Brisbane’s 2026 Gig Guide: A Smorgasbord of International Stars Descend Down Under
Get ready, Brisbane! The live music scene is absolutely buzzing for 2026, with an incredible lineup of international heavyweights and beloved cult acts set to grace the city’s stages. Following the recent announcement of Lily Allen’s “revenge album” tour in October, the trickle of global talent is turning into a full-blown flood. If you’re looking to snag tickets to some of the hottest international shows in Brisbane that aren’t already sold out, you’ve come to the right place.
While the big names are always a drawcard, remember to also cast your net wider and support our vibrant local music scene. Lend an ear to emerging Australian artists and champion the smaller venues that are the lifeblood of our community.
Here’s a curated selection of the must-see international gigs hitting Brisbane in 2026:
February 2026: A Month of Rock, Metal, and Pop Anthems
The year kicks off with a bang, offering something for every musical palate.
Transvision Vamp
Wendy James, known for the band’s No. 3 Australian hit “Baby I Don’t Care,” is making a significant return. Reuniting with bassist Nick Parsons, this marks the first Transvision Vamp performance in 27 years, promising a nostalgic trip for fans.- Venue: The Triffid
- Dates: February 11-12
Dream Theater
The progressive metal titans from Boston, who have sold over 12 million albums, are returning to Australian shores. With three original members back in the fold and a vast catalogue of 16 studio albums to draw from, expect a night of intricate musicianship and epic soundscapes.- Venue: Fortitude Music Hall
- Date: Sunday, February 15
Lorde
The Grammy-winning New Zealand superstar is set to captivate Brisbane audiences. Following the success of her fourth album, which topped charts in Australia and the UK, there’s a strong possibility she’ll be weaving in timeless mega-hits like “Royals” alongside her newer material.- Venue: Brisbane Entertainment Centre
- Date: Monday, February 16
Halsey
Renowned for her breakout 2015 album “Badlands,” the American singer-songwriter’s latest tour is more than just a concert; it’s a theatrical spectacle. Expect elaborate Broadway-style productions, complete with ambitious scenery, dazzling costuming, and intricate choreography.- Venue: Riverstage
- Date: Tuesday, February 17
Good Charlotte
The skate-punk heroes from Maryland are making a long-awaited comeback after an eight-year hiatus. Their return is bolstered by their eighth studio album, “Motel Du Cap,” and fans can anticipate a high-energy performance filled with their signature anthems.- Venue: Brisbane Entertainment Centre
- Date: Thursday, February 19
Morcheeba
The enduring UK electronic act, fronted by the iconic Skye Edwards and with Ross Godfrey at the helm, continues to deliver their signature blend of trip-hop and chillout. Prepare to be enchanted by hits like “Rome Wasn’t Built in a Day.”- Venue: Fortitude Music Hall
- Date: Friday, February 20
Ed Sheeran
The global phenomenon returns with his signature loop pedal magic for a massive three-night stand at Suncorp Stadium. Fresh off the release of his new album “Play,” Sheeran will be supported by a stellar lineup including Vance Joy, Mia Wray, and Aaron Rowe, ensuring a weekend of musical excellence.- Venue: Suncorp Stadium
- Dates: February 20-22
Pulp
Britpop legends Jarvis Cocker and three core members of Pulp are bringing their celebrated reunion tour to Brisbane. Following a triumphant return last year with their new album “More,” these will be the band’s first Australian shows in 13 years, guaranteeing singalongs to classics like “Common People” and “Disco 2000.”- Venue: Riverstage
- Date: Tuesday, February 24
Christone “Kingfish” Ingram
