Thousands here for carnival
THE 68th Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers has begun with more than 100,000 people making their way to the Garden City for the annual event.
This year’s carnival takes place from September 15 to 24 with more than 50 events celebrating colour, flavours and music.
The festival opened on Thursday with a sold out four-course gala dinner at Laurel Bank Park.
The Ergon Energy Food and Wine Festival has taken over Queens Park, showcasing the region’s best wineries, supported by a range of the region’s chefs and produce.
The festival is a carnival highlight as residents and visitors sit under the stars and listen to internationally acclaimed musicians while sampling mouth-watering food.
There are about 30 food stalls and 20 cellar doors, all offering a range of tasty treats.
Toowoomba Regional Council tourism and events portfolio leader Councillor Geoff McDonald said it was fantastic to see so many people already visiting our city’s parks and gardens.
“It’s carnival time, and just to see the amount of locals and visitors already in parks is extraordinary,” he said.
“There is so much to see and do around Toowoomba, catering for all ages and levels of excitement.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if we have sell-outs at the Ergon Energy Food and Wine Festival, especially Saturday, but then there is also a whole lot of talk about Daryl Braithwaite on Sunday.”
He encouraged people to pre-order tickets to avoid the disappointment of them selling out early.
The Grand Central Floral Parade is not to be missed at 3pm today with incredible floats to be seen by more
than 100,000 people.
The parade route runs from Herries St, along Ruthven St, Chalk Dr, Hume St and ends on the Godsall St oval where the floats will
be on display for closer viewing.
There will also be free entertainment at side show alley, at lower Queens Park, until Sunday with rides,
food, show bags and fireworks displays at night.
Also don’t forget to check out The Chronicle Garden Competition winners.
An interactive map of all
entrants is available online, as well as four driving maps including loops for Queens Park, Laurel Bank Park, Picnic Point and Spring Bluff and Highfields.