Almost half the attractions at this arts festival are free - and to begin experiencing them, one need only cross a river.

Home-grown art duo Craig & Karl have transformed three Brisbane bridges with colourful inflatables for the festival launch, and that's not all.

Look up, and fighter jets and massive cargo planes roar through the air, while on the water, there's ... Clive Palmer's superyacht.

However, the yacht is not actually be part of the official Brisbane Festival program, which features more than 1000 performances and 2260 artists.

"I wanted it to reflect the incredible journey we've shared: bold ideas, heartfelt stories, and unforgettable moments, said artistic director Louise Bezzina on launching her sixth and final festival.

The opening weekend kicks off with a fireworks dis

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