When the temps dip and the cardis come out, it’s time to embrace the countryside at its wintery best (you know you want to!).
From garden fairs bursting with colour to vintage cars rumbling through quiet country towns, and jazz festivals where the jumpers are only outshone by the warm country hospitality -there’s something for every kind of traveller, here in Queensland Country (queenslandcountrytourism.com.au/).
Here is your guide to some of the cosiest, quirkiest and most colourful events warming up the cooler months.
Esk Garden Fair 21 June, Pipeliner Park, Esk
The Esk Garden Fair is a perfect day out, and only a little over an hour from Brisbane. Stroll through stalls bursting with native plants, exotic blooms, and handmade garden décor. Pop into a workshop and pick up a few tricks from gardening gurus or simply bask in the laid-back country atmosphere.
Lockyer Powerfest
27 – 29 June, Lake Dyer, Laidley
Fast boats, country eats, and non-stop action — Lockyer Powerfest brings the heat to Lake Dyer this winter. Across three big days, powerboats tear up the water while crowds tuck into food truck favourites, browse market stalls and enjoy live entertainment. Pack the thermos, grab a seat by the water, and let the racing do the talking.
Snowflakes in Stanthorpe 4–6 July, Stanthorpe Showgrounds
Dreaming of a white winter? Stanthorpe’s got the next best thing. Snowflakes in Stanthorpe brings three days of wintry fun with toboggan rides, faux snow, mulled wine, and toasted marshmallows. Browse artisan markets, enjoy live music, and settle in at the International Food Fiesta with a glass of local wine or craft beer.
Jumpers and Jazz in July
17 – 27 July, Warwick
Quirky, colourful, and completely charming – Jumpers and Jazz in July is the perfect winter festival. The streets of Warwick turn into a yarn-lover’s paradise, with trees, bollards, and bikes wrapped in colourful woolly art. But it’s not all about the crochet, there is live jazz music around every corner, boutique markets, and you’ll find art exhibitions and food vendors adding extra colour (and flavour) to the festivities.
Gemfest – Festival of Gems 8–10 August, The Gemfields (Anakie, Sapphire, Rubyvale)
If you’re partial to a little sparkle (and let’s be honest, who isn’t?), make your way to the Central Queensland Highlands for Gemfest. This isn’t just a market, it’s a whole world of glittering stones, from rough-cut sapphires to the kind of bling that’d make the Crown Jewels blush. Bring the caravan or book a cosy cabin, then fossick, browse, and bargain to your heart’s content.
Historic Leyburn Sprints
23 and 24 August, Leyburn
Start your engines – or at least your travel plans – for this classic country motorsport event.
Set in the charming town of Leyburn, the Historic Sprints celebrate the golden age of racing with pre-1950s cars, vintage caravans and a whole lot of character. Whether you’re there for the nostalgia, the cars, or just to dip into the local pub, you’ll find yourself swept up in the atmosphere, that’s for sure.
TOP TIP: If you’re all about that caravanning and camping life (queenslandcountrytourism.com.au/itineraries/get-set-for-7-days-on-the-road-
and-the-ultimate-caravan-adventure), these events make the ultimate pit stop (or two!) on your road trip adventure.
The cooler months are anything but quiet (or disappointing) across the region and we invite you to explore, by visiting What’s on in Queensland Country.
