What’s on: 10 things to keep the whole family entertained this weekend in the Darling Downs

From the best art exhibits around town, to the latest blockbuster Boxing Day movie releases, or whether you’re looking to kick start those New Year’s resolutions early, here’s 10 things to do this weekend.

Toowoomba Farmers’ Markets are on every Saturday morning from 7am to noon.

As we countdown to the New Year and the final days of the year, there’s still plenty of holiday fun for the whole family this weekend. From the best art exhibits around town, to the latest blockbuster Boxing Day movie releases, or whether you’re looking to kick start those New Year’s resolutions early, we have you covered. Here’s 10 things to do.

1. Watch Summer Horse Racing

Enjoy an evening of action-packed live horse racing at the iconic Clifford Park Racecourse on Saturday night.

Betting ring and main bar opens from 10am. Live racing from 4.30pm.

Entry is $10 for adults, $5 for concession cardholders and free for children under 12.

2. Discover Ellis Rowan

Head to the Cobb and Co Museum this weekend to step into the captivating world of trailblazing 19th-century artist Ellis Rowan.

On display are 28 of the artist’s breathtaking watercolour paintings depicting plants and flowers.

The exhibit is on at the museum until April 21, 2025.

3. Catch a film

Avoid the heat this weekend and enjoy the latest blockbuster Boxing Day film releases at Grand Central and The Strand Cinemas.

Keep the kids entertained with screenings of Sonic the Hedgehog 3, Mufasa: The Lion King, and Moana 2.

You can also catch screenings of the new eagerly anticipated Robbie Williams biopic Better Man, along with Wicked, A Real Pain, and Gladiator II.

4. Saturday and Sunday Markets

Take a stroll through the Toowoomba Farmers’ Market at 27 Lindsay St, East Toowoomba, near the windmills at Cobb and Co Museum from 7am to noon.

From the best seasonal produce to local wines and spirits, there’s something for everyone at the farmers’ markets.

The PCYC markets are also on every Sunday at 219 James St from 7am to 12.30pm.

5. Science Nature Art Exhibit

Be sure to also visit the Science Nature Art exhibit at the Cobb and Co museum to dive into a world where science, nature, and art collide.

The exhibit is perfect for a family day out these school holidays, and is free with admission.

The museum is open 9am-4pm daily.

6. Go for a Park Run

Kick start those New Year’s resolutions early by joining in on the weekly parkrun in Queens Park on Saturday morning from 7am.

7. Visit Highfields Pioneer Village

Step back in time and discover Queensland’s heritage at the Highfields Pioneer Village.

Visit the iconic Ambulance Museum and explore Toowoomba’s Fire Brigade Museum.

The Highfields Pioneer Village is open daily 10am-4pm.

8. John Elliott Exhibition

Discover the captivating photography of John Elliott this weekend at the Toowoomba Regional Art Gallery.

The Gallery is open Wednesday to Sunday 10.30pm-3.30pm and admission is free.

9. Visit Picnic Point Lookout and Parkland

Enjoy sweeping panoramic views from Toowoomba’s heritage-listed Picnic Point Lookout and Parkland.

Be sure to stop by the cafe and restaurant and take in the views over a coffee or delicious breakfast or lunch.

10. Catch rock band Dirty Water

You can also catch rock band Dirty Water performing hit songs from bands ACDC, Foo Fighters and Metallica – to name just a few – at the Irish Club Hotel on Saturday from 8pm.

Originally published as What’s on: 10 things to keep the whole family entertained this weekend in the Darling Downs