Crazy, cool, a touch of class and community... Carnivale is coming!

Port Douglas Carnivale

Bryan Littlely

Journalist

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Maho Magic Bar is set to bring some of Tokyo's crazy coolness to the Tropics for Port Douglas Carnivale. Picture: Supplied

The “crazy cool fun” of Tokyo is coming to Carnivale, the neon-lit Maho Magic Bar set to wow crowds as one of the exciting new twists and treasured traditions mark the return of Port Douglas Carnivale this May.

Promising an event-filled three days, featuring a lineup that promises a little magic, a whole lot of crazy and a splash of tropical flair, Maho Magic Bar - a first-of-its-kind spectacle for the region - is set to redefine entertainment in Tropical North Queensland.

Direct from the neon-lit streets of Tokyo, Maho Magic Bar by Broad Encounters, will light up the palms of Dixie Park with its electrifying pop-up venue and show. 

Expect world-class magicians, expertly crafted cocktails, plenty of sake and an atmosphere brimming with mischief and mayhem as Carnivale goes international during its four-week season from May 14 to June 8.

Kirsten Siddle, creative director of Broad Encounters, said the concept behind Maho Magic Bar was to bring some of Japan’s “crazy, cool, fun” to Australia and give audiences an experience unlike anything they have had before. 

“Seeing close-up magic really does inspire awe,’’ Kirsten says.

“The skill, finesse and personalities of these master magicians is mind-blowing and Maho Magic Bar is the ultimate, hedonistic night out in Tokyo, without leaving Queensland."

Inspired already, Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said Maho Magic Bar added a new twist to the Carnivale program, which also sees the beloved staple, The Longest Lunch return to the Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas, where it was last hosted in 2014. 

Kicking off the Carnivale weekend festivities on Friday, May 23, guests can anticipate a feast that celebrates the bounty of Tropical North Queensland, from fresh seafood to local tropical produce, all set against the Sheraton’s iconic backdrop of palms and beach.

“The Longest Lunch is not only a celebration of our region’s fantastic culinary offerings but also a time-honoured tradition that sets the tone for the weekend to come,” Mrs Scomazzon added. 

The Street Parade, returning in 2025 with a Tropical Treasures theme, will also celebrate the unique natural beauty, culture and community spirit of the Douglas region. 

“Registrations are now open online, and we strongly encourage the entire community to be involved," Mrs Scomazzon said.

“Last year, we saw one of our largest crowds ever gather to enjoy the Street Parade. 

“The enthusiasm and involvement from the community truly underscore how much this event is loved and celebrated, highlighting all that makes our region such a wonderful place to live and visit.”

Tickets are now on sale for the Maho Magic Bar, priced from $62.10 (plus booking fee).

For more information and to book tickets visit the website www.carnivale.com.au.

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