Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers is typically held in September, through to early October each year throughout Toowoomba, Queensland. The main festivities usually occur on our four floral-filled weekend! Events are held at bunches of locations all around Toowoomba.

Carnival began in 1949 as a way to boost the local economy after World War II. It has since grown to become Australia's longest-running annual horticultural event!

Yes! Carnival offers activities for all ages, from garden tours and flower displays to family-friendly entertainment, foodie moments, and live music.

Entry to our feature floral display in the public parks is FREE! Certain signature events, tours, and private garden entry require tickets. You’ll find bunches of information here on our website for current ticket information.

Tickets for events organised by Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers can be purchased online through our official website. We recommend booking early for popular events as they often sell out. Some community organised events may require bookings, or payment on entry. Check the event listings for information specific to each event.

Our feature floral parks are our biggest attraction, with good reason! Be sure to check our Queens Park Botanic Gardens, and Laurel Bank Park. Grand Central Floral Parade is our most colourful and exciting day of the year, loved by young and old.

To fully enjoy Carnival, we recommend 2-3 days. This allows time to explore the various gardens, attend events, and experience the food and entertainment options. If you only have time for a day trip, that’s ok! You’ll be surprised how much you can pack into a blooming great day out.

Parking is available at our feature floral parks. Bringing your own car gives you the best flexibility to visit a number of parks, gardens and events during Carnival.

There sure are!

Toowoomba offers a range of accommodation options including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, caravan parks, and serviced apartments. We recommend booking well in advance as accommodation fills quickly during the Carnival period.

Most major venues and gardens are accessible for guests with mobility issues. Some private gardens and public parks may have limited accessibility due to terrain. You can find out more about accessibility at Carnival here.

Yes, assistance animals are welcome at all Carnival venues.

Leashed dogs are very welcome in most of our public parks, including our feature floral displays at Queens Park Botanic Gardens and Laurel Bank Park. Note that dogs are not permitted at Boyce Gardens, or Spring Bluff Railway Station. Dogs on leash are welcome to watch the Grand Central Floral Parade with you, however be aware that this can be a loud event! While assistance animals are welcome throughout Carnival, pet dogs are generally not permitted at ticketed events

Toowoomba has many beautiful dog-friendly parks where you can enjoy walks with your pet, and we’ve curated some pet-friendly itineraries for your visit.

September in Toowoomba is typically sunny and warm, but can turn cool at night. Of course, we can have rainy or cold days – dressing in layers is recommended, and always bring a jacket just in case!

We recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water bottle, a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings, and a camera to capture the beautiful displays.

Food trucks will be operating in Queens Park Botanic Gardens and Laurel Bank Park during Carnival. The city centre offers plenty of cafes, pubs and fine dining.

You're welcome to bring picnics to enjoy in the public parks. However, some ticketed events may have restrictions on bringing outside food and drinks.

If you want some insider tips and tricks, chat to the gardeners at Queens Park Botanic Gardens and Laurel Bank Park. Both parks will have garden info stands operating on select dates throughout Carnival. For something different, join a Twilight Tour of Laurel Bank Park, hosted by a Toowoomba Regional Council gardener. Bookings are essential.

Absolutely! Our Grand Central Floral Parade is a big hit with children, and there are many community events in our program suitable for kids.

Photography for personal use is encouraged throughout Carnival, just be careful not to stand on plants or in gardens in your efforts to get the perfect shot.

Share your Carnival experience using #TCOF on social media platforms. Don’t forget to @ mention us – we might even share your post!

You’re welcome to contact the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers team at info@tcof.com.au or by calling (07) 4688 6661 during business hours.

The Toowoomba Visitor Information Centre is located at 82-86 James St, Toowoomba. You can also contact the Info Centre on free call 1800 331 155 or infocentre@tr.qld.gov.au. During Carnival, we also operate Carnival Info Hubs at Queens Park Botanic Gardens and Laurel Bank Park. Stop by to grab your official program (with a map!), local advice and souvenirs.