Riverstage

Riverstage is an open-air events venue in Kangaroo Point, Brisbane, set beside the Brisbane River within the City Botanic Gardens. Its garden and river setting gives live performances a distinct outdoor backdrop, while the venue’s layout is designed to feel relaxed and relatively intimate despite accommodating up to 9,000 patrons.

The programme covers local, national and international artists, along with family and community events. Riverstage has hosted major acts including Ed Sheeran, Florence and the Machine, and Powderfinger, so it suits a broad range of concert-goers rather than one particular music crowd. It can also be hired for private and community events, extending its use beyond the regular concert calendar.

The experience varies by event. General admission shows are standing-room events unless stated otherwise, with chairs not permitted; some events may allow a small blanket or flat-to-ground back support cushion. Reserved-seating concerts have installed seating, although patrons may still stand depending on the performance. Food and drink outlets operate inside the venue, and most concerts also have an artist merchandise stall near Gate 1. A first-aid station is available to the right of the stage, while a free cloakroom near Gate 1 can store some items that are not permitted inside.

Riverstage can work for solo concert-goers, groups and families, with all-ages events requiring children aged 12 and under to be accompanied by an adult. The venue also supports the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower for patrons who may need additional assistance. As an outdoor amphitheatre, events generally continue in wet weather unless conditions are considered unsafe, so checking the specific event details before heading in is worthwhile. Tickets are handled through Ticketmaster or another provider named in the event listing, and conditions such as entry times, seating and permitted items can vary between performances.