some incredible aircraft including an F-111, WWII Boston Bomber, Vietnam-era Canberra bomber plus many more.
Test your Friends knowledge at trivia
Celebrate the sitcom that defined a generation and see if you’re the ultimate fan of Central Perk’s favourite crew at a special Friends-themed trivia night at the Hotel Commonwealth on June 17. Expect rounds on classic episodes, iconic quotes and unforgettable moments from all ten seasons, plus there will be some awesome prizes up for grabs!
Little Farmer Humpty Day returns
Ever dreamed of being a farmer for a day? You’re in luck because the Little Farmer Humpty Day is returning to Summer Land Camels on June 30, bringing a fun-filled farm adventure for kids and adults. Your ticket includes a hands-on farm tour, camel cuddles, and classic kids’ games, with optional extras like face and plaster painting. For something truly unforgettable, why not upgrade your ticket to include a camel ride (suitable for kids aged 4 and over). You can also try some of the delicious items at the onsite café. Closed-in shoes are necessary.
Ease into the weekend with a sip at Imbibis
Whether you have knocked off work early or enjoying a long weekend, Imbibis Craft Distillery is a relaxing and tasty spot to kickstart your days off. With the cellar doors open from every Friday, this is your chance to taste some award-winning craft spirits which were inspired by Queensland’s vibrant landscapes, local flavours, and unique flora.
Spend your weekend at the movies
Instead of sitting at home watching reruns on tv, head to Limelight Cinemas and watch one of the many new Hollywood movies that are premiering this month! Get excited because there are a whole bunch of sequels hitting the screen including Toy Story 5, Minions and Monsters, Scary Movie 6, and Super Girl.
With lots of nostalgia and games you know and love, General Public is the perfect destination for a date or weekly catchup with friends.
Enjoy an evening of old-school arcade games
Whether you’re looking for a way to entertain the kids for a few hours or planning the ultimate date night, General Public in Ipswich guarantees fun for all ages. With plenty of arcade style games, bowling lanes, shuffleboard, interactive darts and even a high-tech golf simulator, there’s no shortage of friendly competition and high scores to chase.
Browse the many markets across the region
There’s something special about a market day in Ipswich where handcrafted goods, fresh local produce and bargain buys come together in a lively community atmosphere. The Springfield Markets pop up at Robelle Domain Parklands on the first Sunday of each month from 8am-1pm and again at the Orion Shopping Centre on the third Sunday from 9am-4pm. The Handmade Expo bring together more than 100 market stalls at Tulmur Place on the second Saturday of the month from 9am-1pm, whereas The Ripley Markets bring a twilight vibe to Providence on the second Saturday of each month from 3pm- 8pm. Finally, the Riverlink Market Zone takes over the East Mall on the fourth Sunday from 8.30am-3pm. Wherever you go, don’t forget your reusable bags - there’s always something worth taking home.
Pick up a cue at CU@N8s
If you’re up for some late-night fun, gather your mates and head to CU@N8s pool hall, located at 88 Limestone Street. Open seven days a week until late, this lively venue features eight 9-foot American nine-ball tables as well as a bar where you can grab a bite to eat and a few drinks.
Escape to the country and visit a local farm
Breathe in some fresh country air and pat some adorable farm animals at one of the many farms across the region. To pat and ride a camel, head out to Summer Land Camels in nearby Harrisville, or cosy with up baby chicks, ducks, sheep, cows and more at Heritage Poultry, also located in Harrisville, which is open on the last Sunday of the month from 10am-12.30pm. There’s also Naughty Little Goats in Peak Crossing, open every Sunday and Ewe Nique Hobby Farm in Haigslea, which is open Saturday and Sunday mornings.
For more ideas to help you plan your next trip to Ipswich, log onto www.discoveripswich.com.au
This blog was written for Discover Ipswich, with images courtesy of Discover Ipswich, local businesses and tourism operators.