Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers

Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers

Who could have possibly predicted that this simple celebration of nature, in the year 1949, could turn into one of the most highly anticipated events in the Queensland yearly calendar?

Created by the Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce (of all places), this event was initiated as a way to celebrate, and take advantage of the city’s nickname—the Garden City—as a way to raise morale after the devastating second world war.

Although it was a relatively new idea, the first ever Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, held in the year 1950, was made up of a procession that stretched to just a few metres shy of 5 kilometers, and had an audience of about 50,000 people.

The carnival has since grown year upon year, and it now attracts tourists both domestic, and international.

More than just flowers…

If you are looking for an entertaining way to spend the day, or week (depending on how much time you’d like to spend) with your family, or enjoy some delicious regional food, with some good friends—or to make great new ones, as you experience the local culture, craftsmanship, classic cars, and of course local wine—then you can definitely believe that there are some events that you simply must add to your itinerary.

Grand Central Floral Parade

A floral parade and carnival would be nothing without the blossoms themselves, and no matter where you ask, if you want to know the biggest, and best of these Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers events, then you need not look any further than the Grand Central Floral Parade!

This awe inspiring display of individual creativity, team work, and club enthusiasm atop a mobile float is the single most memorable hour that you will experience, if you choose to only experience one thing.

Family Fun on a Rug in the Great Outdoors

From the wonderful—and free—family events like the Sideshow Alley that has been tailor made so that the kids can have a great time even when hanging out with Mum and Dad. To the memorable face painting, and tiny animal petting of Kids’ Day Out.

 From comedy, to acrobatics, and their famous show bags—you can even stand a chance to win some cute “made for TV” prizes at the amusement stalls.

At the end of the craziness, you can enjoy a Dagwood dog with the kids on your rug with a movie playing for your entertainment, before watching the fireworks as they envelop the night sky at the end of the evening...

Fine Art, Gardens, and Fine Wine

As the festive week progresses, you will have plenty of opportunities to watch local craftsmen in the CBD setting up pop-up studios, and showing you exactly how each work of art that you find yourself fawning over is made. This unique event is called Creative Tanks and the city’s finest artists are given the opportunity to participate.

If you have ever wondered what it would be like to wash down farm to plate food with a specially selected local wine, then the Ergon Energy Food And Wine Festival will be like a dream come true, although a little pricey, for your time you receive cooking demonstrations, and of course sample the finest regional wines!