Ekka People’s Day (The Royal National Agricultural)

Ekka People's Day (The Royal National Agricultural) is celebrated on the second or third Wednesday in August. In 2026, this date falls on August 12. This public holiday in Brisbane marks the Royal Queensland Show, also known as the Ekka, which is the largest and most popular festival in Queensland, showcasing the best of the region's agriculture and entertainment over ten days.

History of Ekka People's Day (The Royal National Agricultural)

The Royal Queensland Show, affectionately called the Ekka, began in 1876 as the Intercolonial Exhibition. That year, three breeds of cattle were exhibited to a crowd of 17,000 people, a remarkable turnout given Brisbane's population at the time was just over 20,000. The event was an immediate success and has been held annually ever since, with only two interruptions: 1919 due to the Spanish flu and 1942 during World War II.

In 1921, the show received the Royal prefix under a warrant from King George V, becoming the Royal National Agricultural and Industrial Association of Queensland Show. The nickname "Ekka" comes from the Queensland pronunciation of "Exhibition." The public holiday, known as Ekka People's Day, has traditionally been held on a Wednesday at the request of the RNA, who organize the show. Until 2022, it was always on the Wednesday during the show period, and it remains a public holiday only within the Brisbane City Council area.

Why is Ekka People's Day (The Royal National Agricultural) important?

Ekka People's Day celebrates Queensland's agricultural heritage and community spirit. The show attracts on average 400,000 people to the Brisbane Showgrounds each year, making it a cornerstone of local culture. It brings together farmers, families, and visitors to appreciate the region's produce, livestock, and traditional skills.

The event also supports local industries and charities. For example, the famous strawberry sundae sold at the Ekka helps fund medical research through The Common Good. The show provides a platform for rural and urban communities to connect, showcasing everything from champion cattle and prize vegetables to woodchopping and whipcracking competitions.

• Celebrates Queensland's agricultural traditions and rural life.
• Brings together over 400,000 visitors annually, fostering community bonds.
• Supports local farmers and producers by highlighting their best work.
• Raises funds for medical research through iconic treats like the strawberry sundae.
• Preserves heritage skills such as woodchopping, sheepdog trials, and bush poetry.

How to Celebrate Ekka People's Day (The Royal National Agricultural)

Celebrate Ekka People's Day by attending the Royal Queensland Show at the Brisbane Showgrounds in Bowen Hills. The show runs for nine days, with People's Day on the Wednesday public holiday being one of the busiest and most festive days. Enjoy the carnival rides, showbags, and the famous strawberry sundae made with Queensland strawberries and local ice cream. Visit the animal pavilions to see champion livestock, and don't miss the Grand Parade at 1:30pm on People's Day, featuring over 500 prize-winning animals.

For a budget-friendly experience, take advantage of Super Saver Days on other weekdays, pack a picnic, and use public transport with 50-cent fares to Exhibition Station, which opens specially for the Ekka. Explore the free attractions, including the Animal Nursery, Ag Education Hall, and nightly fireworks at EkkaNITES. Whether you come for the food, the rides, or the agricultural displays, Ekka People's Day offers something for everyone.

• Ride the carnival attractions at Sideshow Alley and Kids Carnival.
• Stock up on showbags with over 300 options ranging from candy to toys.
• Watch the nightly fireworks and EkkaNITES arena spectacular.
• Sample local produce at the Woolworths Fresh Food Pavilion and Gourmet Plaza.
• Participate in quirky traditions like the flower beard competition or drag queen bingo.

Ekka People's Day (The Royal National Agricultural) Dates