Escape to the St Lawrence Wetlands Festival

Where wetlands, wide-open skies and good old country hospitality come together.

Just south of Mackay, the township of St Lawrence transforms each year for one of regional Queensland’s most unique celebrations, the St Lawrence Wetlands Festival. Set against the backdrop of the breathtaking St Lawrence Wetlands, this three-day festival blends food, music, art, culture and nature into an unforgettable outback coastal escape.

Think live music under starry skies, fresh local seafood, vibrant markets, guided wetlands tours, family-friendly fun and long afternoons spent soaking up the laidback atmosphere. Whether you’re camping for the weekend, road-tripping the coast or simply chasing a different kind of festival experience, this is the kind of event that invites you to slow down and settle in.

A festival inspired by nature

The St Lawrence Wetlands are part of the nationally significant Broadsound Wetlands system, a vast landscape of tidal flats, lagoons, mangroves and melaleuca wetlands teeming with wildlife. It’s the perfect backdrop for a festival that celebrates connection to country, creativity and community.

From sunrise birdwatching tours to golden-hour sunsets over the wetlands, there’s something grounding about spending time here. You’ll swap busy schedules for barefoot afternoons, camp chairs and conversations under the stars.

Where history runs deep

There’s history around every corner in St Lawrence. One of the oldest towns on the Queensland coast, this quiet community was once a thriving port connecting the coast to inland Queensland. Wander through town and you’ll uncover stories of pioneering settlers, historic buildings, old meatworks and one of the region’s most fascinating pasts, all set against the backdrop of wetlands, wide-open landscapes and salty coastal air.

Music, markets and country hospitality

The festival program brings together a vibrant mix of live entertainment, food experiences, workshops and community events across the weekend.

Wander through the market stalls, enjoy local flavours fresh from the region, settle in for live music and discover the stories, people and landscapes that make St Lawrence so special.

Families can enjoy plenty of kid-friendly activities, while nature lovers can dive into guided eco experiences and wetlands tours showcasing the incredible biodiversity of the region. Festival favourites include the popular Bird Walk, offering the chance to experience the wetlands' incredible birdlife up close, and the elegant High Tea experience, perfect for those looking to slow down and savour the region's hospitality.

For something even more hands-on, don’t miss out on the workshops. From tie-dye and jewellery making to watercolours, leathercraft, woodcarving and mindful art sessions, there’s a workshop for every kind of maker (and even the “I’m not creative but I’ll give it a go” crowd).

Camp under the stars

One of the best ways to experience the festival is to stay for the whole weekend.

On-site camping and glamping lets you fully embrace the relaxed atmosphere, with evenings spent around campgrounds swapping stories after a day of festival fun. Spaces are limited - book your camping and glamping online here.

Prefer a few extra comforts? Nearby coastal communities including Clairview and Carmaila offer accommodation options within easy driving distance.

The ultimate regional Queensland road trip

St Lawrence makes for an easy long weekend escape. Pack the camping gear, bring your camera and hit the road for a festival experience unlike anywhere else in Queensland.

Whether you come for the music, the wetlands, the community spirit or simply the chance to unplug for a few days, you’ll leave with salt air in your lungs and memories that linger long after the weekend ends.

Ready to experience it for yourself?

Don't miss out - gather your crew, lock in your tickets and get ready for an unforgettable weekend celebrating nature, community and country hospitality in the heart of the St Lawrence Wetlands.

Explore the full festival program and get your tickets

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