Bringing Back The Water Festival Mardi Gras

After Covid disruptions and a hiatus last year, the Burdekin Water Festival Grand Parade and Mardi Gras is finally making its much-anticipated return, bringing with it an evening of excitement, community spirit, and vibrant celebrations. As the weekend approaches, the local community is eagerly preparing to revive this beloved tradition.

This year’s event is particularly special as it marks the return back to Queen Street where it first began in 1958.  The 2024 theme of “Bring It Back” is not only bringing back the traditions of the past, they are hoping the Burdekin community will also bring back the support and attend in high numbers. The Grand Parade set to start at 4:30pm, promises to be the highlight of the night, with a colourful array of floats showcasing the creativity and enthusiasm of Junior and Senior Ambassadors and their supporting organisations, local groups and businesses. At the conclusion of the parade, sections of Queen Street will remain closed and the Mardi Gras will begin. Be sure to check the event map ahead of time to smoothly navigate the entry and exit points.

The Burdekin Water Festival is more than just a parade; it’s a reflection of the community’s collaborative spirit. The festival committee has worked closely with local organizations like the Queensland Police Service, State Emergency Service, and the Burdekin Shire Council to ensure the event runs smoothly and safely. This teamwork underscores the event's importance to the region, bringing together various groups to create an unforgettable experience.

Each float in the parade represents hours of hard work and dedication. Participating groups, from local schools to businesses, have been busy crafting their entries, eager to impress the crowds and judges with prizes awarded for The Best Junior Ambassador Float, The Best Senior Ambassador Float, The Best Theme Float and Grand Champion Float. Coordinators have been appointed for each group to manage the details, from ensuring safety measures are in place to adding the final touches to their floats. The parade is not just about showcasing creativity but also about bringing people together in a shared effort.

The Burdekin Water Festival is also a chance to experience the best of Burdekin’s community spirit. Volunteers, including parade marshals, will be on hand throughout the evening to help guide participants and ensure the safety of everyone involved. These marshals play a crucial role in keeping the parade on track and ensuring that both participants and spectators have a great time.

Spectators can look forward to a lively procession of floats, with each one bringing something unique to the parade. From beautifully decorated vehicles to groups in themed costumes, the parade is a visual feast that reflects the diversity and creativity of the Burdekin community.

The event is designed to be family-friendly, with something for everyone to enjoy. While the parade is the main attraction, Queen Street will be buzzing with activity, offering a variety of stalls, food options, and entertainment throughout the evening. Whether you’re there to cheer on the parade, sample local delicacies, or simply soak in the atmosphere, the Water Festival is a celebration of everything that makes Burdekin special.

While the focus is on fun, safety is always a priority. The festival committee has put measures in place to ensure that everyone can enjoy the event without worry. From ensuring floats are safe and well-managed to encouraging responsible behaviour from all attendees, the organizers have thought of everything to make the night both enjoyable and secure.

As the Burdekin Water Festival Mardi Gras draws near, the excitement is palpable. This cherished event, back after years of absence, brings the community together in a way that few others do, offering a night of joy, pride, and celebration. So, gather your family and friends, head to Queen Street, and get ready to be part of a Burdekin tradition that celebrates the best of the region.

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