6 days ago
There's a public holiday for the Ekka today – here's what you need to know
If you work or study in Brisbane, you may be entitled to a public holiday today.
Here's why, and what you need to know.
Across Queensland, residents are entitled to a public holiday for their region's agricultural, horticultural or industrial show.
There's no statewide show day, so instead these are held on separate days, depending on the region.
In total, there are about 60 different show days.
Some of these are observed across multiple regions on the one day.
Today, Wednesday August 13, is Queensland's most well-known of all of its show holidays.
This one is a holiday to celebrate the state's annual agricultural show – the Ekka.
It's sometimes called 'People's Day' or is referred to as the 'show holiday' or, because it usually falls on a Wednesday, as 'Ekka Wednesday'.
The Ekka, otherwise known as the Queensland Agricultural Show, is the largest of Queensland's agricultural shows, often attracting 400,000 visitors a year as well as 10,000 animals and 21,000 competition entrants.
It's held in August each year at the Brisbane Showgrounds and has been running annually since 1876, with a few exceptions.
Traditionally, it has provided an opportunity for Queenslanders from across the state to showcase livestock, horticulture, creative arts, and other talents.
One of its most celebrated traditions is its famous strawberry sundaes.
Ekka Wednesday is generally one of the busiest days of the entire show, with the Grand Parade being held.
Importantly, your eligibility for show holidays is dependent on where you work or go to school, not where you live.
Today's holiday applies to people within the Brisbane City Council area.
Show holidays vary around the state.
The Ekka show holiday in regions near Brisbane like Logan City, Lockyer Valley, Scenic Rim and the Somerset Region was observed on Monday, August 11.
Residents of areas like Moreton Bay, Gladstone, Bundaberg and the Redlands also had a public holiday on Monday for the Ekka.
But in Ipswich, for example, the show holiday was held in May.
If the Ekka isn't your thing, many attractions like museums, galleries and markets will be running on Wednesday.
Many cafes, restaurants and bars will also be open.
It's best to check with each individual establishment before visiting, and be aware a public holiday surcharge may apply.
Many shops will also be open, but some will have reduced opening hours.
Depending on your employment arrangements, working on a public holiday like a show day may attract penalty rates.
It's best to refer to your specific award to find out how this applies to you.
