2025 events you can’t miss in the Southern Downs and Granite Belt
Mark your calendar for an unforgettable 2025 in the Southern Downs and Granite Belt! Get ready for a year full of excitement, culture, and fun, with events ranging from family-friendly festivals to thrilling motorsport and local winter traditions. Here’s a sneak peek at the top events you won’t want to miss.
Darling Downs Heavy Horse Festival
Get a taste of the region’s agricultural heritage at the Darling Downs Heavy Horse Festival in Allora. Held in March, this unique event showcases heavy horses in action, with demonstrations, competitions and displays that celebrate the power and grace of these magnificent animals. It’s a fantastic family-friendly day out.
Dates: 15-16 March 2025
Tickets and more: heavyhorsefestival.com.au
Snowflakes in Stanthorpe
Embrace the festive winter spirit with Snowflakes in Stanthorpe, a magical celebration that fills the town with snow, markets and winter wonder. It’s the perfect destination to experience the charm of Queensland’s coolest town, with a guaranteed chance of throwing snowballs!
Dates: 4-6 July 2025
Tickets and more: snowflakesinstanthorpe.com.au
Jumpers and Jazz in July
Celebrate winter in true Southern Downs style at Warwick’s Jumpers and Jazz in July. This iconic event combines woolly art displays, live jazz music and cosy winter vibes. Stroll through the streets of Warwick and enjoy the community spirit as the town transforms into a festival of warmth and creativity.
Dates: 17-27 July 2025
Tickets and more: jumpersandjazz.com.au
Historic Leyburn Sprints
The Historic Leyburn Sprints in August is a must for motorsport fans. This thrilling event sees historic cars racing through the streets of Leyburn, offering both adrenaline-pumping action and a unique slice of history. It’s the perfect event for those who want to experience the speed, sound and excitement of vintage racing.
Dates: 23-24 August 2025
Tickets and more: leyburnmotorsprints.com.au
CelticFest
Spring brings the vibrant CelticFest to Warwick, a festival celebrating all things Celtic. Enjoy live music, dancing and traditional food as you immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of this cultural event. Whether you’re of Celtic descent or just love a good celebration, CelticFest is sure to be a highlight of your year.
Dates: 4-6 October 2025
Tickets and more: celticfestqld.com.au
Warwick Rodeo and Gold Cup Campdraft
Yee ha! No visit to the Southern Downs is complete without experiencing the Ariat Warwick Rodeo and Pryde’s Easifeed Warwick Gold Cup Campdraft, Australia’s largest rodeo. Held in October, the event features rodeo competitions, bull riding, live music, and more, all set against the backdrop of Warwick’s rural beauty. Don’t miss out on this iconic celebration of country culture!
Dates: 20-26 October 2025 2025
Tickets and more: warwickshowandrodeo.com.au
Morgan Park Raceway Events
Supercheap Auto TCR Australia Series – Image by Chaz Mostert
For motorsport enthusiasts, Morgan Park Raceway is the place to be in 2025, with a calendar full of high-speed action. Whether you’re into car races, motorcycle events, or watching the races from the sidelines, there’s always something happening at Morgan Park to keep your adrenaline pumping.
Dates: Various dates throughout 2025
Tickets and more: morganparkraceway.com.au
Winery Events
Throughout the year, the Granite Belt’s renowned wineries will be hosting events that are perfect for wine lovers. From Winemaker for a Weekend to the popular Grazing the Granite Belt to winery restaurant soirees, these events offer a relaxed and scenic way to enjoy the region’s finest wines. A great addition to any itinerary, these winery events are the perfect excuse for a weekend getaway.
Dates: Various dates throughout 2025
Tickets and more: Check out the full event calendar for winery events
With so many incredible events happening throughout the year, there’s never been a better time to visit the Southern Downs and Granite Belt. Whether you’re a motorsport fan, a foodie, or someone who loves a good festival, 2025 promises to be a year full of unforgettable experiences.
While You’re Here
Make a weekend of it by checking out these other things to do in the area:
- National Park lover? Make sure you check out Girraween, Sundown or Main Range National Parks.
- Here’s a local’s guide to spending 24 hours in Stanthorpe.
- Travelling in Spring or Summer? Here’s our top 7 must visit waterholes to check out.
- If you have the kids in tow, make sure you check out these 20 family activities in the Southern Downs and Granite Belt.