Savannah Sounds Festival to join Port Douglas Carnivale program

One of Far North Queensland’s most popular music festivals is bringing a three-day event to the acclaimed Port Douglas Carnivale, pumping millions into the economy.

The Savannah Sounds Festival will occur alongside the iconic Carnivale Street Parade. Picture: Supplied

One of Far North Queensland’s most popular music festivals is bringing a three-day event to the acclaimed Port Douglas Carnivale, pumping millions into the economy.

The Savannah Sounds Port Douglas program will begin on Friday with a party, followed by a headline music event on Saturday and family day on Sunday.

Douglas Shire Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said the May event would be a significant drawcard for the region.

Crowds at the 2024 Savannah in the Round Festival. Picture: Supplied

“We know the success of Savannah in the Round, the quality of what they do and the acts they attract is a great fit for Carnivale and the future of event tourism in the region,” Ms Scomazzon said.

Savannah in the Round Festival is an annual camping festival held at the Mareeba Rodeo Arena. In 2024, the festival welcomed more than 9700 individual visitors. “Savannah in the Round has proven to be a major economic driver, generating over $9.4 million in direct and incremental expenditure for Queensland in 2024,” Ms Scomazzon said.

“With the introduction of Savannah Sounds, Port Douglas Carnivale is set to benefit from the same high-quality music experience that draws visitors and boosts local economies.”

The program begins with a party on Friday May 23 and will be held at Rex Smeal Park.

Mark Olsen, chief executive officer of Tourism Tropical North Queensland, said Savannah Sounds Port Douglas would provide another reason for interstate visitors to come to the area in May.

“This nationally visible event will reinforce the region’s back in business messaging to bring visitors to Port Douglas during the shoulder season when they can experience the festivities of Port Douglas Carnivale,” Mr Olsen said.

Port Douglas Carnivale Family Beach Day. Picture: Supplied

The program adds to Port Douglas Carnivale’s already jam-packed schedule over the weekend of May 23-25.

The iconic Street Parade returns with a ‘Tropical Treasures’ theme, alongside a variety of street food, amusement rides and fireworks.

Other Carnivale events will include Family Beach Day and the Douglas Dash run, plus the recently announced Maho Magic Bar.

The Go Troppo visual art exhibition will also begin on Tuesday, 20 May and continue throughout Carnivale weekend. Taking place at the Sugar Wharf, the exhibition will showcase some of FNQ’s best artists’ work and will include a pop-up market, giving visitors the chance to meet the artists and purchase their work.

In 2024, Port Douglas Carnivale generated more than $5m for the Douglas Shire.

Tickets and information are available at carnivale.com.au/

Originally published as Savannah Sounds Festival to join Port Douglas Carnivale program