Townsville's newest community event is set to strike a chord with music lovers of all ages, with Townsville City Council proudly launching the inaugural Wintergarden Festival of Music next month.
This free, family-friendly festival will take place in the picturesque surrounds of Queens Gardens on the afternoons of August 8 and 9, celebrating the city's rich and diverse musical talent.
Following the Australian Festival of Chamber Music's (ACFM) relocation to Cairns, the Wintergarden Festival of Music will continue the tradition of bringing the community together for free live music in Queens Gardens.
Attendees will enjoy headline performances from the Great Barrier Reef Orchestra and1RAR Band, alongside a vibrant program featuring local schools, community groups and artists.
The event is named in honour of the historic Wintergarden Theatre, which stood on Sturt Street and was a beloved entertainment venue from the 1920s through to the '70s. It was ultimately demolished in 1991.
Mayor Nick Dametto said he hoped the festival would become a new Townsville tradition.
"Our city has an incredible depth of musical talent, and this festival is all about celebrating the people, groups and organisations that contribute to Townsville's vibrant arts and culture scene," Cr Dametto said.
"Events like this give our community the opportunity to come together and relax, enjoy great entertainment and make memories together in one of our most beautiful public parks.
"We know how much our community valued the Queens Gardens Concert over the years as part of the AFCM, and now we're excited to create a new community event that showcases local performers and brings people together through music."
The Wintergarden Festival of Music will run from 3-6pm on Saturday, August 8, and Sunday, August 9. It is an all-ages, alcohol-free event.
Residents are encouraged to pack a picnic rug, settle in under the trees or grab a bite to eat from a range of food trucks while soaking up an afternoon of live music.
