The Burdekin’s Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival has been named as one of the best Festivals or Events in the country after receiving Silver at the Grey Nomad Awards.
Hosted in Home Hill from May 26-27, 2023, the biennial festival showcases and celebrates the rich agricultural lifestyle of the Burdekin, with highlights including the first cane fire of the season and the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships.
Burdekin Shire Council Chief Executive Officer Terry Brennan said being awarded and recognised on a national scale is a significant achievement for the festival and the entire region.
“The 2023 Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival achieved great success with the support of dedicated volunteers who generously contributed their time in the lead up to the festival and during the two-day event,” Mr Brennan said.
“The support from local businesses through sponsorship and the active participation of the local community played a crucial role in making the festival one of Australia’s best festivals.
“(The award) not only highlights the shire’s destination appeal to grey nomad travellers, but also raises the profile of the community across Australia.”
The Grey Nomad Awards shines a light on the best places for older travellers to stay and play around the country.
The Awards are judged by tourism leaders from across the country who offer valuable insights and detailed feedback to each entrant, ensuring nominees have practical tips to improve their tourism offering for the future benefit of their business, their community and visitors.
Mr Brennan said the 2023 Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival attracted over 4,000 attendees over the weekend with 70% attendees from the Burdekin region while the remaining 30% visited from out of town.
“Its uniqueness draws in a diverse crowd, from those who wish to immerse themselves in cultural performances to spectators keen to witness a cane field set alight for the First Fire,” he said.
“Spectators and participants are also passionate about keeping our sugar cane heritage alive at the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships.
“The Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival is set to grow even more in 2025, attracting more out of region visitors, offering an exciting entertainment program, and fostering greater community engagement.”
The Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival will return from Friday May 30 to Saturday May 31, 2025.
Follow @sweetdayshotnights on Facebook and Instagram to receive the latest festival announcements and updates.
Caption: Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival received the Best Festival or Event in Australia Silver Award in the 2023 Grey Nomad Awards. Photo supplied
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