2025 Music by the River (feat. Canberra Symphony Orchestra & Mig Ayesa)

There is something truly magical about live music by the water’s edge. Whether it’s the fresh open air, the stillness of the river, or the ebb and flow of a musician’s melodies, we always find ourselves enchanted by the sights and sounds. This is the magic of Music by the River featuring the Canberra Symphony Orchestra.

Proudly presented by Icon Water and Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council, Music by the River is now in its ninth year. This signature event continues to attract music lovers from across the region. Join us for a very special program dedicated to DISCO's greatest hits featuring guest vocalist Mig Ayesa accompanied by conductor George Ellis. Held in Queen Elizabeth II Park on the banks of the Queanbeyan River, this is an event the whole family will enjoy.

The event site will feel a little different this year, the entire site will be fenced and each person will need a ticket to be scanned upon entry. You will need to bring your ticket with you on the night - either printed or electronically. If you book a seat in the amphitheatre please bring a cushion to sit on, the seating will be allocated, and you will be escorted to your seat by an usher.

Please note that due to the size of the stage, it may not face the amphitheatre directly. It may be tilted slightly, which may impact your front facing view. You will still enjoy a great view and an incredible night of music by the river.

There will be signage throughout the site, indicating where to access toilets, food and walkways. The main path through the park will be closed for pedestrian access but will be open to disabled patrons.

Members of the public are welcome to start their night from 4pm with entertainment from a local DJ with Boom Box 2 U, who will lead into the main event starting from 7pm.

Allocated seating will be numbered by row and you should select your seats as required, food will be available for purchase, or bring a picnic and enjoy a night of disco music!

FAQs

What are the differences between allocated seating and free areas?

If you register for FREE entry we ask that you bring a chair to sit on or a picnic rug. General admission is available anywhere in the park (excluding the allocated amphitheatre seating) or on the grass banks on both sides of the river.

Allocated/ticketed seating

Allocated seating space within the Queen Elizabeth II Park’s amphitheatre is seated as a first in basis so get in early to get your favoured space.

This area is not suitable for people with:

• Wheelchairs or walkers. An area will be reserved for people in wheelchairs on a first come, first served basis. Please make sure you select the appropriate ticket for this area.

• Large coolers or picnic blankets. Best to grab a spot on the lawn for large groups.

The seats are on the concrete part of the amphitheatre so we encourage everyone to bring a cushion or a picnic rug to sit on in case of weather that is a little colder than normal.

General Admission (both sides of the river)

Guests are welcome to seat themselves on the grassed riverbank with a picnic blanket or lowered seating. This seating is FREE but you will need to register - bring as many people as you like. You are welcome to sit on the grass banks near Ray Morton Park or Queen Elizabeth II Park.

Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter the event?

This event is open to all ages and lovers of music. There is a licenced area which will require ID.

What are my transportation/parking options for getting to and from the event?

Free parking is available at Riverside Plaza, Kmart, or Collett St car-park (behind the bus interchange). Bike racks are available on site and Queen Elizabeth II Park is connected to the Queanbeyan Riverwalk footpath network. Morisset Street will have a road closure in place from Collett Street to Carinya Street so please avoid this closure where possible to help the flow of traffic.

What can I bring into the event?

For dinner, you are invited to bring your own picnic or you can experience local gourmet street food - beer and wine also available. Open alcohol containers will NOT be allowed outside of the event site at any time.

Depending on when you arrive at Queen Elizabeth II Park you will be out in the elements. Please bring those things that will make you most comfortable throughout the concert, including an umbrella just in case.

What is the wet weather plan?

The weather is always an important factor when planning events in our region. As with any outdoor event, preparation is the key to comfort. In the unlikely event that the Music by the River is postponed or cancelled due to bad weather you will be informed through Eventbrite via email or by Council’s website and Facebook page (www.qprc.nsw.gov.au).

Can I bring my pet?

Whist we love your pets, we would appreciate if you don't bring them long to this event. Pets are not permitted and space is limited.

How can I contact the organiser with any questions?

If you have any additional questions please contact events@qprc.nsw.gov.au

You can also stay up to date by following the Music by the River event on Council's Facebook page.