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Australia's only dedicated UFO festival is set to return to Cardwell from Thursday 6th August to Sunday 9th August, bringing four days of guest speakers, entertainment, markets, tours and family-friendly activities to the Cassowary Coast.
Whether you're a firm believer, a curious sceptic or simply looking for a unique weekend out, the Australian UFO Festival promises something for everyone. The event celebrates the unexplained while showcasing the region through live entertainment, cultural experiences, food, art and local attractions. The festival's flagship attraction is the C-Files Forum, where researchers, authors and experiencers from across Australia will discuss UFOs, unexplained phenomena, ancient mysteries and emerging theories through presentations, panel discussions and audience question sessions.
What’s On:
Thursday 6th August
Opening Night & Stories in the Stars
On Thursday evening the festival officially opens with the premiere of Stories in the Stars, celebrating Indigenous astronomy, culture and storytelling, before the weekend's celebrations begin.
Friday 7th August
C-Files Forum – Day One
Held throughout the day, hear from researchers, investigators and authors exploring UFO sightings, witness accounts and some of Australia's best-known unexplained mysteries.
Saturday 8th August
Monster Market Day
Along the Cardwell Foreshore browse market stalls, enjoy family entertainment, food vendors, live performances and plenty of extraterrestrial-themed fun. Costumes are encouraged for visitors of all ages.
Alien Invasion Party
On Saturday evening along the Cardwell Foreshore, the festival's biggest social event features live music, entertainment and plenty of aliens, astronauts and other out-of-this-world costumes.
Sunday 9th August
C-Files Forum – Final Day
When: Throughout the day
Where: Cardwell
The final forum sessions examine ancient mysteries and future possibilities before wrapping up with an open-mic session where attendees can share their own stories and experiences.
C-Files Tours
When: Selected sessions during the weekend
Where: Departing from Cardwell
Visitors can also join guided tours to locations associated with local UFO sightings, mysterious lights, Yowie reports and other unexplained stories from the region.
With visitors travelling from across Australia and overseas, the Australian UFO Festival has become one of Cardwell's most distinctive annual events, blending mystery, entertainment and tourism into a weekend unlike any other. Whether you come for the research, the costumes or simply the atmosphere, this year's festival is sure to be out of this world.
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