The Royal Queensland Show, or Ekka as the locals call it, is coming back to Brisbane this August. From the 10th to the 18th, the Brisbane Showgrounds will once again host this yearly get-together that brings rural country life to the city. The Ekka’s been around since 1876, and it’s a big part of Queensland life. There are all sorts to see and do — competitions, animal shows, rides, food, and entertainment. But for many folks, especially the kids, a major draw remains the Showbags. At the bustling Showbags pavilion, everything from classic party bags to trending novelty bags is up for grabs!
More Than a Century of Country Spirit
Run by the RNA and staged at its original birthplace, the Brisbane Showgrounds, the Ekka brings the country and city together for a true celebration of agriculture. And, Showbags have been an important attraction for years at this historic show.
The Ekka’s animal pavilions are always a big draw. Visitors can get up close with farm animals, from fluffy sheep to impressive cattle that participate in competitions. It’s a rare opportunity for city folks to connect with rural life. There are also loads of smaller animals including dogs, cats, and fish!
Another crowd-pleaser is the wood-chopping competition. This event showcases the strength and skill of axe men and axe women as they race to chop through thick logs, a nod to Queensland’s timber industry history.
For thrill-seekers, the sideshow alley is the place to be. With its array of rides, roller coasters, and game stalls which offer chances to win oversized stuffed animals, it is also a perennial favourite.
The agricultural displays and competitions are at the heart of the Ekka. From the largest pumpkin contest to the intricate fruit and vegetable displays, these exhibits celebrate Queensland’s farming heritage. The Grand Parade, featuring prize-winning livestock, is a much-anticipated event that encapsulates the show’s agricultural roots.
Food is a big part of the Ekka experience. The Fresh Food Pavilion showcases Queensland’s agricultural bounty, while the numerous food stalls offer everything from gourmet local produce to traditional Ekka strawberry sundaes.
And when you think of sweet sensations, think of all the Cadbury showbags at Ekka!
Showbags at Ekka — Nostalgia Meets Trends
Showbags have been part of the Ekka for as long as most of us can remember. They’ve changed over the years, of course. These days, there’s a pretty wide range to choose from.
At the Showbag pavilion, make sure you explore all the fan-favourite Darell Lea Showbags on display.
Then there are the novelty bags. These eye-catching bags are perfect for lovers of pop culture and feature all sorts of nostalgic and trending themes. Whether you’re a sports lover, collector of NRL merchandise, or want to carry your favourite TV show’s collectibles, these are the bags for you.
And of course, there’s always the Cadbury bags. They’ve been an Ekka staple for years. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, you’ll probably want to check these out. They come in a staggering variety of Cadbury delights; some of which you grew up with, and some flavours you’ve never tasted before.
Plan Your Day as Show Bags Lead the Way
Choosing show bags can be part of the fun of Ekka. Some people like to plan ahead, others just see what looks good on the day. If you’re bringing kids, it might be worth setting a budget or a limit on how many bags they can get. It’s easy to get carried away with all the options.
If you’re new to the Ekka, or if you haven’t been for a while, the Showbag pavilion can be a bit overwhelming. There are usually loads of show bags on offer, like the newest NRL-themed novelty showbag or the Aftershocks-themed party bags. Some people like to do a lap first to see what’s available before making their choices. Others dive right in and grab what looks good.
One tip from Ekka regulars is to pace yourself. It’s tempting to buy loads of bags right at the start, but remember you’ll have to carry them around for the rest of the day.
Can’t Be There? You Can Still Get Show Bags!
If you feel like you won’t be able to make it to Ekka this year, don’t worry. Now, everyone can buy showbags online before or after the show. Some folks like this because it means they don’t have to queue up on the day while others prefer the traditional way, exploring the variety of show bags in person with their loved ones. If you do buy showbags online, you can get them delivered anywhere in Australia.
So, if you’re planning to head to the Ekka this year, it’s on from August 10-18. Remember, the Ekka is a chance to see a bit of rural Queensland life, try some different foods, watch some entertainment, and maybe learn something new. The showbags are the icing on the cake — or should that be the chocolate in the showbag?