Carnival launches 2017 program
THIS year’s Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers will be a breathtaking display of flowers, flavours and sounds.
Now in its 68th year, it is the longest running horticultural event of its kind and recently won the Australian Tourism gold award for major festival or event.
The carnival’s program was announced yesterday at the launch held at Preston Peak Winery.
It unveiled a program of headliners across music, food, wine, floral art and gardening that is testament to its position as the country’s most acclaimed special event.
This year’s event will be held from Friday, September 15 to Sunday, September 24.
This year special guests at the Ergon Energy Food and Wine Festival include ABC Gardening Australia’s Sophie Thompson and to celebrate the finest regional produce, Australian chef Anna Gare.
Australian music royalty is set to perform over three days at the Heritage Bank Live Concert.
Acts include Daryl Braithwaite, The Angels, Temper Trap, Paper Kites, Boys in the Band, The Diamonds, Voices and X Factor’s Isaiah Firebrace.
The Grand Central Floral Parade will bring the city to
a standstill when more than 100,000 people line the streets.
The Chronicle Garden Competition is also a carnival highlight, with many residents entering the competition, showing off their stunning gardens.
Toowoomba Regional Council mayor Paul Antonio said the carnival was a standout event on the Australian calendar.
“With 68 years of floral magic under its belt, the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers is one of our richest
traditions,” he said.
“This year’s floral program once again is testament to our bold ambition for this event, promising breathtaking displays of botanic brilliance across floral exhibits, fresh flower markets, glorious garden tours and more.”
The QantasLink Gala Dinner is set to sparkle at Laurel Bank Park on the eve of the carnival, kicking off the celebrations.
There are also garden tours, high teas, picnics and music in the parks and two nights of pop-up cinemas in Laurel Bank Park where The Lion King and Trolls will be screened.
This year the city’s parks and gardens will take centre stage in a program Of Hosted Tours And visits. The talking pubs tours will return along with the food and wine tours.
The Hidden Laneways Tour to the Darker Side Tour will also explore the region.