Sweet Days Hot Nights Festival

Experience the sights, sounds and flavours of the world at the Burdekin Cultural Fair featuring First Fire. This vibrant celebration showcases the cultures that make the Burdekin such a special place to call home through international cuisines, interactive activities and captivating performances. Enjoy music, dance and traditions from across the globe before witnessing one of the region's most iconic traditions, the lighting of the First Fire of the sugar cane crushing season. Watch as flames illuminate the cane paddock, filling the night sky with a warm glow, the crackling sound of fire and the unmistakable sweet scent of burning sugar cane.

 

Day two delivers a uniquely Australian experience packed with competition, heritage and country hospitality. At the heart of the action is the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships, where competitors battle for the coveted title of Australian Hand Cane Cutting Champion and thousands of dollars in prize money. Step into a burnt cane paddock and witness the grit, determination and skill required in one of Australia's toughest traditional occupations, as competitors race against the clock in a spectacular display of strength, endurance and precision. Beyond the competition, visitors can explore vintage machinery displays, enjoy live music, browse market stalls and indulge in great food and refreshments. Don't miss the Canefield Cook Off, where barbecue teams battle for bragging rights and the chance to impress the judges with their best smoked and slow-cooked creations.

 

Across the weekend, the festival comes alive with delicious food, live entertainment, cultural experiences, competitions and family-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's plenty for the kids to do with free entertainment, face painting, rides, arts and crafts, a petting zoo and more, while adults can browse market stalls, explore vintage machinery displays, enjoy refreshments from the fully stocked bar and soak up the festival atmosphere.