If you are planning to be in our region over the Easter long weekend, you’ll be thrilled to learn about the Emerald Easter Sunflower Festival. Promising tonnes of fun from rodeo events to floats and parades, read on to discover the history and excitement that awaits this Easter 2021.
Once a major sunflower producer, the town of Emerald is fascinatingly home to the world’s biggest Van Gogh sunflower painting. You can find the masterpiece on a massive easel in Morton Park, by the west end of Clermont Street. If you’d like to learn more about the painting itself, the Emerald Visitor Information Centre has all the juicy details that will fill your curiosity.
If that isn’t a big enough attraction to visit Emerald, there is a romantic notion to the symbol of sunflowers. Instilled upon the heart of every resident in Emerald, there is an honorary celebration of the town’s history displayed in the Emerald Easter Sunflower Festival, which happens every year.
A history that dates back over 40 years ago, the event has made an impression throughout all of Central Highlands, Queensland. Spanning over five days, you can only imagine the variety of events and entertainment that will surely appease, no matter what your fancy may be.
From adventure seekers to those looking to relax with family and friends, a wander to the Emerald Easter Sunflower Festival has something for everyone.
Easter Sunflower Queen High Tea
Embrace in the history of parades and Sunflower Queens by having high tea with the Sunflower Queen and Junior Entrants on Sunday 28 March 2021 at 2pm in the Town Hall Supper Room. With lucky draws, multi draws, that add to the excitement, enjoy this special social event for just $15 a ticket or $10 a ticket for those under 18. Book your tickets by visiting this link. For more information visit 0427 276 746 or email the team.
Art Gallery Exhibition and Entrant Speeches
Admire the art gallery exhibitions as you listen to the inspiring entrant speeches of the Sunflower Queen Entrants. Happening on Wednesday night 31 March 2021, the excitement only grows from here.
Good Friday Service
Attend the combined church service on Friday Night 2 April 2021. A beautiful event that speaks to the heart, this service is one that should be attended to see the hearts that make Emerald.
Sunflower Parade and Family Fun Day
Beginning at Emerald Racecourse, the Sunflower Parade begins on Easter Saturday, 3 April 2021, at 9am. During these celebrations, the Easter Sunflower Queen will be crowned. Residents gather together with their loved ones in admiration of the fantastic floats for each Sunflower Queen Entrant and decorations displayed during the parade, in pride of the accomplishments and beauty of the Easter Sunflower Queen. The best float is also announced, and have included Emerald Pre-School and Kindergarten, whereby the kids were the artists behind the float and its decorations.
The Festival Parade is known for having large crowds lining the streets of Rundle Park all the way to Pioneer Park Racecourse. For the little ones, gather your excitement as you bring along a basket in hopes of catching some lollies and Easter eggs that are thrown by the various floats in the parade.
Easter Sunday Races and Rodeo
On the same day and very soon after the parade, the event flows into the thrills of the Emerald Easter Sunflower Rodeo kicking off at roughly 3pm. Promising a full list of rodeo events, featuring some of the best competitors in Australia, the rodeo certainly attracts a large audience.
Previous years have seen 5 live horse races as part of the event, with TAB and bookies available for those wanting to try their luck.
There are plenty of market stalls and kids rides at the racecourse, ensuring fun for the kids while the adults enjoy the races.
Entry is free for everyone, however, you must book a ticket to assist with Covid contact tracing requirements.
Where to eat in Emerald
If you’re looking for quality food to celebrate Easter in Emerald this year, head to the Maraboon Tavern to not be disappointed.
Featuring a live entertainment presence of Jason Rigby on 3 April 2021, you won’t want to miss the show. Fantastic music, warm and welcoming atmosphere, a spectacular crowd followed by first class service and impeccable food and drinks, there isn’t a place better to be in Emerald than the Maraboon Tavern during the Easter long weekend.
There’s also a dedicated play area for kids to have fun, while the adults kick back, relax and enjoy the entertainment.
