Port Douglas was packed with colour, music and tropical good times as Carnivale wrapped up after three days of celebrations from May 23 to 25.
From big-name acts at Rex Smeal Park to beach day antics, long lunches and late-night magic shows, the 2025 program delivered a weekend of fun across the town’s most iconic locations.
Douglas Shire Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said Carnivale brought the town to life with more than 10,000 people attending events across the weekend.
The Macrossan Street Parade drew crowds in their thousands on Friday night, with this year’s ‘Tropical Treasures’ theme setting the tone for a colourful night of floats, dancers and costumes.
The winning float went to Port Douglas State School for Best Overall, with Windswell Adventures and Sea Circus Productions taking out Best Business, Port Douglas Surf Life Saving Club named Best Community and Back Country Bliss Adventures awarded Best Eco Themed.
The weekend opened with The Longest Lunch at Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort Port Douglas, where guests were treated to a long table feast beneath the palms, complete with cocktails, a seven-venue culinary journey, a live DJ set by Jolyon Petch and sweeping views of the 9th
fairway. THe event also raised $18,000 for Douglas Shire charity KIND.
Music lovers had plenty to choose from, with the launch of Savannah Sounds drawing big crowds to Rex Smeal Park. Zoe Badwi, Sheppard, The Black Sorrows, Glenn Shorrock and others headlined across the three-day program.
Families hit Four Mile Beach on Saturday for The Tin Shed Family Beach Day, with sandcastle competitions, giant kites, beach games, live music and water sports by Windswell.
Other weekend highlights included the high-energy Temple of Fire pool party at Pullman Sea Temple, Café del Mar at Sheraton Sunset Sessions, the new Makers Tropic Lights projection trail turning Macrossan Street and Sugar Wharf into a glowing marine dreamscape.
The quirky Maho Magic Bar served up cocktails and close-up illusions at Dixie Park, while Sea Circus Treasured Tales brought aerial performers, fire dancers and circus magic to the Surf Club.
Sunday eased into a slower pace with the Poolside Fiesta at Oaks Resort, Port Douglas Markets, and art exhibitions including Go Troppo and the Tropical Destinations Photography showcase.
The Pooch Party raised over $3000 funds for Paws & Claws, and trail runners wrapped up the weekend with the Douglas Dash.
Mayor Scomazzon said early feedback from businesses and the community had been overwhelmingly positive.
“Everywhere you went, there were smiling faces. That’s what Carnivale is all about. A great weekend of food, fun and entertainment while also giving our local businesses and tour operators a well-needed boost ahead of season.
“Last year’s event delivered more than $5 million in direct economic value for the Douglas Shire, and we are hopeful this year’s numbers will be just as strong or if not better.”
