Toowoomba’s Annual Carnival of Flowers Food & Drink Events: A roundup of the best food and drink experiences at the festival

The Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, 2 hours from Brisbane is an iconic Queensland event, with 350,000 visitors travelling to the city over a vibrant four-week period. Renowned for its colourful flowers and innovative garden designs, the Carnival also offers a unique insight into the burgeoning foodie scene of Toowoomba. Indulge in gourmet feasts at exclusive restaurants, sample the unique blends of emerging breweries, or savour the finest produce and wine from South East Queensland amidst a carnival atmosphere. A visit to Toowoomba Carnival Flowers promises to leave your palate as satisfied as your senses are dazzled.

Festival of Food & Wine

Experience three days of culinary bliss, Friday 13 – Sunday 15 September 2024, showcasing the finest produce from South East Queensland. Enjoy tastings of fresh flavours straight from the region’s pastures, orchards, and vineyards. Elevate your culinary skills with captivating cooking demonstrations led by celebrity chefs and meet the makers behind the delicious produce. Relax amongst the flowers in Queens Park eating delicious food and listening to the live music performances featuring some of Australia’s favourite musicians.

#trEATS

Uncover everything tasty in the region with #trEATS (Toowoomba Region eats). Local cafes, restaurants and pubs offer exclusive springtime specials only available during the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, 13 September – 7 October 2024. The full menu is released immediately before Carnival’s commencement, and our challenge for you is to try as many of these exclusive meals as possible!

Sip & Stroll Tours

Embark on this distinctive walking tour that seamlessly blends local charm with the elegance of Toowoomba’s trendiest venues. Indulge in small bites paired with handcrafted cocktails and specialty wines. Begin at The Empire Theatre, immersing yourself in its rich history while savouring specialty appetizers from Encores Restaurant. Continue to the vibrant Bodega Bar for your next cocktail and amidst neon lights and lively ambience. Conclude atop George Banks’ rooftop bar, where dessert and stunning views await. This three-course cocktail tour will be run on 20 September, 27 September, and 4 October 2024.

Dinner Edit

Unearth hidden gems, beloved by locals, as they open their doors for exclusive, intimate dinners during the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers. Indulge in three distinct after-hours dining experiences. On Saturday 21 September, Ortem Café will deliver exquisite meals crafted from locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. On Saturday 28 September, taste the exclusive menu curated by the chefs at Impressions on Scott. Or, on Saturday 5 October, enjoy a quiet dinner amidst the leafy trees at one of Toowoomba’s most iconic streets at 95 Mary Street cafe.

Talking Pub Tours

A history tour of Toowoomba focused on legendary local pubs... Yes Please! This immersive tour stops at three iconic pubs with a beverage and meal at each location. Start at The Brewhouse, delving into the venue’s behind-the-scenes workings while enjoying your first course. Next make your way to the CBD’s newest brewery, Bone Idol, for the main course and a tasting paddle of their beers. The tour ends with a luscious dessert at the beautifully renovated ex-hardware store Muller Bros. The Talking Pub Tours will be run 22 September, 29 September, and 6 October 2024.

For the full list of foodie experiences visit the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers website - https://tcof.com.au/