New funding keeps Toowoomba flower festival in bloom
Australia’s longest-running floral event is getting new funds to bolster the event that brings in tens of millions of dollars for Queensland.
The state government has extended its funding for the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers until 2027, securing the short-term future for Australia’s longest-running floral event.
Since launching in 1949 as a way to boost the local economy after World War II, the Carnival of Flowers has grown into a signature tourism event for Toowoomba and the Darling Downs region with organisers this year promising 80 events across the region.
The carnival was expected to attract more than 21,700 visitors to Queensland over the next two years, injecting around $32.7 million into the state’s economy in 2026, before rising to $34.2 million in 2027, the state government said.
Environment and Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said the funding extension reinforced the state’s commitment to delivering high-impact, globally recognised events.
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“Through strategic investment from the Crisafulli Government, commitment from the organisers and the passion of the local community, this event has driven real results, boosted local jobs and helped the Darling Downs economy to thrive,” Powell said.
This year’s event would feature floral parks at Queens Park Botanic Gardens, and Laurel Bank Park with the traditional Floral Parade.
Tourism and Events Queensland CEO Craig Davidson said protecting the future of Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers for another two years would generate significant cultural and economic outcomes.
“Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers not only captivates with its stunning displays but also plays a strategic role in driving visitation and supporting local businesses across the region,” Davidson said.
“We are proud to support this legacy event for another two years and I am confident it will continue to attract both new and returning audiences, who are looking to immerse themselves in the sights and scents of this enduring Queensland tradition.”
Organisers said the event would have more than 40 million petals on display this year
Member for Toowoomba North Trevor Watts said he was excited to see what this year’s Carnival holds in store.
“Carnival is the most spectacular time for the region, our city is on show, and huge amounts of people travel into Toowoomba each year to come see our gardens,” Watts said.
The 2026 Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers is scheduled to take place this Spring from Friday September 18 to Monday October 5.
