Entertainment
11 May, 2025
Carnivale program launched
PORT Douglas Carnivale 2025's program has been officially launched.
The new programs are hot off the press and the countdown is on to one of Port Douglas’ most anticipated annual events.
Running from May 16 to 25, Port Douglas Carnivale will feature 10 days of festival fun culminating in a full weekend of celebrations from May 23-25.
New highlights for 2025 include Savannah Sounds, a three-day music festival at Rex Smeal Park presented by Douglas Shire Council, along with Maho Magic Bar, Sea Circus Treasured Tales, the Oaks Carnivale Fiesta poolside party, and Makers Tropic Lights, a colourful new projection show at the Sugar Wharf and along Macrossan Street.
Regular favourites will include the Macrossan Street Parade and fireworks, Tin Shed Family Beach Day, Longest Lunch, Sideshow Alley, art and photography exhibitions and the Sunday Markets which will once again bring colour and energy to the Carnivale program.
For the sports-minded, there is the Port Douglas Carnivale Classic golf tournament and, this year, for runners, the Douglas Dash.
Even dog lovers are catered for with the Pooch Party, supporting Paws and Claws Animal Shelter.
The new program was officially unveiled last Friday May 2, at the Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort by Douglas Shire Mayor Lisa Scomazzon and the Sheraton’s executive chef Belinda Tuckwell.
“The Port Douglas Carnival provides a great boost to the local economy, bringing in around $5 million last year,” Cr Scomazzon said.
“It is a great help during a quiet time of the year,” she said
Cr Scomazzon said she looked forward to welcoming visitors and locals to experience this year’s expanded program.
“There is a lot to look forward to in this year’s program with over 20 different events,” she said.
“Partnering with Sound Australia to deliver an event of Savannah Sounds calibre at Rex Smeal Park is also a significant addition to Port Douglas Carnivale.”
Cr Scomazzon said she was confident visitors and locals alike would love the Carnivale 2025 program.
She also encouraged local businesses and community groups to get involved in the Macrossan Street Parade, with float entries open until May 9.
“The Street Parade is always a Carnivale highlight and a great way to be part of the celebrations. I encourage everyone thinking about it to jump online and register - it is not too late to get involved.”
Ms Tuckwell has only one regret and that is not being able to eat the amazing food herself as she gets so busy.
“The Sheraton Grand Mirage is very proud to be involved in the Port Douglas Carnivale, presenting the Longest Lunch, one of the key attractions of the whole event,” she said.
“We will also be organising an Italian Feast as a charity fund raiser the weekend before.
“This will pay homage to the original Italian cane growers in the area and features locally caught fish and vegetables grown in the Shire.”
For more information on Port Douglas Carnivale and to book tickets visit bit.ly/4jgOoFn
