Exciting new events announced for Carnivale’s 30th anniversary

BUSINESS FEATURE

Lisa Keller

Feature Writer

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New event, Paradise Picnic, will take over Rex Smeal Park this Carnivale weekend. Image credit: Port Douglas Carnivale

The Douglas Shire has been counting down the days and finally, the 30th edition  Port Douglas Carnivale is set to kick off this week. The much loved event turns our small town into a bustling hub of entertainment, culture, and gourmet experiences with this year seeing some returning favourites to the program as well as some new and exciting events.

Events in this year’s program have been specifically designed to enhance Carnivale’s already glowing reputation through a more diverse and accessible range of events. While crowd favourites such as Tin Shed Family Beach Day, Macrossan Street Parade and The Spiegeltent will once again return with a bang, it’s the addition of some exciting new experiences that have people talking.

Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina will become a foodies paradise on May 25-26 as newcomer Savour TNQ takes over the picturesque location. This two-day culinary extravaganza will see the best food stalls from our region gather together giving visitors the opportunity to taste the vibrant flavours of Tropical North Queensland. Expect street-food style dishes made with local, native ingredients against a backdrop of live music and entertainment - not a bad way to spend a Saturday or Sunday. 

The Saturday night of Carnivale weekend is always one to remember and this year will be no different. The Pullman Sea Temple Resort is hosting its own new event in Temple of Fire. Sip cocktails poolside as you witness an incredible light show and dance the night away in one of the most iconic spots in Port. Alternatively, head to Rex Smeal Park for a once in a lifetime show with Queensland Symphony Orchestra playing under the stars in a one night only world premiere show. This special event is a true celebration of our wonderful region with a special musical composition created specifically for our beautiful reef.

Rex Smeal Park will then transform into the region’s biggest music stage for the inaugural Paradise Picnic on Sunday May 25th. If parking up next to the Coral Sea with your family and friends while listening to some of Australia’s best musicians sounds like a fun day out to you, then you will not want to miss this. Led by Australia’s favourite female country singer, Amber Lawrence, you’ll enjoy a full day of live music with sets by local favourites Lady Valiant, Stu Harcourt and Whiskey Boat, just to name a few. 

Bring along your picnic rug, nibbles and drinks for the perfect round out to what is shaping up to be the celebration of a century for Carnivale’s 30th anniversary. Plus, it’s completely free! 

As the Carnivale celebrates three decades of cultural vibrancy, these new events, along with the beloved traditional festivities, ensure the 2024 Port Douglas Carnivale will be a landmark celebration not to be missed. For more details and ticketing information, visit the official Port Douglas Carnivale website.

Port Douglas will be transformed into a visual spectacle as people “party in paradise” to celebrate the event's 30th anniversary. Image credit: Port Douglas Carnivale