Port Douglas Carnivale

Port Douglas Carnivale began in 1994 when the locals created a fiesta around a yacht race. Today, it's a magical festival held during the last 10 days of May within the seaside resort village and its surrounds. There's music, arts, sports, food, culture and all styles of entertainment giving you every reason you need to head to Port Douglas for a taste of paradise.

The Clippers Cup Yacht Regatta is still a feature, and it has been joined by popular family favourites like the Macrossan Street Parade and street party and the Four Mile Beach Fun Day. These free events draw thousands of spectators and participants each year. For gourmet travellers, there's a feast of options. The festival's program kicks off with the Sheraton Mirage Longest Lunch -- and runs through to the Seafood Extravaganza which traditionally wraps up the event's program. At its heart is the food and wine festival, Food, Wine & A Taste of Port, which is held each year outdoors under the coconut trees at Rex Smeal Park. About 2,000 people attend this popular event, which successfully combines great entertainment with the best cuisine from the region's finest eateries.

If you're adventurous by nature, Carnivale's program of sports will satisfy both players and spectators. There's a golf tournament, a triathlon, outriggers and kitesurfing, and a bullride spectacular. Arts crafts and culture are all represented with a songwriters competition, fashion awards, masquerade party, stories and songs around the campfire beachside, art and craft exhibitions and free and ticketed concerts at various venues around Port Douglas. Finally, Port Douglas Carnivale showcases the beauty of the region, using heritage listed venues like the Sugar Wharf contrasted with the waterfront parks, spectacular Four Mile Beach, and the waterfront marina. It attracts over 20,000 visitors during the event, with the vibrant mix of tourists and visitors really making the region shine at its very best.

Category:

Travel & Events

Tags:

• Queensland
• tourism
• boats
• australia
• port douglas
• festival