What’s On at This Year’s Hills Festival: Movies, Music, and More

This May, Albany Creek and surrounding suburbs will be buzzing with energy as the Hills Festival returns—bigger, brighter, and more community-focused than ever. Over four weeks, locals can look forward to live entertainment, outdoor events, and laid-back days in the park, all designed to celebrate what makes this part of Brisbane special.


Read: PrideFest Moreton Bay 2025 Brings Colour and Celebration to Strathpine


Now in its eighth year, the festival brings together the Hills District—stretching from Arana Hills to Albany Creek—for a diverse line-up of activities that embrace local talent, family fun, and good old-fashioned community connection.

Something for Everyone

Hills festival
Photo credit: Hills Festival/Facebook

The Hills Festival isn’t about just one big event—it’s a collection of experiences spread throughout the month. You might find yourself watching a movie under the stars, listening to live jazz with a drink in hand, or browsing market stalls on a sunny afternoon. Many events are free, making it easy for families and friends to join in without breaking the bank. Highlights this year include:

Movie in the Park – 3 May

Enjoy an open-air screening of Trolls Band Together at Sargents Reserve in Eatons Hill. A perfect evening for families, complete with that classic under-the-stars magic.

Jazz & Shiraz – 11 May

Unwind at George Willmore Park in Ferny Hills with an afternoon of smooth jazz, good company, and a glass of wine in hand.

Music in the Valley – 18 May

Head to Samford Showgrounds for an afternoon of local live music, food trucks, and a relaxed country atmosphere.

Hills Carnivale – 31 May

Don’t miss the grand finale at George Willmore Park. Expect rides, market stalls, a kids’ stage, live entertainment—and a fireworks display to close out the festival in style.

The festival offers a chance to enjoy the best of the region without having to travel far. From live music and food trucks to fireworks and face painting, there are plenty of reasons to step out and be part of the festivities.

A Festival with Heart

Hills festival
Photo credit: Hills Festival/Facebook

What really sets the Hills Festival apart is its focus on community. It’s not just about entertainment—it’s about bringing people together, supporting local artists and businesses, and making memories with those around us. 


Read: Albany Creek Seniors Embrace Active Lifestyle with JOY Exercise Program


Whether you’re heading out with kids, meeting friends, or just looking for something new to do on the weekend, there’s a little bit of magic waiting this May. The full program, including dates, times, and locations, is available online at www.hillsfestival.com.au.

Published 21-April-2025

Excitement Builds as Moreton Bay Welcomes Back Beloved Hills Festival

Moreton Bay’s ‘The Hills Festival’ returns for its seventh spectacular year, shaping up to be the biggest and most diverse yet, with something for everyone to enjoy.


Read: Pandemonium Tour Rocks On Despite Line-Up Shake-Up and Venue Changes, Moves Brisbane Show to Eatons Hill


Here are the free activities to look forward to each week at the 2024 Hills Festival:

Week 1

3 May 2024

Photo credit: hillsfestival.com.au

The Hills Festival will kick off on May 3 with a “Movie in the Park” event at Eatons Hill, where attendees can enjoy an outdoor screening of the 2023 animated film Trolls Band Together

In the movie, Poppy discovers that her friend Branch was once part of a popular boy band called “BroZone” with his brothers Floyd, John Dory, Spruce, and Clay. When Floyd is kidnapped, Branch and Poppy embark on a journey to reunite the band and rescue him. 

Please note that closed captions will be provided during the film to ensure accessibility for all attendees.

Week 2

12 May 2024

Photo credit: hillsfestival.com.au

The following weekend, on Mother’s Day, the Ferny Hills community will host a “Jazz & Shiraz” celebration, pairing smooth sounds with delicious local wines.

Spread out a picnic blanket and sample delectable bites from food trucks as you soak up the musical atmosphere. The Jazz & Shiraz event will feature a licensed bar offering an excellent selection of regional wines, local craft beers, and gourmet cheese platters.

Week 3

18 May 2024

Photo credit: hillsfestival.com.au

Mark your calendars for May 18, from 1pm-5pm as Music in the Valley Samford promises an unforgettable experience at the Samford Showgrounds. Featuring a delightful lineup of local artists, food trucks, and festive face painting activities, this captivating event ensures an afternoon filled with joy, harmony, and a strong sense of community spirit.

What to Bring:

  • Picnic rug
  • Chairs
  • Hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Refillable water bottle

Week 4

25 May 2024

Hills Festival
Photo credit: hillsfestival.com.au

The Hills Festival culminates in the annual Hills Carnivale, a free, family-friendly event on May 25 at George Willmore Park. This one-day celebration features an action-packed program across two stages, with one area dedicated solely to activities for kids.

Little ones will delight in amusement rides, workshops, games, and roving entertainers in the designated Kids Zone. Meanwhile, parents can explore the numerous lifestyle markets and multicultural food stalls while enjoying live music from local artists.


Read: Echoes of Pink Floyd to Recreate Historic Pink Floyd Tour at Eatons Hill Grand Ballroom


For a full schedule of events and ticket information, be sure to visit the festival’s website at www.hillsfestival.com.au. With so much on offer, this year’s Hills Festival is shaping up to be the best one yet.

Published 17-April-2024