Heatwave festival is almost here - and we’ve got tickets to give away
INCLUSIVE CELEBRATION
The countdown is officially on.
Heatwave, Port Douglas’s newest LGBTQIA+ festival, is set to take over the town from February 13-15, bringing three days of music, drag, parties and summer celebration across multiple local venues.
With a stacked program of DJs, performers and headline events, Heatwave is shaping up to be one of the biggest weekends of the season and organisers say the buzz is building fast.
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Festival founder and event director Andrew Dalbertanson said the team is excited to see the community gearing up for the event.
“People have been asking for something like this in Port Douglas for a long time,” he said.
“Now that we’re only days away, you can really feel the momentum.
“It’s going to be a huge weekend for locals and visitors.”
Dalbertanson said the festival is designed to bring colour, energy and inclusivity to the region at a time of year that is traditionally quieter for tourism.
“We want Heatwave to be a celebration of everyone - locals, visitors, the whole community,” he said.
“It’s about creating something fun and welcoming while giving local businesses a boost.”
He also encouraged Douglas residents to become involved.
“We’ve had amazing support from interstate, but I’d love to see more locals jump in.
“This is your backyard, come and enjoy it.
“Grab a ticket, bring your friends, make a weekend of it.”
The lineup brings a powerhouse mix of international DJs, iconic drag talent and big‑energy parties, transforming Port Douglas into a vibrant summer playground.
This year’s headliners feature global favourites Dan Murphy, Hayley Maree and Kate Monroe behind the decks, joined by Australian drag legends Penny Tration and Coco Jumbo - serving glamour, attitude and unforgettable performances across the entire weekend.
Festival weekend snapshot
Friday February 13
NEON NIGHTS – Sugar Wharf
The festival kicks off with an open‑air glow‑up: bright lights, bold beats and a waterfront dancefloor that sets the tone for three days of celebration.
Saturday February 14
SPARKLE Main Event – The Central Hotel
A Valentine’s night spectacular where drag, music and pure joy collide in a glitter‑soaked party made for dancing and self‑expression.
Sunday February 15
H2OHHH Pool Party – Oaks Port Douglas Resort
A sun‑drenched finale with DJs, cocktails and poolside vibes, the perfect way to wrap up the weekend.
Across all three days, roaming drag artists will drop into popular breakfast spots, surprising diners with spontaneous moments of camp, colour and connection. And for those wanting something indulgent, the Valentine’s Day Long Lunch at Harrisons (12–3pm) offers a luxe escape with entertainment, music and plenty of flair.
Giveaway: Win Heatwave tickets
Want to experience Heatwave? We’ve got six tickets to give away!
To enter:
- Follow Heatwave on Facebook.
- Comment on the Newsport giveaway post with who you’d bring to the event
- For a bonus entry, tell us why you’d love to be there!
Winners will be announced on February 10 on the Newsport Facebook page and in the Print edition on February 12.
