Whether you’re flower-mad, a fastidious foodie, or a ferris wheel fan, the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers has it all.
Located just about 2 hours inland of Brisbane, Toowoomba is a fun escape in Queensland filled with nature, history, art, and of course, flowers. This year, the 75th annual Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers will be taking place from 13 September to 7 October. Bring your family and friends and enjoy special guest performances, a floral parade, guided tours, and much more in “The Garden City.” Opening image: A group of friends sitting in Laurel Bank Park. Image by: Tourism and Events Queensland.
Floral Events
The Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers has many attractions to give you your fix of flowers. Check out two spring shows by orchid societies in Toowoomba, where you’ll notice wonderful scents and have the chance to chat with expert growers.
If succulents are more your scene: hit up Succulent Fest where local sellers and growers will have your tough-to-find succulents on hand. And, the Toowoomba Bromeliad and Succulent Society’s sale and show will have over 200 tables worth of plants, including some of the region’s very best.
Don’t forget to see the Toowoomba East State School’s annual hanging basket competition, a floral showcase of over 400 hanging baskets created by community members and students. It’ll be a stunning sight you won’t want to miss!
Non-floral Events
If flowers just aren’t your scene, the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers and town as a whole still have a lot in store for you.
Learn lawn bowls at the Darling Downs: bring your family and friends, and enjoy a BBQ and beautiful view of the Queens Park Botanic Gardens while playing a fun game.
Or, check out the inaugural Toowoomba Carnival Bull Ride, where you’ll be sure to get your fill of entertainment. Remember your cowboy boots!
And, if you’re looking for a chill day, attend the Toowoomba Farmers Markets, where you’ll have the chance to buy directly from local artisans and farmers. Fresh fruits and vegetables, handmade soaps, and jewellery are just a few things you’ll find on hand.
Good Food, Good Drinks, Good Times
Looking to indulge in delicious food and drinks at the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers? Check out the three-day Festival of Food & Wine, with adult tickets starting at $75 for a day pass. You’ll have the chance to experience complimentary testing sessions that include fine wines, cheeses, craft beers, and spirits. Plus, don’t miss a chance to see a cooking demonstration from celebrity pastry chef Anna Polyviou.
You can also check out some of Toowoomba’s local eateries, which will have springtime specials for $10 to $20. There are multiple tours available, including the “Sip & Stroll,” where you have the chance to walk through the city and enjoy small bites along the way.
Loads of Entertainment
Enjoy featured performances from artists including Dameeela, James Reyne, Thirsty Merc, Kate Ceberano, and more at this year’s Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers.
And if you’re searching for a fun night out, the carnival is chalk-full of evening activities.
Don’t miss the chance to watch a movie under the stars on 28 September at Peacehaven Botanic Park or to see an open-air concert by the Queensland Symphony Orchestra in Toowoomba’s iconic Queens Park Amphitheatre on 4 October. For flower-lovers, there’s even a nocturnal tour of Laurel Bank where you’ll get to explore plant life in the dark with an expert.
History of Toowoomba & Other Sites to See
As one of the earliest inland settlements, established in the 1840’s, Toowoomba has plenty of historical sites and accompanying tales. The Cobb+Co Museum houses the National Carriage Collection, Australia’s finest offering of horse-drawn vehicles. Visitors will find a variety of interactive displays and exhibits on everything from space to ancient Indigenous culture. Cobb+Co also offers workshops on vintage trades and kid-friendly activities.
Call in to the Royal Bull’s Head Inn, a Heritage-listed landmark whose rusted tin roof screams of the early days of settlement. The building was established in 1847 by ex-convict William Horton. It has since been lovingly restored, much like the Empire Theatre, another Heritage-listed building in the city. Dating back to 1911, it oozes art-deco elegance, making for a unique performing arts venue.
Plus, for architecture-lovers: check out the Russell Street Historical Walk, which has grand buildings dating back to the 1860s. It is about 2.5 km long and takes about an hour to complete. You’ll see sights like old church buildings houses (and even a urinal) that were built during the 19th and 20th centuries.
Planning a trip to Toowoomba QLD
Toowoomba is just 90-minutes drive from Brisbane in the gorgeous Darling Downs region. The city has a vibrant restaurant and café scene with excellent boutique shopping and historic landmarks. You’ll find plenty of accommodation options in the city, varying in price and comfort. Keen campers should check out Reflections at Lake Cooby.
Want more to explore in Toowoomba? Read more about the garden city here.
