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Just a short drive west of Brisbane, where the city skyline melts into wide open skies, you’ll find a little slice of country magic called the Lockyer Valley. It’s the kind of place that invites you to pack the car, roll down the windows, and let the winding roads and fresh air set the pace. Known as Queensland’s very own “Salad Bowl,” the valley is a patchwork of fertile farmland, rolling hills and genuine country hospitality.

And this spring, the region will be buzzing with colour, community and good old-fashioned charm as the Laidley Spring Festival returns from Friday 12 to Sunday 14 September 2025. There’s something about spring in the valley that brings everything to life, and this year’s “Retro Revival” theme adds a nostalgic twist to a well-loved tradition.

The festivities kick off Friday morning, as Laidley comes alive with colour, creativity and community spirit. Explore a treasure trove of events including the Spring Gardening Fair, Quilt & Craft Expo, Orchid Show, Gem Show, Under 5’s Day, Artist Exhibition and a beautiful series of Open Gardens dotted around the region. It’s a celebration of sights, scents and handmade wonders, with something to spark joy in every visitor.

Then, as the sun sets, the vibe shifts to a twilight picnic at the Laidley Recreational Reserve from 5pm to 9pm. Live music from local musos drifting through the air, festoon lights strung overhead, and market stalls serving up delicious eats. Grab some street food, throw down a picnic rug and soak up a relaxed country night with mates under the stars.

By Saturday morning, Laidley is buzzing with life—the scent of freshly brewed coffee mingling with spring blooms, and the region’s largest country market ready for you to wander and explore. Then at 10am, all eyes turn to the main street as the iconic Street Parade rolls through town in a joyful flurry of colour, vintage cars, brass bands and proud community spirit all fitting the ‘Retro Revival’ theme.

The fun continues with family-friendly entertainment, including Elmo and Cookie Monster, a set from rising country star Denvah, and high-energy hip hop group Gee’d Up. Car lovers will want to check out the gleaming classics at the Show ‘n’ Shine, while foodies can catch celebrity chef Matt Golinski cooking up seasonal delights with local produce.

On Sunday, head to Forest Hill for Bee Happy Day at the School of Arts Hall from 8:30am to 12pm. This buzzing little event is perfect for families with kids aged 6 months and up, with themed crafts, circus workshops, bubble discos, face painting, food stalls and a sweet artisan market.

The best part? Most of the festival fun is free, with a few community events asking for a gold coin or small entry to support local organisers. There’s free parking, a park-and-ride shuttle, pet-friendly vibes (on lead, of course), and accessible spaces throughout the precinct.

When it’s time to unwind, the Lockyer Valley has a stay to suit every traveller. Snuggle into a country motel, kick back in a quirky cabin or glamping tent, or roll into a free rest area if you’re on a budget. Families will love creature-comfort campgrounds, and for those chasing luxury, boutique stays are just a scenic drive away. Wherever you land, you’ll be welcomed with genuine country hospitality and that easy-going Lockyer Valley charm.

Join chef Matt Golinski

IN THE PRODUCER'S PATCH

Get ready for a delicious new addition to the Laidley Spring Festival - the Producer’s Patch is coming to the heart of the main festival precinct!

This exciting new space celebrates the region’s finest growers and producers, and to top it all off, beloved celebrity chef Matt Golinski will be joining us on Saturday 13 September for three live cooking demonstrations.

Watch him bring local ingredients to life with his signature flair, right before your eyes.

A much-loved figure in Australia’s culinary scene, Matt first captured national attention as one of the original team members on the hit television show Ready Steady Cook.

Since then, he has served as Executive Chef at some of Queensland’s top restaurants and founded his own successful catering company.

Based on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, Matt divides his time between consulting for restaurants, appearing as a guest chef at festivals and food events across the country, and writing his popular food columns and blog.

In 2018, he joined Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas as Consultant Executive Chef, where he continues to create menus that celebrate the rich produce of his region. He still spends several days a week in the kitchen, developing fresh, seasonal recipes.

Q&A WITH CELEBRITY

Chef Matt Golinski

Ahead of the Laidley Spring Festival, we caught up with Matt to learn more about his connection to the region, his passion for local food, and what he's most excited about for this year’s event.

Q: What are you looking forward to the most about this year’s festival?

A: This will be my first time attending the Laidley Spring Festival, and I’m really looking forward to experiencing it firsthand. I’ve always had a deep appreciation for the Lockyer Valley and have visited many times over the years. I’m especially excited to take the stage and shine a spotlight on the region’s incredible farmers and producers who grow the amazing food we all enjoy.

Q: What can people expect from your cooking demonstrations?

A: When I’m on-stage cooking, it’s not about showing off my skills – it’s about celebrating the incredible talent of the people who grow our food. I love working with local producers because every ingredient has a story. By sharing those stories, people start to see their food differently – not just as a shopping list, but as something grown with care, passion, and pride. I’d say my cooking demonstrations are about 70 percent entertainment and 30 percent education - it’s about engaging the audience while sharing useful insights

Q: What will you be cooking on stage?

A: I haven’t decided on the menu just yet, but there will be some great produce to work with. By using the beautiful, fresh produce from the Lockyer Valley, I hope to inspire people to see what I’m cooking with and feel confident to give it a go themselves. I’ll be using some fantastic ingredients from Australian Organic Farmers, and I also plan to connect with other local growers and producers in the region to learn more about what they offer and hopefully feature their produce on stage as well. In my work, I’ve already had the pleasure of meeting many producers from the Lockyer Valley, so I’m really looking forward to reconnecting with familiar faces and getting to know others I haven’t met yet.

Q: What would you like to say to encourage people to come out to the Laidley Spring Festival?

A: The festival is going to be a fantastic weekend, and I’m really looking forward to getting out there and meeting everyone. If you’re after a fun spring getaway filled with great food, vibrant events, and a real sense of community, then the Lockyer Valley is the place to be this September.