The countdown is on for one of the region’s favourite celebrations, with the Childers Festival returning for another vibrant weekend of entertainment, culture and community.
Festivities kick off on Thursday 23 July, building towards the much-anticipated Festival Day on Sunday 26 July when the streets of Childers will come alive with more than 400 market stalls, live entertainment and attractions for all ages.
Visitors can browse everything from artisan products and local produce to international cuisine, while enjoying live music, cultural performances, roving entertainers and carnival rides throughout the day.
Whether you’re discovering the festival for the first time or making your annual return, there’s plenty to experience in the heart of Childers.
Plan before you go
To help make your Festival Day as smooth as possible, visitors are encouraged to check the Festival FAQs before travelling.
The guide includes important information on parking, transport, accessibility, road closures and event services.
A section of Bruce Highway/Churchill Street will be closed on Sunday 26 July from 5.30 am to 5.30 pm for Festival Day, with signed detours in place.
Traffic diversions will be as follows:
Southbound: Broadhurst, Macrossan and Stewart Sts
Northbound: Taylor St, Thompson Rd and Broadhurst St
Crescent Street will be closed from 6 am Thursday 23 July until 12 pm Monday 27 July.
Getting there and parking
Free parking is available at the Childers Showgrounds, while paid parking is offered at both Isis District State High School and St Joseph’s School from 7.45 am to 2 pm for $10 per vehicle.
A dedicated disabled parking area will be available at the corner of Lord and Crescent Streets.
Festival-goers staying at the Apple Tree Creek Showgrounds can also take advantage of the free shuttle bus, which will operate between the Apple Tree Creek Showgrounds, Childers Showgrounds and the Childers Council Depot throughout the festival.
Motorists are reminded to avoid parking across residential driveways, with Queensland Police monitoring traffic and parking throughout the day.
Lost children
Free wristbands for children will be available from the Queensland Police stall, located on the corner of North and Churchill Streets.
To help event staff and emergency services quickly reunite lost children with their parents or guardians, Council recommends taking a photo of your child on the morning of the event.
Having a recent photo can be invaluable if your child becomes separated from you.
Festival reminders
Extra ATMs will be available in Crescent St, while smoking is only permitted in designated smoking areas.
Alcohol purchased from winery and liquor stalls can only be consumed within designated licensed areas, and complimentary wristbands will be available to help reunite lost children with their families if needed.
Pets are not permitted within the festival site, with the exception of assistance animals.
With large crowds, warm weather and noise expected throughout the day, organisers encourage visitors to leave their furry companions safely at home.
A festival tradition
Now in its 30th year, the Childers Festival has evolved from a small food and wine event into one of Queensland’s premier regional festivals.
Presented by Bundaberg Regional Council with the support of the Friends of the Festival committee, the event continues to celebrate the region’s rich cultural heritage, diverse community and local talent.
For the full program and Festival Day FAQs, visit childersfestival.com.au.