Hailed by Rolling Stone as a “rare 21st-century guitar hero,” this Mississippi blues prodigy is a must-see. Mentored by the likes of Buddy Guy and even the Rolling Stones, Ingram’s jaw-dropping talent is set to electrify The Triffid.- Venue: The Triffid
- Date: Wednesday, February 25
Ethel Cain
The enigmatic Southern gothic songstress, Hayden Anhedönia, is a critical darling. Arriving to promote her new album “Willoughby Tucker, I’ll Always Love You,” her unique sound is highly anticipated by fans and critics alike.- Venue: Fortitude Music Hall
- Date: February 26 (February 25 is already sold out)
G-Flip
Australia’s own drumming, singing, and producing queer icon, G-Flip, is bringing their energetic “Dream Ride” tour to Brisbane. Joining them on stage will be Canadian support act The Beaches!, promising a vibrant and inclusive night.- Venue: Riverstage
- Date: Friday, February 27
Basement Jaxx
The legendary UK electronic duo, who recently stole the show at Coachella 2025, are returning to Australia for the first time since 2010. Prepare for an electrifying dance party with these pioneers of house music.- Venue: Riverstage
- Date: Sunday, March 1
Leftfield
Celebrating 36 years of influential UK dance music, Leftfield embarks on an Antipodean tour. Brisbane fans can expect a sonic journey with support from local favourite Late Night Tuff Guy.- Venue: The Tivoli
- Date: Thursday, March 5
Linkin Park
With new vocalist Emily Armstrong stepping in following the passing of Chester Bennington, the nu-metal powerhouse is charging ahead. This tour will feature electrifying new material such as “Heavy Is the Crown,” alongside timeless anthems from their three-decade career.- Venue: Brisbane Entertainment Centre
- Dates: March 3 & 5
March 2026: Hip-Hop Royalty, Britpop Icons, and Australian Legends
March continues the onslaught of incredible music, with a strong showing from both international and homegrown talent.
Hilltop Hoods
Australia’s undisputed hip-hop royalty are taking their stadium tour across the nation, following the release of their ninth album, “Fall from the Light.” They’ll be joined by a formidable support lineup including Maverick Sabre, Trials, and DJ Total Eclipse.- Venue: Brisbane Entertainment Centre
- Date: March 13 (March 14 is already sold out)
Bernard Fanning with Kasey Chambers
As part of the “On the Banks festival,” Powderfinger frontman Bernard Fanning will be celebrating the 20th anniversary of his acclaimed solo album “Tea and Sympathy.” He’ll be joined by a star-studded cast of collaborators, including Kasey Chambers, The Paper Kites, Troy Cassar-Daley, Jem Cassar-Daley, and Georgia Mooney, for what promises to be an unforgettable evening.- Venue: Cultural Forecourt, South Bank
- Date: Sunday, March 15
Babymetal
Prepare for a genre-bending spectacle! The Japanese kawaii metal band, Babymetal, masterfully fuses heavy metal intensity with adorable vocals and choreographed dance routines. If you know, you know – this is a truly unique live experience.- Venue: Riverstage
- Date: Sunday, March 22
Wu-Tang Clan
The legendary hip-hop supergroup is set to embark on what is being billed as their “final time” on Australian soil. All living members, including RZA, GZA, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, Method Man, Inspectah Deck, U-God, Masta Killa, Cappadonna, and Ol’ Dirty Bastard’s son, Young Dirty Bastard, will grace the stage, promising an epic night of iconic beats and rhymes.- Venue: Brisbane Entertainment Centre
- Date: Wednesday, March 25
The Black Crowes
The bar-room rock gods from Atlanta, who dominated the 1990s, are bringing their blues-infused rock back to Brisbane. Fans can expect to hear all their massive hits, including “Hard to Handle,” “Jealous Again,” “Remedy,” and “Twice As Hard.”- Venue: Fortitude Music Hall
- Date: Monday, April 6
April & May 2026: A Diverse Mix of Genres and Eras
As autumn approaches, the concert schedule remains packed with a variety of musical styles.
