What’s happening?
Carnival season in Toowoomba opens at Grand Central today, Friday 12 September, with Council’s Floral Friday Launch held alongside the official start of the Itty Bitty Floral Parade. The presentation begins at 9.30am on Level 1 near Rozzis. Councillors, Centre Management staff, and the creators of the miniature parade floats will be present.
Why it matters
The Carnival is one of the region’s most visible community traditions. Grand Central’s involvement provides a central venue where community groups and local retailers can showcase their work and invite public participation.
Local impact
The Itty Bitty Floral Parade features small-scale floats created by community groups. A $500 gift card will go to the winning group. Members of the public can vote for their favourite float, with one voter to receive a $100 gift card. From 17 September, retailers across the centre will also take part in a shopfront decorating competition that continues until 6 October.
By the numbers
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$500 gift card prize for the winning community float.
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$100 gift card for one voter in the Itty Bitty competition.
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6 October is the closing date for both the parade and shopfront contests.
Zoom In
On Saturday 20 September, the centre will host a Parade After Party in Central Square near Vapiano from 12pm to 4pm. The program will include community group performances, markets, and family activities. Other activities scheduled for that day are:
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Retailer Lucky Dip, 11am to 3pm, Centre Court Level 1 near Smiggle.
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Food sampling, 11am to 3pm, Level 1 near Rozzis.
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Foundation Flowers, from 11am until sold out, Central Square near Vapiano, supporting Toowoomba Hospital Foundation.
Zoom Out
From Sunday 21 September to Sunday 5 October, Petal Park runs daily from 10am to 2pm at Centre Court near Smiggle. Children can take part in spring-themed crafts, including decorating sunglasses to keep.
What to look for next?
Voting remains open until 6 October for the Itty Bitty Parade and the retailer shopfront displays. The After Party and Petal Park holiday program continue the Carnival schedule through September and October.