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SPARK Ipswich Festival returns

Guy Hazlewood    May 29, 2024    3 min read   

The highly anticipated SPARK Ipswich Festival is set to ignite the city’s cultural scene once again, running for 11 action-packed days from July 4.

Now in its fourth year, SPARK Ipswich promises an even more spectacular celebration of arts and culture, solidifying its status as one of the must-see festivals in South-East Queensland.

The Common People Dance Project is back for SPARK Ipswich. Source: Ipswich City Council

Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding expressed her enthusiasm for this year’s festival.

“SPARK is now one of council’s signature festivals and has grown to join Planes, Trains & Autos and the Festival of Horsepower as must-see festivals across South-East Queensland,” Mayor Harding said.

“Ipswich is embracing its emerging cultural scene, and there will be plenty of local talent on show. I, for one, can’t wait to see what Ipswich brings to the table in this year’s version of the Common People Dance project, which returns for its second year.”

The Common People Dance project, which garnered significant community support last year, will once again showcase the vibrancy and spirit of Ipswich.

The festival promises to fill the city with music, joy, and a dynamic cultural experience for both locals and visitors.

Councillor Pye Augustine, Chairperson of the Economic and Cultural Development Committee, highlighted the diverse and creative programming that SPARK Ipswich will offer.

“This year’s program is a mix of returning favourites as well as three fresh events, including Circuit – Music in Many Places, which will see pulsating beats played across 15 unique venues within Ipswich Central, including trendy barbershops, art-filled spaces, and pubs,” Cr Augustine said.

A new addition to this year’s festival is the Teddy Bear’s Picnic on July 6, inviting children and their families to bring their favorite teddy bears, picnic rugs, and brunch to enjoy the entertainment.

Another exciting event for younger attendees is “A World of My Own,” an interactive fibre arts garden featuring reading, craft, and play activities, set to take place at the Queens Park Environmental Education Centre from June 24 to July 13.

Returning favourites include:

  • deLight: A large-scale projection of local artworks in d’Arcy Doyle Place, featuring projections on 143 Brisbane Street and St. Paul’s Anglican Church. This year will showcase a record-breaking 17 local artists.
  • WOMI (World of Music Ipswich): A vibrant one-day world music festival in Springfield Central, featuring a diverse lineup of music from around the globe.
  • Little Day Out: A festival highlight where attendees of all ages are invited to sing, dance, create, and play.
  • Common People Dance Eisteddfod: The festival’s grand finale, filled with sequins, sweat, and spandex, promising a spectacular end to the celebrations.

For more details and the full program of events, visit www.sparkipswich.com.au.

This year’s SPARK Ipswich Festival is set to be an unforgettable celebration, bringing energy, creativity, and cultural vibrancy to the heart of Ipswich.

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Guy Hazlewood