Entertainment
18 September, 2026
Step back in time at festival
THE Innisfail Tropical Art Deco Festival is in full swing on the Cassowary Coast.
“We’re thrilled to be able to bring Innisfail’s art deco history alive for locals and visitors,” said society president Trish Ernst said.
“The tours are an added attraction for our town which showcases our distinctive art deco architecture combined with fascinating stories of the town’s people and events of the past,” she said.
On Friday there is Art Deco 101 presentation at Innisfail Library at 10.30am followed by a shire hall tour at 12.30pm. Both are free.
“The 1920s Caribbean cruise murder mystery dinner at the Brothers’ Leagues Club (Friday) will be a night of fancy-dress fun and games with a delicious two-course meal,” Ms Ernst said.
“Guests can dress to impress as a high society passenger, pirate or member of the ship’s crew.”
Ms Ernst said on Saturday the Lions market was in ANZAC Park with jazz music in the rotunda provided by the Innisfail Community Band.
“Enjoy the art deco elegance of the fashion parade and fabulous afternoon tea at the Conservatorium at the ‘Fashion through the ages event’,” she said.
“With a parade of historical outfits from 1890s and 1920s through to the latest modern trends, children’s fashions and racewear, it is an event not to be missed.
“There’ll also be a special presentation of bridal wear and glamorous evening gowns. Enjoy a spectacular performance by Danceworks Academy during the afternoon and a selection of timeless art deco music.
“Come dressed in your favourite fashion era to get into the spirit of the event and win a best-dressed prize.”
The bar will be operating on the day, with raffle and lucky door prizes on offer. Call Rhonda on 0427 616 990 or book online.
“If you’re still looking for something to do on Saturday night, call Paronella Park to see the ‘Darkness falls’ light show,” Ms Ernst said.
“Don’t stay out too late because you’ll need to be up early on Sunday to attend the vintage market in the shire hall which commences at 8am this year,” she said.
“It’s the biggest market yet, with a bargain, piece of treasure, jewellery, clothing or curio to suit everyone.
“Refreshments will be provided by the Innisfail Historical Society with lively entertainment on the veranda while you enjoy your coffee and cake. Entry is by gold coin with the market operating from 8am to 1pm.
“Take the kids out to Warrina Lakes from 10am to 2pm to the Innisfail mini-rail family fun day.
“With train rides, stalls and barbecue it’s a great day out with some vintage fun and music. There’ll be sack races, egg and spoon and three-legged races with a prize for every child that participates.”
Visit the Innisfail Historical Society’s website at innisfailhistory.com.au for the festival event program and booking details or google ‘tropical art deco’ on Facebook.
