By Ashleigh Howarth
Your November social calendar is officially sorted, with Ipswich turning up the excitement with a jam-packed lineup of events, experiences and festive fun this November! From getting into the Christmas spirit to catching incredible live music, browsing bustling markets, indulging in foodie favourites, farm adventures and soaking up inspiring art exhibitions, there’s something to suit every mood.
Discover the magic of Christmas in Ipswich
Get ready to Jingle all the way to Ipswich because the city’s Christmas festivities are kicking off early! Running from late November right up to New Years Eve, this year’s Christmas in Ipswich program will be bigger and better than before! Highlights include the City Christmas Lights Competition, lighting of the City Tree, festive markets, community carols, plus much more! Visit the Ipswich Festival’s website to see the full program.
Santa to arrive in style at Orion Springfield
To celebrate Santa’s arrival after his long journey from the North Pole, the team at Orion Springfield Central is rolling out the red carpet with a special welcome parade on November 7. Families can wave hello to the jolly man in red as he makes his way up Town Walk alongside some of his other delightful Christmas character friends. Be sure to be there early, as the parade kicks off at 9am.
Gift a little piece of the country at these markets
Experience the best of a boutique country market and get a start on your Christmas shopping at the Summer Land Camels Christmas Markets on November 7. A number of stallholders and producers from across the region, including Ipswich and the Scenic Rim, will be on hand to sell their wares including homemade goodies, clothing, jewellery, pet accessories, bric-a-brac and more. There will also be a special visit from Santa, live entertainment, and stunning views overlooking the farm.
Let talented artisans fill your Christmas stocking
Get a head start on your Christmas shopping for your loved ones by dropping by The Handmade Expo Mega Christmas Event at the Nicholas Street Precinct on November 14. Not only will there be a number of local artisans selling beautiful items that would make for great gifts or stocking stuffers, but there will also be roving entertainers including a beautiful fairy with the biggest bubbles you have ever seen, plus face painting, lawn games, food trucks, picnics in the park, and a zero-depth water zone for the kiddies to cool off at.
Enjoy a picnic among the olive trees
Soak up the laid-back country vibes and fresh air at the annual Farm Open Day Picnic in the Grove at Watercress Creek Olives and Limes on November 29. Bring along your picnic blanket, enjoy tasty bites, and unwind to the sounds of live music as you take in the beauty of the farm under the olive trees. BYO alcohol is acceptable.
A toast to five delicious years of The Rusty Nail
Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or simply love a good excuse to raise a glass, get ready to sip, savour and celebrate five years of seriously good drinks at The Rusty Nail’s 5th anniversary cocktail tasting experience. Think wine tasting, but with a cocktail twist, as each delicious taster is paired with a selection of cheeses and crackers for the ultimate flavour experience.
Raise a glass to Ipswich’s craft spirits
Step inside the world of artisan spirits at Imbibis Craft Distillery, a hidden gem in the heart of Ipswich where creativity, craftsmanship and flavour come together. Led by award-winning distiller Jason Hannay, the guided tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at the art of distilling, from selecting quality local ingredients to transforming them into distinctive small-batch gin, rum, vodka and liqueurs, with samples to taste test. Bookings are essential and spaces are limited, so be sure to reserve your spot early for this flavour-filled tasting adventure.
Catch the Melbourne Cup on the big screen
It’s one of Australia’s biggest sporting events of the year, and to celebrate, lots of venues across the city will be hosting Melbourne Cup luncheons, functions, and big-screen viewings - perfect for those trying their luck on the sweeps or simply wanting to dress up for the occasion. Celebrate at local favourites like CSI – Club Services Ipswich, Brothers Leagues Club, Springlake Hotel, Orion Hotel, Racehorse Hotel, and Commonwealth Hotel, just to name a few. Check with your local to see what’s planned!
Taste test delicious camel milk
If you can’t make the Christmas Markets, never fear, because Summer Land Camels is open every day for visitors, and you can even enjoy a guided tour and taste that brings you up close to these fascinating animals. Here you can learn about camel farming, how the camel milk is produced and even sample an array of award-winning products like milk powder, gelato, camel milk vodka and skincare. The farm is also wheelchair accessible.
A musical experience that strikes the right chords
Prepare for a magical night of music as the breathtaking surrounds of Saint Paul’s Anglican Church come alive with the sounds of music legends, performed by a world-class string quartet in an intimate candlelit setting. On November 13, enjoy the iconic hits of AC/DC and INXS from 6pm-7pm, followed by the timeless anthems of ABBA and Queen from 8pm- 9pm.
