River to Reef Festival

River to Reef Festival

First Sunday in October

Celebrating Our Way of Life is the theme of the River to Reef Festival held in the town of Mackay, located on the eastern coast of Australia in Queensland. The celebration's name refers to the two natural landmarks of Mackay: the Pioneer River and one of the country's most popular tropical destinations, the Great Barrier Reef.
The celebration, which has taken place since 2005, offers food, dance, music, and other activities typically found at a family festival. Most events are held at the main stage, located alongside the Pioneer River. Children are treated to a concert that kicks off with a procession by a colorful "river serpent." Rock bands square off in a competition that includes a performance of an original song having a "River to Reef" theme. Other activities include a fashion show, a culinary competition, a show featuring fire-twirling performances, a riverside carnival, and a boat show.

CONTACTS:
Mackay City Council
P.O. Box 1410
Mackay, Queensland QLD 4740 Australia
www.mackay.qld.gov.au

Celebration days: Oct 2, 2011; Oct 7, 2012; Oct 6, 2013; Oct 5, 2014; Oct 4, 2015