Looking for a magical Queensland school holidays escape? Pack up the kids and head to Maryborough this July 2026 for the spectacular Mary Poppins Festival. This free family event celebrates the birthplace of P.L. Travers with chimney sweep races, a grand parade, and an official world record costume attempt Brisbane families will love.
Mary Poppins Festival 2026
Join the fun at the 2026 Mary Poppins Festival! Held in the heritage streets of Maryborough, the birthplace of Mary Poppins creator P.L. Travers, this much-loved annual event is a celebration of storytelling, imagination, and a little bit of magic. The riverside parks and historic Portside Precinct come alive with characters, colour, and that “practically perfect” energy that keeps people coming back year after year.
Program Highlights
There’s something for everyone across literature, art, music, and culture:
The Great Nanny Challenge – One of the festival’s quirkiest and most popular events, watch nannies race through the streets pushing prams and cheer on your favourite to the finish line.
Chimney Sweep Dash – Brushes in hand and heels clicking, the chimney sweeps go head to head in one of the most entertaining races of the weekend.
Grand Parade – The highlight of the festival, a colourful procession of floats, characters, and performers winding through the streets.
World Record Attempt & Costume Competition – Dress up as Mary, Bert, the Banks children, a chimney sweep, or any Poppins favourite and take part in the costume judging or the official character count.
Creative Storytelling – Pavement art, hands-on workshops, and live entertainment honouring the legacy of P.L. Travers.
Market Stalls & Street Food – Browse handcrafted goods, toys, and treats, or grab a bite from one of the many local food vendors.
Take a picnic blanket or chairs as there’s no allocated seating. The event is held in accessible parklands and is great for all ages. And while you’re in town, make sure you stop into The Story Bank, an interactive museum housed in the very building where P.L. Travers was born.
Plan your visit
When: Sunday 5th July 2026, 9am – 3pm
Where: Portside Precinct & Queens Park, Maryborough 4179
Cost: Free
More information: here
