If you’re after a genuine country weekend away without straying too far from home, the Laidley Spring Festival is worth pencilling into the calendar. Just an hour’s drive from both Brisbane and Toowoomba, this much-loved regional celebration returns to the Lockyer Valley from September 11-13, transforming the towns of Laidley and Forest Hill into a colourful showcase of community spirit, country hospitality, live entertainment and springtime tradition.

Where and when

The festival runs across Laidley on Friday 11 and Saturday 12 September, before wrapping up with a dedicated family day at nearby Forest Hill on Sunday 13 September. It’s dog-friendly too, so there’s no need to leave the four-legged family members behind.

Lockyer Valley Mayor Tanya Milligan says the festival’s growing popularity reflects a broader shift toward slower, more authentic regional travel. She describes it as a celebration of community, connection, local talent and good old-fashioned hospitality, and says it’s become an increasingly attractive weekend escape for Australians seeking a genuine break from the everyday.

What’s on across the weekend

Friday 11 September kicks off with the Twilight Feast & Fest at Laidley Recreational Reserve from 5pm to 9pm, featuring live music from the Rheanna Leschke Band, Maddi and the Dreamers, and the crowd-favourite ANTHEMS! Live Band, alongside roving entertainment and food and treasure stalls. During the day, garden lovers can wander the Spring Orchid Show and floral displays by the Lutheran Church, craft enthusiasts can browse the Quilt and Craft Show, and art lovers can take in more than 20 local artists at the Spring Art Exhibition. History buffs shouldn’t miss Das Neumann Haus, a German Settlement Museum hand-built in 1893, now serving up apple strudel, German sausages and Devonshire teas.

Saturday 12 September is the festival’s biggest day, opening with the Grand Street Parade at 10am, featuring country-inspired floats, heritage trucks, vintage vehicles and marching bands under this year’s theme, Country Harvest. Families won’t want to miss the Bluey Live Interactive Experience, bringing Bluey and Bingo to life for younger festival-goers, followed by performances from Queensland country-pop outfit The Wet Whistles, rising star Kaitlyn Thomas, and Chloe Marks and The Mayhem. Car enthusiasts can admire hundreds of classic, custom and vintage vehicles at the iconic Show ‘n’ Shine at Ferrari Park, while The Producer’s Patch offers live cooking demonstrations celebrating the best of the Valley’s local produce, complete with a guest chef still to be announced.

Sunday 13 September shifts to Forest Hill for Bee Happy Day, a dedicated family celebration with arts and craft workshops, face painting, dancing and a local artisan market.

Plan your trip

With boutique accommodation, glamping, campgrounds and country pubs scattered throughout the Lockyer Valley, the Laidley Spring Festival makes for an easy, laid-back weekend away, whether you’re heading out for the day or making a full weekend of it.

If you need help arranging somewhere to stay for the weekend, contact the team at Travel at 60, who can help book your accommodation.

For more details and the full festival program, visit www.laidleyspringfestival.com.