Excitement Builds For The Ingham Maraka Festival 2025!

As the countdown to the beloved Maraka Festival and Street Parade begins, excitement is truly in the air! Kicking off this Friday morning, the “Spot the Window” competition invites participants to collect entry forms from Harvey Norman Ingham, with submissions due by 4 PM on Friday, October 24. This fun community activity sets the stage for a weekend packed with colour, music, and celebration.

Saturday, October 25 – A Day to Remember
The festivities burst into full swing on Saturday with the Maraka Kids Big Day Out at the Ingham Showgrounds. This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever, featuring seven fantastic activities – all completely free for families. Young artists aged 1–12 are encouraged to bring their own water paints for the ever-popular Fence Painting activity, proudly sponsored by Guido’s Panel and Paint and McDonald's Ingham.

The Pet Parade, thanks to Tropical Vets, is another crowd favourite. Categories like Best Dressed Petand Fastest Eating Dog promise smiles and giggles for all. Families can also enjoy hands-on experiences at the Petting Zoo, brought to life by local farms. New this year are adrenaline-packed attractions including Laser Tag and Gel Blasters, sponsored by SpinFX Electrical NQ are sure to keep the kids buzzing with excitement.

Spotlight on the Maraka Queens and Princesses
No Maraka Festival would be complete without the presence of the Maraka Queens and Princesses, who proudly represent the heart and heritage of our community. These young ambassadors have been busy in the lead-up to the festival, attending Maraka events and spreading the Maraka spirit. Be sure to give them a wave during the Street Parade — they’ll be riding in style on beautifully decorated floats. Their involvement honours the long-standing traditions of the festival and celebrates the achievements and spirit of local youth.

Street Parade & Musical Magic
As the sun sets, the Maraka Street Parade proudly sponsored by Ergon Energy and BK Bartolini Concreting & Earthworks, will showcase a dazzling array of floats, embodying this year’s theme of “Music Thru the Ages.” Expect to see creative contributions from local schools, businesses, and community groups. The parade will be accompanied by the rousing sounds of the Thuringowa Brass Band, and the evening’s entertainment continues at Rotary Parkwith a live performance by country favourite Peter Cullen.  This musical spectacle is a perfect way for the community to come together and celebrate.

The night wraps up with a festive Mardi Gras-style atmosphere, complete with fireworks, rides, and a family-friendly concert. Children under 16 can enjoy limited free tickets for rides, making this a truly inclusive event for all ages.  Thanks to NQIB  sponsoring the stage, QCAR the bar and co-sponsors Ingham Agencies and Townsville Lime & Gypsum the fireworks.

With delicious food, refreshing drinks, and endless entertainment, the 2025 Maraka Festival is set to be a highlight of the year for Ingham residents and visitors alike. Mark your calendars for October 25 – and get ready to enjoy a day of fun, music, and community pride!