2 July 2026
The table is officially set for one of the most sought-after experiences of Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers; Weekend Table is returning in 2026 with an exciting line-up of immersive dining moments across some of the region’s most spectacular venues.
Running across the final long weekend of Carnival from 2 to 5 October, Weekend Table transforms the Toowoomba Region into a series of unforgettable shared dining experiences, from vineyard dinners and heritage rail dining to country pub lunches and floral cake workshops.
With intimate seatings, set in breathtaking locations, and curated menus all featuring a special floral flourish, Weekend Table has quickly become a signature experience of the Carnival program, giving visitors the opportunity to slow down, connect and savour the best of the region.
Toowoomba Regional Council Tourism portfolio spokesperson Councillor James O’Shea said Weekend Table continues to evolve as one of the Carnival’s most exciting and experience-led offerings. “Weekend Table is all about bringing people together around incredible local produce, beautiful regional venues and memorable shared experiences,” Cr O’Shea said.
“What makes it so special is the diversity. One moment you’re dining in a century-old country pub, the next you’re enjoying a sunset amongst the vines or sitting inside a beautifully restored heritage train carriage.”
Returning for 2026 are several crowd favourites from last year’s highly successful program, alongside exciting new additions and elevated experiences.
Among the standout newcomers is Weekend Table at DownsSteam, where guests will enjoy floral arranging before settling into a three-course dining experience aboard the beautifully restored Lady MacGregor railway carriage, complete with paired wines from Stanthorpe’s Heritage Estate.
Chair of DownsSteam, Ros Scotney, said Weekend Table creates an opportunity to showcase regional experiences in a completely unexpected way. “Dining inside a beautifully restored heritage railway carriage is something people simply don’t experience every day,” she said.
“Combining that with incredible local produce, wine and floral creativity makes for a really memorable experience.”
Meanwhile, Aberfeldy Barn makes a spectacular debut with a six-course shared dining experience under the stars, paired with award-winning Ballandean Estate Wines and set amongst the rolling countryside of the Darling Downs.
Cass Daniels from Aberfeldy Barn said the Weekend Table program perfectly aligns with the growing demand for immersive regional experiences. “People are looking for experiences that feel personal, beautiful and memorable and that’s exactly what we will deliver this year as part of Weekend Table,” she said.
“To be able to welcome guests onto the property for an evening of mouth-watering food, wine and connection under the stars is something we’re really excited to be part of.”
For those craving country hospitality, Bull & Barley Inn in Cambooya offers a relaxed long lunch celebrating local producers and Rusty Mill Distillery whiskies, while Rosalie House returns to invite guests to settle amongst the vines for a Mediterranean-inspired grazing dinner at sunset.
Sue Haughey from Bull & Barley Inn said the event celebrates the warmth and authenticity regional Queensland is known for. “There’s something really special about gathering around a table in a country pub and sharing local food, local stories and local spirits,” she said.
One of the most intimate experiences on offer this year is the new Relish Café grazing workshop, where 10 guests will learn the art of creating beautifully styled grazing boxes using produce sourced from regional suppliers.
Flowers aren’t the only thing blooming this Carnival, with the debut of Bubbles & Buttercream set to add a sweet new layer to the Weekend Table program. Guests will sip French Champagne while learning the art of floral cake decorating in the picturesque surrounds of Laurel Bank Park, creating edible masterpieces almost too pretty to eat. Equal parts creative workshop and indulgent celebration, the experience is tipped to become one of this year’s breakout events.
Special Guest Host for Bubbles & Buttercream, Renee Jarrett from Daisy Cakes and Bakes, said the new experience brings together creativity, connection and Carnival spirit in a completely unique way. “There’s something simply joyful about flowers, Champagne and cake decorating all coming together in one experience,” she said.
“We wanted to create something playful, creative and beautifully immersive, where guests can relax, learn new skills and leave with something they’re genuinely proud of. It’s the kind of experience people will book with friends, mums, sisters or partners and talk about long after Carnival is over.”
Beyond Weekend Table, the broader Tasting Tours program also returns in 2026, including:
● Sip & Stroll cocktail experiences through the city
● Cork & Walk hosted wine tours
● Pint Pursuit pub adventures, where drinks of all kinds are on the menu!
Cr O’Shea said demand for the program continues to grow year-on-year. “These experiences sell because they’re genuinely unique. Weekend Table gives visitors access to places, people and flavours they may never otherwise discover,” he said.
“It’s a celebration of our region’s hospitality, creativity and community spirit — and there’s truly nothing else like it during Carnival season.”
Owners and operators across the region say the program continues to showcase the best of local hospitality, storytelling and regional charm.
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers runs from 18 September to 5 October 2026.
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers is supported by the Queensland Government, via Tourism and Events Queensland.
For tickets and full program details, visit tcof.com.au.
ENDS
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