Social Events

Connecting with the Fandom

Worldcon is about connecting with fellow fans, discovering new friends who love science fiction and fantasy as much as you do, and finding those unexpected conversations that stay with you long after the convention ends. We’ve curated a vibrant lineup of social events, most at little to no cost, designed to help you explore Brisbane, meet the community, and let your own adventure unfold.

Hugo Awards

The biggest Worldcon event is the Hugo Awards, celebrating the very best in storytelling, creativity, and contribution to the. And because this will be Aussiecon, we’ll be adding a generous splash of Aussie flair. Think playful kangaroo‑inspired touches, an outback‑themed red carpet, iconic Aussie treats, and plenty of that unmistakable Australian humour.

We recognise that the Hugo Awards are a core responsibility of every Worldcon, and finalists’ input is essential to delivering a respectful and meaningful ceremony. We’ll keep open communication throughout planning and remain responsive to their needs to ensure they feel supported every step of the way.

The awards will be in the Great Hall, the perfect grand setting for presenting those iconic Hugo rockets. The ceremony will be livestreamed, allowing fans around the world to join the celebration and share a truly Australian Worldcon moment.

Opening & Closing Ceremonies

Our Opening and Closing Ceremonies will keep all the Worldcon traditions you’d expect, bringing everyone together with the hosts and Guests of Honour to start and finish the convention, but we’re giving them a full Aussie glow‑up.

We’ll kick things off with a traditional Welcome to Country, then jump straight into fun, high‑energy moments, playful on‑stage surprises, and chances for fans to join in the action instead of just watching it. And when it’s time to wrap things up, the Closing Ceremony won’t be a quiet goodbye, expect audience‑voted highlights,  and maybe even a final cheeky Aussie challenge to send everyone out smiling.

Worldcon Masquerade Parade

The Masquerade is one of the signature highlights of any Worldcon. The moment when colour, craftsmanship, creativity, and imagination take centre stage.

We propose to take the traditional Masquerade to the next level by transforming it into a public celebration across South Bank Parklands. Masquerade entrants will parade their costumes along the South Bank Promenade, with fellow Worldcon members joined by the Brisbane public lining the route, creating a shared festival atmosphere that welcomes the wider city into the heart of Worldcon.

The celebration will culminate in South Bank Piazza, where stage presentations, skits, and performances will take place. While the judging panel deliberates, the audience will enjoy the full spectacle of the Masquerade before awards are presented in a setting designed for large‑scale celebration.

With city‑wide promotion and the vibrant energy Brisbane is known for, this event will invite the whole city to celebrate alongside us, showcasing the passion, flair, and visionary creativity of the Worldcon community

Movie Evening in the Parklands

What could be better than a summer evening under the stars, watching a classic Aussie film with the Brisbane River as your backdrop? We are once again taking the normal programming into the parklands, with an outdoor cinema, showcasing some uniquely Aussie movies.

We’re transforming the lush South Bank parklands into an open-air cinema experience for Worldcon. Picture this: a balmy night, the city lights shimmering on the water, and the iconic skyline framing the big screen. With the river breeze, the glow of the city, and the energy of Worldcon all around, this is the perfect way to soak up Brisbane’s relaxed vibe