THIS OCTOBER, the Rangebow Festival is asking people to venture to the hinterland to experience the Sunshine Coast’s most diverse arts festival.

From Nambour and up along the range to Maleny, there is something for everyone on offer with the festival boasting a unique and colourful programme featuring theatre, performance, cabaret, opera and live music, to name just some of the vast highlights.

Now in its fourth year, this not-for-profit festival continues to shine as a beacon of diversity, inclusion and creativity, with Festival Director Wayne Parcell excited with the depth on offer this year.

“Responding to community feedback, the 2025 festival includes new venues closer to the coast, with a greater focus on accessibility and broad audience appeal – there is absolutely no excuse not to make it to an event this year.”

Wayne said it was important for the festival to offer something very different.

“We pivoted this year and rebuilt the website, and we really want people to feel like they are going somewhere different and to also feel like they are part of the festival as well.”

One event designed to really get the crowd involved is ‘Remote Control’ – a quiz show-style event where laughs will be high on the agenda.

“We have some great people involved in this one, such as comedian Christian Hull, and there’s going to be prizes and lots of audience participation.

“We also have singing with the Sing Out Sister event, which is for women, and the Drag Pageant is another great event where people really get to go outside of their comfort zone.”

The Rangebow Festival is proud to receive funding support through the Sunshine Coast Council’s Emerging Events Initiative, aimed at nurturing new and innovative events that draw regional and national audiences.

“It’s fantastic to have the backing of the Sunshine Coast Council,” Wayne added.

“Support like this helps festivals like ours grow and highlight diversity and the hinterland region.”

The Rangebow Festival welcomes everyone, with a strong commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. Whether you’re a local or visiting from afar, this is an opportunity to experience the heart and soul of the Hinterland through a celebration of art, culture, identity and belonging.

Festival Highlights:
Sing Out Sister – an empowering, women-only music event where participants can belt out the tunes, free from judgment and wear whatever they want!
Remote Control – a side-splitting, game show-style event. Think of it as University Challenge meets Blind Date.
The Drag Pageant – expect outrageous outfits, jaw-dropping performances, and enough sass, sparkle, and support to light up the entire Rangebow Festival.

More info and tickets- https://therangebowfestival.org