Family-friendly adventure to be had at Queensland’s Festival of Outback Skies
From cheering on bull riders to star gazing, creative workshops to fossicking and, of course, the incredible lantern festival - there's no shortage of things to do at this incredible festival.
The vastness and beauty of outback Queensland is infamous the world over. The outback skies are like no other, and as a celebration of that, you’re invited to experience them for yourself this month at Hughenden’s Festival of Outback Skies featuring an array of live music, workshops, markets, bull riding competitions and much more over one exciting weekend from Friday, April 28 to Sunday, 30 April, 2023.
Located in the heart of North West Queensland, Hughenden will take centre stage with a brand-new festival that celebrates all-things Outback Queensland under the vast starry sky.
Where is Hughenden?
The Festival of Outback Skies is held in Hughenden, located half-way between Townsville and Mount Isa on the Flinders Highway, North West Queensland.
Wide-open spaces and memorable experiences await in the outback town of “Hughie” and you’ll find plenty of things to down in the region during your visit.
Families can enjoy the lantern festival, an array of live music, workshops, markets, bull riding competitions, craft workshops, lake swimming and more at the inaugural outback festival.
Outback skies are like no other!
How to get there
Hughenden and surrounds are serviced by rail, plane and bus routes and is a very accessible destination for those who prefer self-drive.
For those flying, Rex Airlines flies to Hughenden.
Where to stay
There is a number of motels and hotels in and around Hughenden, a local caravan park, and festival camping and glamping options available.
The festival site is spread across three precincts all within 500m of each other. The site is also walking distance from the Hughenden CBD.
The Hughenden Showgrounds will host the Dinner Under the Stars and the Bull Ride events, with live music, art workshops, cooking demos and more.
The Art Sculpture Trail at the historic Coolabah Tree will showcase sculptural pieces entered into the Art Sculptural Competition.
At the Hughenden Recreational Lake you can enjoy star gazing, water sports and food markets. The closing lantern parade is alongside the lake before they are released across the water and a memory making experience for families to treasure for a lifetime.
You can see the full program of events, mostly free, here.
