What’s Happening?
The Empire’s annual THRIVE Festival wrapped up after a four-day run from 24 to 27 September 2026. Presented with C&K Childcare and Kindergarten, the school holiday festival celebrated creativity, play and storytelling through an outer space theme.
Families enjoyed activities on the lawn, performances and workshops, while a student-made installation filled the Church Theatre.
Why It Matters
The Empire CEO Giuliana Bonel said it was wonderful to welcome families back to a festival that has become a much-loved part of Toowoomba’s cultural calendar.
“This year’s program, celebrating outer space, gave visitors the opportunity to discover new worlds through a sensational lineup, including our first artist-in-residence with Gold Coast-based ARC Circus whose energy, creativity and unique talents brought something truly special to the 2026 THRIVE Festival,” Ms Bonel said.
Local Impact
Seven local businesses and nine government and community partners supported the festival. Local schools helped create its centrepiece, while volunteers gave their time across the event.
“THRIVE Festival is all about connection and bringing our community together; from the families enjoying activities on the lawn through to the artists on our stages bringing stories to life, and none of it would be possible without the generous support of our volunteers, local schools, local businesses, partners and most importantly, our audiences.”
By The Numbers
- More than 5,200 people attended the four-day, space-themed THRIVE Festival at The Empire from 24 to 27 September.
- 31 performances, workshops and experiences brought more than 67 artists and presenters to the festival’s family program.
- 85 volunteers contributed more than 237 hours, alongside support from seven local businesses and nine government and community partners.
Zoom In
First Five Forever’s theatrical reading, accompanied by the Toowoomba Concert Orchestra, drew its largest audience yet.
“One of the most anticipated events in our festival each year is First Five Forever’s theatrical reading, accompanied by the incredible Toowoomba Concert Orchestra. This year, it drew its largest-ever attendance, with 932 people across two performances gathering in the main auditorium to enjoy Scott Stuart’s wonderful children’s book, Alone,” Ms Bonel said.
Students also contributed to Thriving Galaxy, the festival’s centrepiece installation.
“The festival centrepiece installation, Thriving Galaxy, supported by People First Bank was created with contributions of more than 405 students from 12 different schools, submitting 18 entries, which when combined created one stunning piece of art that was on display in the Church Theatre throughout the event,” she said.
Zoom Out
Festival supporters included Toowoomba Regional Council, the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF), Friends of The Empire and People First Bank. Clifford Gardens, Toowoomba Orthodontists, Stirling and Truffles also supported the event.
First 5 Forever is a Queensland Government initiative coordinated by State Library of Queensland and delivered with local government.
What To Look For Next?
Families can find more performances and events in The Empire’s upcoming program.