Mackay

As a bustling metropolitan in North Queensland, Mackay is a lively city that’s known for a number of national and global events that attract hundreds of thousands of visitors both locally and internationally. There are several annual events that are synonymous with the city of Mackay and you can expect locals and visitors alike to flock to these events each year. Below is a snapshot of some of the nationally or globally recognised annual events that people might observe in and around the city of Mackay.

1. The Mackay Festival of Arts
The Mackay Festival of Arts is an annual event which has been running for over three decades. This is a 10-day celebration of the arts, held in July every year, which includes a program of theatre, music, dance, cabaret, comedy and visual art. The Festival attracts some of the biggest names in the performing arts, both nationally and internationally. There’s always an impressive calendar of events for people of all ages, and visitors can expect a lively atmosphere in the heart of the Mackay CBD.

2. Pioneer Valley Show
The Pioneer Valley Show, which has been running since 1889, is a vibrant country fair held every June in the picturesque Pioneer Valley. This two-day show is a fun day out for the family and includes agricultural displays, horse shows, petting zoos, flower shows, and wood chopping competitions. Food, drinks, and live music are also available on site. With an array of attractions to choose from, there's something for everyone at the Pioneer Valley Show.

3. Mackay Marina Run
More recently becoming a staple annual event for the locals and visitors of Mackay is the annual Mackay Marina Run. This half marathon is held in June each year and is a community-oriented running event that encourages participation from people of all ages, sizes, and abilities. This event has different categories available for all experience levels ranging from a 5km walk or run to a half marathon. The routes offer stunning views of the marina and the stunning coastline.

4. Mackay Airport Beach Horse Racing Festival
The Mackay Airport Beach Horse Racing Festival is a unique and exciting annual event that brings together horse racing enthusiasts and beach lovers alike for an action-packed day. Evolving from being a small village racing event, this festival is one that has become an integral part of the Mackay social calendar and attracts visitors from all over Queensland. Races are held on the beach, creating a spectacular atmosphere, with wagering and cash prizes to be won.

5. Eungella Bird Week
Bird watchers will want to mark their calendars for the annual Eungella Bird Week, which is held for a week in August each year. Eungella is located in the hinterland of Mackay and is known as one of the world's premier bird-watching locations. The event offers bird lovers the opportunity to explore this bird watchers’ paradise where they can observe, learn from and interact with some of the rarest bird species in the world.

6. Greater Whitsunday Farmers Market
The Greater Whitsunday Farmers Market is a weekly event held every Sunday at the Bluewater Quay in Mackay. This weekly market offers farm-to-table produce that is locally sourced from the Greater Whitsunday region. Visitors can enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables, quality meat and egg products, honey harvested locally, regional artisan products and much more. With additional stalls offering a variety of handicrafts and unique items, visitors are sure to find something they love.

there are many nationally and globally recognised annual events that people can observe in and around the city of Mackay. The above events are just a snapshot of the exciting and diverse events offered throughout the year. Each event provides visitors with an interesting and unique experience, showcasing what Mackay, Queensland has to offer. No matter what the month, there’s always something fun happening in Mackay.