The Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers has thrived since its inception in 1949 and has become an iconic Queensland event.

Carnival, the idea of Essex Tait and the Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce, was founded as a method for the city to leverage its “Garden City” name to stimulate more economic activity following the rigours of WWII. The Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers began on October 21, 1950, with a three-mile-long street parade. It was a great success, led by a bullock team and witnessed by an estimated 50,000 people.

The Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers has received the Gold Award for Major Festival and Event at the Queensland Tourism Awards (2015, 2016, 2017, 2018) and the Australian Tourism Awards (2016, 2017, 2018). Furthermore, the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers was honoured with Hall of Fame status at the 2017 Queensland Tourism Awards and the 2018 Australian Tourism Awards.

Attendance at the 10-day event has increased dramatically, with 294,000 people attending in 2019. Take advantage of the opportunity to participate in this fantastic festival this year!

Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers

September 1 – 30

The Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers runs from September 1 until September 30. Throughout the month, there are several events suitable for everyone.

To mention a few, Parkland Entertainment will be available every weekend. Pack a picnic and bring the whole family to Queens Park for musical delights and games among the flower beds.

One of Toowoomba’s most incredible parks is Laurel Bank Park. The park is a must-see during Carnival, with groomed gardens, mature trees, children’s play equipment, barbeque and picnic spots, and two croquet lawns.

Twilight Tours are also available! It is your chance to learn about the darker side of plant life from specialists during a one-hour twilight tour of Laurel Bank Park. But that’s not all! The Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers also includes the following activities.

Festival of Food & Wine

September 8, 9, & 10

You can sample the world-famous produce of Southern Queensland Country for three mouth-watering days. Treat yourself to beautiful foods, produce, and wine from the region’s abundant pastures, orchards, and vineyards.

At the Festival of Food & Wine, you may enjoy the concert sounds of some of Australia’s most prominent bands and performers while savouring exquisite cuisine and wine. The musicians will be filling the Main Stage with lovely sounds!

Grand Central Floral Parade

September 16

Of course, witness the renowned Grand Central Floral Parade with the family! It is one of Toowoomba’s favourite events of the year. Street performers, carnival characters, and roving entertainment will accompany the gorgeous floral floats as they go through the city to Queens Park.

The Floral Parade begins at the intersection of Herries and Hume Streets, proceeds along Herries Street, turns right into Ruthven Street, right into Margaret Street, left onto Hume Street, and ends on Godsall Street Oval at the intersection of Hume and Godsall Streets. Take note that there are traffic closures in the Toowoomba CBD area.

Do you want quick access to the venues? Laguna Apartments Toowoomba is a great place to stay and unwind.

Laguna Serviced Apartments Toowoomba

Our self-contained and modern 4-star apartments are in the heart of Toowoomba. Laguna Serviced Apartments have all the conveniences of a home, including free WiFi, laundry facilities, full kitchens, and private balconies with fantastic city views.

Laguna Apartments is also a short walk from various cafés, restaurants, and takeaway stores. Your family can explore the food scene anytime you want. And if you want to know more about Toowoomba, visit the Empire Theatre, within walking distance of the Laguna Serviced Apartments Toowoomba.

During Toowoomba’s most blooming season, they give a special series during the celebration. Explore the architectural splendour of the magnificent Empire Theatre on their 90-minute tour. Behind the scenes, you’ll see art deco and contemporary architecture, as well as the tricks of the trade that keep the country’s largest performing arts theatre running.

Are you ready to go exploring and celebrating? Plan your journey to Toowoomba and reserve a room now!