Young stars to bring heavenly hit to the stage
Get ready for a whole lot of laughter, music and fun as the talented young performers of Ipswich Musical Theatre Company bring Sister Act Jr. to the stage! Follow the story of Deloris Van Cartier, an aspiring singer whose life takes an unexpected turn when she witnesses a crime and is forced to hide out in a convent. Packed with hilarious moments, catchy tunes and plenty of heart, Sister Act Jr. promises an entertaining theatrical experience for audiences of all ages. Catch the show at the Ipswich Old Courthouse on November 7 and 8, and support the next generation of local theatre talent!
A stellar line-up of creative artists
Get ready for a month of incredible live music as the Ipswich Civic Centre and Studio 188 welcome a fantastic line-up of talented artists to the stage! The popular Mixtape Sessions will showcase an exciting mix of sounds and styles, featuring the likes of Charlotte Le Lievre, Paulina and Katy Steele, alongside a host of other brilliant performers including local dance schools and even comedians cracking jokes at the monthly Stitch in the ‘Swich event.
Admire local masterpieces at annual expo
Celebrate the creativity and talent of local artists at the Ipswich Art Awards Exhibition, running from November 8-14 on Level 1 of the Ipswich City Council building. The walls will be covered in an array of different artworks spanning from acrylics to oils, watercolours, sculptures, drawings, pastels, photography, mixed media, printmaking and new media, and with all entered artworks available for sale, you might just find your next piece to hang at home.
Discover a greener lifestyle in the heart of Ipswich
Whether you’re an avid gardener, a budding plant lover or simply looking for inspiration to create a greener, healthier home, the Ipswich Plant and Lifestyle Fair has something for everyone. Taking place at the Nicholas Street Precinct on November 6-7, this free, family-friendly event is the perfect opportunity to discover new ideas, meet like-minded enthusiasts, learn some healthy new recipes, pick up some new home decor and find inspiration for a more beautiful, balanced and sustainable lifestyle.
Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo at Disney Trivia
Calling all Disney fans - it’s time to put your magical movie knowledge to the test at Disney Trivia at the Hotel Commonwealth on November 18. Gather your friends, brush up on your favourite Disney classics, and get ready for a fun-filled evening of trivia, games, great food and drinks, with prizes up for grabs. With doors opening at 6pm and trivia kicking off at 6.30pm, it’s the perfect chance to see who’s the ultimate Disney expert in your crew!
Kick back with a movie or two
From iconic classics to show-stopping musicals and epic marathons, Limelight Cinemas has something for every moviegoer this month. Don’t miss George Michael: The Faith Tour, an overnight marathon of the Twilight Saga, Festive Fun with Peppa Pig, National Theatre Live: Golden Boy, Doctor Who: The Satan Pit, Giant – The Play, Mini Girls’ Day Out, plus much more! Combine your evening with dinner at Ruby Chews and it’s a great night out for the whole family!
Spend your weekend browsing the markets
From hidden gems and one-of-a-kind creations to farm-fresh finds and delicious bites, Ipswich’s markets are bursting with local flavour, creative talent and plenty of surprises waiting to be uncovered. Whether you’re shopping for something special or simply soaking up the lively atmosphere, you never know what little treasure you’ll stumble across! Start the month at the Springfield Markets at Robelle Domain Parklands on the first Sunday, then head to the Orion Shopping Centre on the third Sunday. The Handmade Expo takes over Tulmur Place on the second Saturday with more than 100 stalls of creative goods, while the Ripley Markets bring a relaxed twilight vibe to Providence on the same Saturday. To finish the month, the Riverlink Market Zone fills the East Mall on the fourth Sunday of each month.
Feel the thrill of a V8 Race Experience
Feel the roar of the engine and the rush of adrenaline when you book a V8 Race Experience at Queensland Raceway! This is your opportunity to get behind the wheel of a powerful race car and put the pedal to the metal, choosing between the iconic Holden Commodore and Ford Falcons or upgrading to a Ford Mustang or Chevrolet Camaro. There’s also the option to tag along as a passenger and experience the famous racecourse at high speeds as you ride shotgun with a professional driver in a six-car showdown. Whatever your thrill level, this heart-pounding ride will be one you always remember. The next race experiences will be held on November 8 and 22.
Buckle up, the bull riders are back in town
Get ready for two massive days of rodeo action at the Circle L Australia 2026 National Finals Rodeo, taking over the Ipswich Showgrounds on November 20-21. Watch the nation’s top competitors go all out across three adrenaline-fuelled rounds as they battle for championship glory in the ultimate showdown of the rodeo season. And the action doesn’t stop at the pens - get ready for cane toad racing, kick up your heels with line dancing, and party into the night with live bands and DJs for one unforgettable weekend!
There are of course lots more great events happening across the region this month! For more ideas on how to plan your next Ipswich adventure, log onto www.visitipswich.com.au
Images supplied by Visit Ipswich, Ipswich City Council, as well as local businesses and tourism operators.