Rangebow Festival brings colour, culture and community to the hinterland

The Sunshine Coast hinterland is set to burst with creativity and colour when The Rangebow Festival returns from Thursday 9 to Sunday 12 October, with a line-up of vibrant events across Nambour, Mapleton and Montville.

While the festival begins with the free Hot Mess Party at Kings Beach Amphitheatre on Saturday 27 September, the real heart of Rangebow will be found in the hinterland, where performances, markets and celebrations will showcase local talent and community spirit.

In Nambour, the festival takes over the Old Ambulance Station and Nambour Cinema & Events Centre with a mix of music, cabaret, drag and interactive fun. Highlights include Glowtopia Silent Disco, an all-ages dance party with glowing headsets where everyone can move to their own beat. Music fans can catch Every Breath You Take – Atomic Oz, a high-energy tribute to The Police, Sting and Blondie. Cabaret lovers won’t want to miss After Dinner Mintz, a one-night-only show of sequins, sass and powerhouse vocals.

The Nambour program concludes with Remote Control, a wild live gameshow finale hosted by Christian Hull and Ian “Dicko” Dickson, where audience members compete for cash prizes.

Mapleton will be buzzing on Saturday 11 October with two standout events. At Mapleton Hall, Oktoberfest at Rangebow will serve up authentic Bavarian food, beer and music in a night of festive fun, with proceeds supporting local charities. Earlier in the afternoon, Fish & Chips with Your Open Mic? invites locals to gather at Fishtales Seafood Café by the Lilyponds for live music and a relaxed, family-friendly vibe.

In Montville, art and nature take centre stage. Sacred Sonic at the Glasshouse Chapel blends classical music with immersive light displays in a unique setting, while Art with Heart at Little May Espresso features works by local artists living with disability, with proceeds going directly to the creators.

Families can join the Flora-Palooza tree planting at Russell Family Park, helping to plant 100 rainforest trees, or enjoy the playful chaos of the Pineapple Parfait Cup, a tennis and croquet showdown with a twist. The Montville Mega Market Day will bring fresh produce, handmade goods and live entertainment to the Village Green.

For something stylish, Sew Chic offers a sustainable fashion brunch at Fiorio & Co, while four-legged friends get their moment to shine at Doggy Styles, a canine fashion parade at Bark and Brew Pet Boutique.

• For full program details and tickets, visit www.therangebowfestival.org.