Entertainment
19 February, 2025
Magic touch at Carnivale
THE return of Port Douglas Carnivale this May features a line-up that promises a little magic, a whole lot of crazy and a splash of tropical flair over three event-filled days.
In a first-of-its-kind spectacle for the region, Port Douglas Carnivale will host Maho Magic Bar, an event that is set to redefine entertainment in Tropical North Queensland.
Direct from the neon-lit streets of Tokyo, Maho Magic Bar by Broad Encounters, will light up the palms of Dixie Park with its electrifying pop-up venue and show.
Expect world-class magicians, expertly-crafted cocktails, plenty of sake and an atmosphere brimming with mischief and mayhem as Carnivale goes international during its four-week season from May 14 to June 8.
Broad Encounters creative director Kirsten Siddle said the concept behind Maho Magic Bar was to bring some of Japan’s ‘crazy, cool, fun’ to Australia and give audiences an experience unlike anything they have had before.
“Seeing close-up magic really does inspire awe. The skill, finesse and personalities of these master magicians is mind-blowing and Maho Magic Bar is the ultimate, hedonistic night out in Tokyo, without leaving Queensland,” she said.
Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said Maho Magic Bar added a new twist to the Carnivale program, which also would involve the beloved staple, the longest lunch returning to the Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort where it was last hosted in 2014.
Kicking off the Carnivale weekend festivities on Friday, May 23, guests can anticipate a feast that celebrates the bounty of Tropical North Queensland, from fresh seafood to local tropical produce, all set against the Sheraton’s iconic backdrop of palms and beach.
“The longest lunch is not only a celebration of our region’s fantastic culinary offerings but also a time-honoured tradition that sets the tone for the weekend to come,” Cr Scomazzon said.
The street parade, returning in 2025 with a tropical treasures theme, will also celebrate the unique natural beauty, culture and community spirit of the Douglas region.
“Registrations are now open online, and we strongly encourage the entire community to be involved. Last year, we saw one of our largest crowds ever gather to enjoy the street parade.
“The enthusiasm and involvement from the community truly underscore how much this event is loved and celebrated, highlighting all that makes our region such a wonderful place to live and visit.”
Tickets are now on sale for the Maho Magic Bar, priced from $62.10 (plus booking fee).
For more information and to book tickets visit the website https://bit.ly/40SvEEf
