10 things to do in Toowoomba this weekend during Carnival of Flowers

It’s that time of year again, when the Garden City is in full bloom. Toowoomba is bursting with life and events around every corner, and to make the most of your weekend is a list of the top 10 things to do across the region.

CARNIVAL OF FLOWERS Summer Cullen at Laurel Bank Park

Spring has well and truly sprung in the garden city and there is almost no reason not to be outside this weekend, basking in Toowoomba’s pride and joy - our gardens.

September is always one of the busiest months of Toowoomba’s social calendar, so here is a list of the top 10 things to do this weekend, September 21 and 22.

1. Grand Central Floral Parade

A major highlight of the Carnival of Flowers, the floral parade will depart from the corner of Herries and Hume streets at 10am on Saturday, and meander through Toowoomba’s CBD to the Godsall St oval in Queens Park. This iconic event is not to be missed, but keep in mind some roads in and around the CBD will be closed. For a full list of closures, visit the Toowoomba Regional Council website.

Harry Powell of Another Harry gets the Dave and the Mudcrabs float ready for the Grand Central Floral Parade of the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, Thursday, September 19, 2024. Picture: Kevin Farmer

2. Chronicle Garden Competition

Some of Toowoomba’s greenest thumbs will be opening their gardens up to the public this weekend, on Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 5pm. The gardens are dotted across the city, and the official Chronicle Garden Competition visitor guide, including a map of where they all are, can be purchased from local supermarkets and participating newsagents.

The Chronicle Garden Competition 2024 City Grand Champion Tiffany Wicks Thursday, September 19, 2024. Picture: Kevin Farmer

3. Sideshow events at Frogs Hollow

A range of exciting sideshow events will light up Frogs Hollow in Queens Park on Saturday and Sunday night, with fire shows, magic, music, lights, and fireworks. On Saturday the action will kick off at 3.30pm, with the fireworks display scheduled for 8.30pm, and on Sunday the magic will start at 2.30pm, with fireworks set to light up the night at 7.30pm.

4. St Luke’s flower, art and music festival

For the 58th year running, St Luke’s Anglican parish will be welcoming visitors to their grounds, to appreciate their floral displays, visit their market stalls, and enjoy music. On Saturday at noon the Toowoomba Concert Band will play in the church, and on Sunday at noon the Toowoomba Philharmonic will play.

5. Carnival of Trains

It’s full steam ahead at the Toowoomba Showgrounds for model railway enthusiasts, with the Carnival of Trains. From 9am to 5pm on Saturday, and 9am to 4pm on Sunday, there will be a vibrant display of model trains for only $5 admission for adults.

6. Free tunes

Sit among the vibrant floral displays and listen to some music at one of Toowoomba’s most exceptional parks. Music will be playing on Saturday and Sunday at Laurel Bank Park and Queens Park Botanic Gardens. There will be sessions from 9.30am to 1pm and from 2pm to 5.30pm, at both parks, and there will be a twilight session at Queens Park on Saturday from 5.30pm to 8pm.

7. Carnival Queens Exhibition

For the Carnival of Flowers’ 75th year, the Toowoomba Regional Art Gallery is showcasing the original throne on which Carnival Queens perched in bygone years. The gallery will be open from 10.30am to 3.30pm on Saturday and Sunday, showcasing contemporary art as well as the history of the Carnival of Flowers.

8. Historical walking tours

If you’re looking to learn more about Toowoomba while enjoying the outdoors, go along to one of two walking tours on Sunday. From 9.30am to 11.30am on Sunday, there will be a walking tour through the Caledonian Estate, and from 2pm to 4pm on Sunday, you can explore the “dark side” of Toowoomba. Tickets can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/toowoombatrails/

9. Murphys Creek Chilli Carnival

The Murphys Creek Chilli Carnival is returning for its eighth year, and is set to be hotter than ever. The spicy event will be jam packed with music, activities and markets for chilli lovers and phobics alike. Entry to the event is a $2 donation to raise money for Rural Aid. The festival will be held at the Murphys Creek Grounds at 16 Jessie Lane from 10am to 3pm on Sunday, September 22.

10. Toowoomba Orchid Society Spring Show

For the opportunity to see some of the most exceptional orchids the Toowoomba region has to offer, join the Toowoomba Orchid Society for their Spring Show. The society is welcoming guests from 8.30am to 4pm on Saturday and Sunday to appreciate the orchids at St Pauls Church Hall on the corner of Phillip and James Streets in Toowoomba.