Mardi Gras Festival
The word "Mardi Gras" traditionally means merrymaking
and that is exactly what the people of the Central Coast have been
doing for the past 45 years. The Tuggerah Lakes Mardi Gras Festival
is held the first full weekend in December each year, however this
hasn't always been the case.
Prior to 1985 the Mardi Gras was held in November each year but
always seemed to bring rain. The festival committee made a request
to a local man who had religiously kept records of weather patterns
for 40 years. It was asked which weekend around November and December
displayed the most settled weather and thus the change to early
December. The Tuggerah Lakes Mardi Gras was renowned for kicking
off the tourist season with a bang, so a weekend of fine weather
was important.
Each year, The Entrance plays host to the Tuggerah Lakes Mardi
Gras. It is a combination of fine entertainment, events and other
colourful additions which alter from year to year. The Memorial
Park is the ideal venue for where families take time out to enjoy
the first class program.
Queen Competition
A highlight of the festival is the annual crowning of the Mardi
Gras Queen and runner up. In 1985 this competition underwent a
change of face when it became a sponsored event. This lifted the
image and also the number of competitors. The change proved most
successful, and there are many individuals who have fond memories
of their time as a Mardi Gras Queen entrant. There are those who
have their name on the Honour Roll as winners.
The Tuggerah Lakes Mardi Gras Festival is a success
story. From humble beginnings it now boasts one of the largest
parades outside
of Sydney and Newcastle. This is no mean feat, for what was once
a small sleepy seaside town.
The original concept behind the festival was to raise funds for
local charities, however, it's character has altered and it has
now become a major tourist attraction conducted by the Tuggerah
Lakes Mardi Gras Festival Committee. The committee is made up of
a dedicated body of local residents, with a common aim to promote
tourism and provide first class family entertainment for the local
community.
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How
it all Began
