The 2026 Laidley Spring Festival has left the region on a high, with festival crowds enjoying jam-packed program of events across the three-day event.
Lockyer Valley Regional Council Mayor, Cr Tanya Milligan said record crowds once again flocked to the event, with preliminary estimates exceeding 22,000 visitors for the weekend.
“We’ve once again been left amazed by the attendance and support we’ve received for this year’s Laidley Spring Festival.
“After the recent bushfires and heatwave, we were thrilled to welcome kinder temperatures, which offered the perfect setting for our incredible makers, creators, producers, artists, musicians, and of course, unforgettable food to take the spotlight,” Mayor Milligan said.
“Bluey and Bingo were a huge highlight and had the Recreation Reserve packed with our littlest of attendees boogie-ing away.
“The community expo had the Garden Precinct full of activity on both Friday and Saturday.
“Saturday saw crowds line Patrick Street for the Street Parade, where Laidley District State School took out the title of Grand Champion Float. The Parade boasted more than 30 entries including floats, vintage cars and tractors, walking community groups, roving entertainers and marching bands.
“Bulging numbers squeezed in for a clear viewing spot on the main street, with locals reporting the largest numbers in a decade
“More than 180 vehicles fronted the Show ‘n’ Shine on Saturday morning and Sunday’s Bee Happy Day was again an incredible success, with more than 2000 visitors swarming in Forest Hill to enjoy the Makers Markets, bubble play space, bee crafts, and a wildlife Meet & Greet.
“Overall, the event drew thousands of attendees and proved yet another major success for vendors, entertainers, organisers and our amazing volunteers.
“The strong community turnout highlighted the importance people place on connection, and it was fantastic to see residents and visitors enjoying all the event had to offer.
“I am extremely grateful to our staff, media partners, sponsors and volunteers for their commitment and support in delivering such a successful event,” Mayor Milligan said
Congratulations to this year’s parade winners, who were:
Grand Champion:
Best Children’s:Laidley District State School
Best Sporting Group: Move and Groove Dance School
Best Community Group/Cultural: Laidley Community Centre
Historic/Antique Motor Vehicle Group: 2nd Light Horse Lockyer Troop
Best Business Float: RDO Equipment
For further information, contact Council on 1300 005 872 or visit www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au
