Festival brings The Hills to life

Published 9:00am 10 April 2023

Words by Jodie Powell

The Hills Festival is back and better than ever in 2023.

The Hills will come alive throughout May with fireworks, rides, entertainment, and workshops for the entire month.

Enjoy a jam-packed program full of great events, activities and family friendly fun that’s sure to be a blast for all ages.

Get ready for four weeks of incredible shows, carnivals, entertainment, and festivities to celebrate everything that is the Moreton Bay Region’s Hills District.

Moreton Bay Region Industry & Tourism (MBRIT) CEO Shane Newcombe says this year’s Hills Festival is brimming with unique and varied activations across The Hills District.

“Thanks to local community groups, businesses, organisations and Moreton Bay Regional Council we’ve got an amazing month of events as part of this year’s program,” Mr Newcombe says.

“From wellness and art classes to community events and markets, there is something for everyone to get involved with.”

Free events

Moreton Bay Regional Council Mayor Peter Flannery says the month-long festival includes a host of Council and community-run events.

“Council will be putting on free events across the duration of May with something for everyone to enjoy, from Jazz & Shiraz to Wizards in the Park,” Mayor Flannery says.

“The program will culminate in the grand finale showcase event, Hills Carnivale, jam-packed with endless entertainment for the whole family to enjoy.

“You can take the little ones to the dedicated Kids Zone, be more daring and take on the Ride Zone, peruse the array of stallholders and food vans at Market Alley or head to the Main Stage where there’ll be music and live entertainment from noon-7pm, concluding with the huge fireworks display.”

Fun for the family

Councillor Matt Constance (Div 10) says The Hills district community loves to party and there’s no better excuse than a month full of free or low-cost events.”

“I’m particularly excited about the inclusion of Jazz & Shiraz at George Wilmore Park, where the parents get their turn to have fun and unwind in a light-hearted setting,” Cr Constance says.

“Grab your friends or family and a picnic rug and enjoy an afternoon of jazz tunes.

“There’ll be plenty of food trucks to satisfy and a licensed bar area to enjoy a responsible drink or two in the park.

“That’s just one of many awesome events that we’ll be rolling out as part of the fantastic Hills Festival program, so make sure to check it out at hillsfestival.com.au.”

The Hills Festival is proudly presented by MBRIT in partnership with Moreton Bay Regional Council.

Signature Hills Festival Events

Jazz & Shiraz – Mother’s Day

Sunday, May 14 / 1-5pm / George Willmore Park

Celebrate mum this Mother’s Day at the Jazz and Shiraz event in Ferny Hills.

On Sunday, May 14 George Willmore Park will host a stage program of local musicians and great live music.

Bring your picnic rugs, a comfy chair and sit back and relax with a glass of wine for an afternoon of enjoyable music.

Hills Carnivale

Saturday, May 27 / noon-7pm / George Willmore Park

Hills Carnivale, sponsored by Ausbuild, brings to a close four weeks of incredible events as part of The Hills Festival program. The annual Hills Carnivale is a favourite among locals and visitors alike.

George Willmore Park will be transformed into a family friendly Carnivale with a whole host of fun activities.

Kids Zone

The Hills Carnivale Kids Zone is the go-to place to keep the littlies busy at George Willmore Park. From noon-6pm the Kids Zone will feature workshops, activities, facepainting and laser tag.

With an animal meet and greet, dedicated kids’ stage and live shows, this zone is going to be a fan favourite.

Ride Zone

The Ride Zone is back at Hills Carnivale for 2023.

From $2 enjoy a huge selection of carnival rides for all ages. For the thrill-seekers head on over to the rock wall, obstacle course, giant slide, or the eternal favourite dodgem cars.

And for those looking for something a little tamer there’s plenty on offer with the merry-go-round, inflatable slide, jumping castle, and teacups.

Main Stage

Get your friends and family together to celebrate everything that is the Hills Carnivale.

The main stage will feature a program of local musicians, groovy tunes, and live entertainment. Performers will take to stage from noon-7pm - make sure you bring a picnic blanket or camping chair to unwind for an evening of Hills festivities.

Market Alley

An eclectic mix of artisans, local makers, and food trucks will fill Market Alley.

Spend the evening under the festoon lighting and stroll between the dozens of market vendors and stalls.

Hills Carnivale will also feature a great selection of food trucks, with a range of multicultural food, desserts, and snacks.

Fireworks

After an evening of music, food and Moreton Bay hospitality, the event concludes with an extravagant fireworks show.

Look to the sky at 7pm and enjoy this great conclusion to the Hills Festival.