Baker Boy
The Yolngu artist, who released his highly anticipated second album last October, masterfully blends ancestral influences with cutting-edge production. Experience his new material alongside fan favourites like “Cool as Hell.”- Venue: The Triffid
- Date: Saturday, April 11
Bic Runga
A beloved icon from Aotearoa, Bic Runga is returning to perform songs from her new album, “Red Sunset.” Her soulful voice and heartfelt songwriting are sure to resonate with audiences.- Venue: The Princess
- Date: Saturday, April 11
Regurgitator
Brisbane’s own genre-bending legends, Ben, Quan, Pete, and Sarah, are set to deliver a night of pure fun, playing all their golden hits from “Kong Foo Sing” to “Polyester Girl.”- Venue: The Tivoli
- Date: Friday, April 24
Deftones
The influential nu-metal giants from Sacramento boast nearly 40 years of groundbreaking music. They arrive with their latest album, “Private Music,” and will be joined by special guests Interpol and Ecca Vandal for what promises to be an unforgettable double bill.- Venue: Brisbane Entertainment Centre
- Dates: May 6 & 7
Boy & Bear
The Sydney indie folk five-piece are back, celebrating 15 years since their double-platinum album “Moonfire.” They’ll be performing all their beloved favourites, with special guests The Dreggs, Bear’s Den, and Rageflower.- Venue: Riverstage
- Date: Friday, May 8
Eskimo Joe
Perth’s stalwart alternative rock trio are marking the 20th anniversary of their iconic album “Black Fingernails, Red Wine” by performing it in its entirety. This is a chance for fans to relive a classic from start to finish.- Venue: The Triffid
- Date: Saturday, May 9
Five
Get ready to “Keep on Movin’” as the Simon Cowell-assembled UK boy band, who sold over 20 million records, reunite with all five original members. This is a chance to relive the pop magic of the early 2000s.- Venue: Brisbane Entertainment Centre
- Date: Wednesday, May 20
Ron Sexsmith
The Canadian crooner, known for his intricate and playful songwriting, is finally bringing his much-anticipated Australian tour to Brisbane. Prepare for an evening of thoughtful melodies and poignant lyrics.- Venue: Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre
- Date: Sunday, April 19
Ball Park Music
Brisbane’s much-loved jangle-pop outfit is hitting the road again for another rock ‘n’ roll adventure. They’ll be playing a mix of fan favourites and deeper cuts from their extensive catalogue.- Venue: The Tivoli
- Date: Friday, June 5
Suzanne Vega
The “new-waif” legend returns to serenade Brisbane with hits from her illustrious 40-year career. Hum along to classics like “Tom’s Diner” and “Marlene on the Wall.”- Venue: Fortitude Music Hall
- Date: Saturday, September 12
September & October 2026: A Grand Finale to the Year’s Concerts
The year concludes with a series of highly anticipated performances, capping off an incredible season of live music.
Conan Gray
The former YouTuber turned global pop sensation, who has sold out iconic venues like Madison Square Garden and Wembley Arena, is bringing his “Wishbone” world tour to Brisbane. Expect a night of anthemic pop hits.- Venue: Brisbane Entertainment Centre
- Date: Tuesday, September 29
Ashnikko
Prepare for an unpredictable and exhilarating show from the “unhinged bubblegum rapper-vamp.” Ashnikko’s “Smoochies” tour is set to bring a wild and visually stunning performance to Brisbane, with little inkling of what’s about to hit.- Venue: Riverstage
- Date: Friday, September 25
Olivia Dean
Fresh off the success of her Triple J Hottest 100-topping song “Man I Need” from her second album, “The Art of Loving,” London-born Olivia Dean is set to impress Brisbane audiences with her soulful vocals and infectious melodies.- Venue: Brisbane Entertainment Centre
- Date: Tuesday, October 13
Lily Allen
The quirky pop songstress is touring her autobiographical album “West End Girl,” which has cemented her status as a household name. She’ll be performing the album in its entirety, promising a searingly honest and captivating show.- Venue: Brisbane Entertainment Centre
- Date: Friday, October 23
