Celebrate spring with the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers and four weekends of flowers, food and fresh country air.
Australia’s longest-running floral festival returns for its 76th year with new events added to the lineup.
Kick things off this weekend with the Lawn Party on Saturday, September 13 at Queens Park. Soak in the petals and grab a plate of delicious local fare. After dark the garden turns into a party with a five-hour drinks package, curated food stations, and live music. Tickets are essential.
Fan favourite, the Grand Central Floral Parade rolls through town with boldly decorated floats from 10am-noon the following weekend on Saturday September 20 at Queens Park.
Dogs have been a tradition at the event since 1950 when a little Pomeranian named “Puppy” lead the Toowoomba Thistle Pipe Band in the very first Carnival Parade. The tradition continued for eight years and a statue commemorating the little fellow stands at Picnic Point (164 Tourist Rd, Toowoomba) overlooking the spectacular Lockyer Valley.
This year there will be a special Paw Parade on Sunday September 21, where dogs take centre stage and prizes will be awarded for the best flower-inspired outfit, best pet-owner lookalike, and waggiest tale. Grab a gourmet dog treat and browse the pet-friendly market stalls. General admission is free, but you do need to register to enter the parade.
The FEASTival of food and wine brings local flavours and celebrity chefs together in a family friendly culinary adventure. Catch cooking demonstrations, tastings from local artisanal food and wine, live music, kids’ workshops. From Saturday September 27-28 Queens Park. For tickets click here.
To close, the long weekend from October 3-6 brings brunches, high-teas and dinners with 12 unique events, including lakeside yoga and breakfast at Reflections Lake Cooby, and dining under the stars with five courses and live music at the Vintage Cow Cafe.
