Plenty of free family fun at Port Douglas Carnivale
Food stalls, bars and live music are a feature of Savour TNQ, a new addition to the Port Douglas Carnivale, set for 24 to 26 May. Check out what else is new.
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The 30th annual Port Douglas Carnivale is set to dazzle next weekend with a program featuring plenty of family-friendly fun and live entertainment.
The Carnivale will kick off with a spectacular street parade on May 24, ahead of a packed program on May 25 and 26.
New events include the food stall-style Savour TNQ, showcasing the region’s flavours over two days at the Marina, and Paradise Picnic on Sunday afternoon.
Both Savour TNQ and Paradise Picnic are free to attend.
Douglas Shire Council Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said the longstanding event had an action-packed program that promising something for everyone.
“For three decades, Carnivale has united our community in a celebration of culture, creativity and camaraderie.
“As we mark this significant anniversary, we reflect on the memories and exciting moments that have defined Carnivale over the years, while looking forward to creating new ones.”
Senator for Queensland, Nita Green said Port Douglas Carnivale was a significant event on Tropical North Queensland’s calendar and served to support its ongoing recovery.
“It is really great to see Douglas Shire Council put on Port Douglas Carnivale bigger and better than ever following the devastating impact of ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper and the severe rainfall and floods,” Senator Green said.
“This is an important event that not only supports economic activity and creates jobs by attracting regional and interstate travellers to the area, but provides a focus for residents to come together and celebrate – an essential aspect of community recovery following a disaster of this magnitude.”
WEEKEND HIGHLIGHTS:
Saturday May 25
The Pooch Party, Jalunbu Park, Corner Mowbray St and Garrick St, 10am to 2pm
The most Pooch-tastic day of the year has treats, entertainment and prizes in categories including best dressed dog, naughtiest dog – tails of destruction, best dog trick, dog with the waggiest tail, owner/dog lookalike and Douglas Shire’s top dog.
There’s fun for all the family with facepainting, balloon animals and more, so get your furry friends together and join in the fun.
The event supports the newly-opened Paws and Claws Animal Shelter.
The Tin Shed’s Family Beach Day, Four Mile Beach – 9am – 3pm
Grab your family and friends and head to the Tin Shed’s Family Beach Day for a full day of fun and frolic by the sea.
It’s all about the fun of the beach and the stunning surrounds of the magnificent 4 mile beach.
Get creative and enter our Sand Sculpting Competition as a family and have fun while competing for a host of amazing prizes. Join in the fun of beach activities, dancing, music fun and colour.
Be amazed by the stunning giant kites proudly displayed by Kites Queensland – these monsters of the sky have to be seen to be believed.
Savour TNQ, noon to 8.45pm Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina
Embark on a culinary adventure at Savour TNQ, a two-day celebration showcasing the vibrant flavours of Tropical North Queensland.
From street-food delights infused with native ingredients to delicious cocktails, Savour TNQ offers the chance to experience the region’s fabulous food.
Immerse yourself in a festival vibe with food stalls, bars and live music stage, creating the perfect atmosphere for connoisseurs of good food and drink.
Enjoy family-friendly entertainment and embrace unique flavours presented by passionate professionals in a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere.
Queensland Symphony Orchestra – Symphony Under The Stars, Rex Smeal Park – 7.30pm to 8.45pm
The Queensland Symphony Orchestra will present a world premiere performance of the Composition for the reef, by acclaimed composer Paul Dean, at Rex Smeal Park, on the shores of the Coral Sea with a backdrop of Mossman Gorge.
Sunday May 26
The Paradise Picnic, Rex Smeal Park, 1pm – 8pm
Get ready to be entertained by Australia’s leading female country singer, Amber Lawrence, at Paradise Picnic. With six Golden Guitar Awards, including the prestigious Female Artist of the Year in 2023, Amber is set to light up the stage with her energetic performance.
The program features local acts including Stu Harcourt, Whiskey Boat, Koalition, Al Boulton Band, Lady Valiant and the Rob Longstaff Band.
Keep the little ones entertained with Kids Disco sessions throughout the afternoon.
Be sure to participate in the Best Dressed Picnic Area competition and enjoy roving entertainment throughout the afternoon.
The Douglas Dash, Four Mile Beach Park, Corner Barrier St and Reef St, southern end of Four Mile Beach, 8am
A pure distance trail run, the Douglas Dash has a new course that encapsulates all the magical beauty of the region. Starting at the Southern end of Four Mile Beach for the first 4km then hitting the 1.5 km gut-busting cross country terrain of the Flagstaff Trail and finishing at the stunning Rex Smeal Park, this is a signature challenge like no other.
Italian Feast – A Long Table Dinner Under the Stars, Sheraton Resort – 5.30pm to 9pm
Indulge in a delectable dinner and wine package while immersing yourself in live Italian opera by Adrian Strooper, North Queensland’s esteemed international tenor.
Executive Chef Belinda Tuckwell has more than 25 years of experience around the world including resorts, upscale restaurants and the Sydney Opera House. Her menu for this special Italian Feast Under the Stars evokes the spirit the original sugar cane farmers that settled in the region from Italy over a century ago.
Dinner will be accompanied by performances from renowned Australian Opera singer Adrian Strooper.
Visit www.carnivale.com.au for more information.
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