THE HIGHLY anticipated Cruise Whitsundays Great Barrier Reef Festival is set to ignite Airlie Beach, from Friday, August 1, to Sunday, August 3, 2025.
The festival promises an immersive weekend of celebration and reef themed events and art. The 2025 Festival theme is Coral Kingdom.
This beloved annual event invites locals and visitors to immerse themselves in the magic of the Whitsundays, showcasing the region’s vibrant culture and its unique connection to the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef.
The 2025 festival is packed with a dazzling array of FREE events for all ages, including:
- Whitsunday Regional Council Fireworks on the Foreshore: Kick off the festival with a spectacular display lighting up the night sky while browsing night markets and enjoying the array of finger-licking food on offer.
- Rotary Street Parade: In its 22nd year, this colourful procession through the main town brings together schools, businesses and non-profits to showcase their perspective on the reef.
- Revvin’ the Reef Car Show powered by Enzed Whitsunday and Hogs Breath Cafe: Stroll the main street of Airlie Beach and admire the extensive collection of cars, all shined to perfection and proudly displayed by owners.
- Ark Energy Family Fun Day: Enjoy a day dedicated to smiles and laughter with activities for the whole family, connect with Traditional Owners and learn more about sea country and the connection we all share to this natural wonder.
- Tassal Immerse Art Installation: Experience 6 metre humpback whale installations and recycled artwork, which transform the Airlie Beach foreshore into a reef on land. Showcasing local artists and their innovative and sustainable works deepens the festival’s connection to the reef.
- Coral Sea Marina Resort Lantern Parade: Children and adults join this procession that weaves along the water’s edge, arriving into the festival precinct as it gets dark. A breathtaking procession to watch.
Live Entertainment
Part of the Great Barrier Reef Festival’s mission is to deliver exceptional FREE live entertainment for the community.
In 2025, that mission has been taken to another level with the support of Main Stage sponsor, at Hotel Group.
Friday Night Entertainment
- Kicking off the festival will be a Welcome to Country leading into a musical theatre performance from Proserpine High School Seagrass Theatre Group.
- Taking the stage late into the night, and continuing the showcase of outstanding youth talent, are high energy family trio Obisun, followed by DJs pumping up the energy.
Saturday Night Entertainment
- Live on the Main Stage for their first Whitsundays appearance is Caravana Sun, hailing from Southern Sydney, they are renowned for their captivating live shows, blending driving atmospheric guitar riffs with swirling analogue synthesis to create an irresistible party atmosphere.
- Flanking Caravana Sun on the main stage and sponsored by longtime festival supporter, Magnums Airlie Beach, is a taste of the brand new, electrifying cabaret show, Nostalgia, and Obisun making a second appearance.
Sunday Entertainment
- Encapsulating the Airlie Beach vibe, Sunday afternoon entertainment is laidback and features festival favourite David Flower, two-time Golden Guitar Award Winner Brad Butcher, Indie Australian Folk Fusion JC and the Tree.
“We are incredibly excited to announce the dates and a glimpse of what’s in store for the 2025 Great Barrier Reef Festival,” Festival Committee Chair Margie Murphy said.
“This year’s lineup celebrates everything that makes the Whitsundays extraordinary, offering a unique blend of entertainment, community engagement, and a deep appreciation for our incredible Great Barrier Reef.
“We invite everyone to join us for a truly unforgettable experience.”
Whitsunday Regional Council Deputy Mayor Michelle Wright said The Great Barrier Reef Festival was one of the most vibrant celebrations on the region’s calendar, showcasing not just the stunning reef but the heart and spirit of the community.
“This festival brings locals and visitors together to share in what makes the Whitsundays truly special — our natural beauty, our creative energy, and our strong community pride,” Cr Wright said.
“Events like this are vital for supporting our local economy, inspiring community pride, and reminding us all why the Whitsundays is the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.”
Click for full program details
Contributed by the Great Barrier Reef Festival.
