Float registrations for Carnivale Street Parade closing soon!

BUSINESS FEATURE

Lisa Keller

Feature Writer

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The Port Douglas Carnivale Macrossan Street Parade has been a much-loved event opener since 1995. Image Credit: Douglas Shire Council

Have you ever stood in the crowd and witnessed the dazzling floats of the Port Douglas Carnivale Street Parade and thought you’d like to be a part of it? Well, why not take the leap and enter the opening event for the party that stops a region?

Celebrating its 30th anniversary, this year’s Port Douglas Carnivale promises to be an unforgettable experience and there’s still time to grab your co-workers or community group and join in the fun. 

Float entries are still open and aside from a good time and a lot of laughs, there’s also some cash prizes to be won! And while the Street Parade is all about having fun, it’s also a chance for local businesses, schools and groups to get their name in front of a large audience, with some even using the event to announce new services or experiences.

Introduced to the Carnivale program in 1995, the Macrossan Street Party has been an integral part of the weekend ever since, allowing people of the local community to showcase their passion for the region by dancing and singing their way down Port Douglas’ iconic main  street. 

Douglas Shire Mayor, Lisa Scommazon, said the Street Parade holds immense significance.

“The Street Parade symbolises the vibrant spirit and unity of the Douglas Shire directly from those who live and breathe it,” she said. “It’s a celebration of our rich history, cultural diversity and shared experiences, bringing together residents and visitors in what is always a much-loved event.”

The theme for the Street Parade changes each year, guiding the design of the floats and performances. In the past themes have included Reef and Rainforest, Heavenly Bodies, and Masquerade & Mystery with 2023 offering a brilliant display with Tropical Wonderland.

The theme this year is a testament to years past with Classic Carnivale inviting participants to relive their favourite moments from the event over the last 30 years.

Cr Michael Joseph Rees, a long-term business owner himself, said the event is important for local proprietors to be a part of. “It signals the start of the high season for business owners. Many visitors will join us specifically for the event, even just for the weekend, and when they see all that we have to offer they book their return for a longer stay,” 

Cr Rees continues, “Carnivale is also very much a local event that brings the community together. It’s our own celebration of the Douglas Shire. Visitors see our joy and pride and want to return and be a part of it.”

If you want to be a part of it too, act now! Float applications close on Friday May 10th. Find out more by visiting https://www.carnivale.com.au/street-parade-float-registration/