From Saturday May 30 to Sunday June 7, the Queensland Government is hosting and supporting a program of initiatives around Queensland Week – a celebration of the state’s official separation from New South Wales on June 6 1859. The week-long program of events encourages us Sunshine State-dwellers to get together and celebrate all the things we love about our great state, from the fresh produce and lush landscapes, to the rich culture and laidback lifestyle.

There’s a variety of events and activities on offer here in our fair city, including MDA’s ever-popular LUMINOUS lantern parade and concert at South Bank Parklands on Friday June 5, welcoming new Queenslanders to the state and the Global Food Village Street Festival on Sunday June 7. On the official Queensland Day, June 6, you can head to the Government House Open Day and get a sneak peek inside the grounds. QAG will also be hosting free talks from special guests on Saturday May 30 and Tuesday June 2 to celebrate the Queensland Art Gallery Collection and The Founding Years 1895–1915: A Collection of Queensland exhibition.

Throughout the week, Queenslanders are invited to paint the town maroon, which includes the lighting or decorating of many buildings, bridges and landmarks in our state’s signature hue. Around town you’ll spot a number of iconic landmarks lit up from May 30 to June 7, such as the Celebration Lawn waterfall and lake fountain in Roma Street Parkland, the Gasometer at Gasworks, Judith Wright Centre, QPAC, the Story Bridge, Treasury Casino and City Hall. When you hit the streets to paint the town maroon, be sure to share your decorations or experiences on social media using #paintthetownmaroon and #qldweek to enter the draw to win from a $15,000 prize pool. You can also participate in Queensland Day in the Office on Friday June 5 by simply dishing up some Queensland fare, throwing some maroon streamers around your workplace or dressing for the occasion.

Check out the full Queensland Week program online or have a gander at the events map to see what’s happening in your neck of the woods.