23 April 2026
Each spring, Toowoomba bursts into bloom as the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers returns, offering a bold, flavour-led celebration of colour and creativity.
Running from 18 September to 5 October 2026, the 77th annual festivities will feature more than 80 events and experiences, transforming the region into Australia’s most immersive celebration of flowers, food and community.
This year’s program introduces exciting new additions alongside much-loved favourites, with a strong focus on food experiences, family friendly events and vibrant floral displays.
A major highlight of the 2026 program is the return of FEASTival across 26–27 September, featuring an exciting line up of three renowned Australian chefs, including Nornie Bero, Simon Toohey, and Dominique Rizzo.
Set across two indulgent days, FEASTival will bring together live cooking demonstrations, local produce, food experiences, music and artisan markets, cementing its place as one of the Carnival’s most anticipated events.
The 2026 program expands the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers experience across all three weekends of the Spring school holidays:
● Grand Central Floral Parade (19 September): celebrating its 77th year with the theme Spring Adventures
● FEASTival (26–27 September): a weekend dedicated to food, flavour and fun
● Weekend Table (2–5 October): a series of curated dining experiences across stunning regional venues
● Paw Parade (4 October): a family favourite with thousands of spectators and four-legged participants
A standout addition this year is Sideshow Alley, running for an extended 10 days, offering classic carnival rides, games and entertainment for all ages.
At the heart of Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers are the region’s iconic parks, with Laurel Bank Park and Queens Park Botanic Gardens once again transformed into breathtaking floral showcases. Visitors can explore vibrant mass displays, enjoy food trucks and entertainment, and take part in guided experiences including Behind the Blooms and Twilight Tours, offering a deeper look at the creativity and craftsmanship behind the displays.
Visitors can also enjoy unique experiences such as:
● Bubbles & Buttercream: a hands-on cake decorating workshop set in Laurel Bank Park
● Floral Friday (18 September): a colourful call to action for the community to dress up homes, workplaces and streets in floral style
● #treats: more than 50 exclusive food offers across the region
● Garden tours, twilight experiences, tasting tours and more…
Toowoomba Regional Council proudly owns this iconic event and CEO Sal Petroccitto said the 2026
event continues to evolve as a must visit event on the national calendar. “Each year, Toowoomba
Carnival of Flowers grows in scale and creativity, and in 2026 we’re proud to deliver a program that is
more immersive and experience-led than ever before,” he said.
Toowoomba Regional Council Mayor Geoff McDonald said the event plays a vital role in showcasing
the region. “Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers attracts visitors from across Australia and beyond,
supporting local businesses and highlighting everything that makes Toowoomba special, from our
gardens to our food and our community spirit.”
With strong demand expected, visitors are encouraged to buy a ticket to key events early, book your
accommodation in advance, and start planning your Carnival itinerary now!
Minister for the Environment and Tourism, Andrew Powell MP, said the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers
remained one of regional Queensland’s true stand-out attractions. “The Carnival continues to blossom
as a celebration of local pride, while also delivering strong returns for the visitor economy, with the
2025 event generating more than $31.3 million for the state,” Minister Powell said.
“With an expanded 2026 program, the Carnival is well and truly planted for future success, highlighting
why the Crisafulli Government’s ongoing support for Queensland’s major events is so important to help
them grow and deliver lasting benefits for communities and visitors alike.”
Tickets for featured events, including FEASTival and Weekend Table, are limited and expected to sell
out.
The full program is now available at tcof.com.au.
The 2026 Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers is proudly supported by returning and new partners,
including Tourism & Events Queensland, Grand Central Shopping Centre and Peter Roberts Cars,
whose continued investment plays a vital role in bringing the event to life.
These partnerships help elevate the visitor experience while supporting the Carnival’s growth as one of
Queensland’s premier tourism events, reinforcing its ability to deliver world class programming and
meaningful economic impact for the region.
ENDS
Media friends please contact Liquidity Marketing, Lisa Grant on 0421 075 703 or lisa@liquiditymarketing.com.au for all media and interview enquiries relating to Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers.
