More than 250 mystifying performers will showcase their out-of-this-world skills at a massive busking festival on the Sunshine Coast.
The award-winning Buskers By The Lake will return to Lake Kawana from Friday, August 19, to Sunday, August 21, with an exciting line-up of local and interstate performers.
This year’s theme is ‘Fantasyland’.
From record-breaking stunts to sideshow sensations, contortionists to world-class musicians, there won’t be a dull moment.
Regarded as a sun-soaked, family-friendly extravaganza, festival-goers can look forward to strolling along the lake while supporting their favourite buskers.
Organisers have worked to keep ticket prices low, to encourage tipping, which will go directly to the artists.
Australia’s most prolific sideshow performer, The Space Cowboy, will serve up his death-defying show, featuring sword swallowing, chainsaw juggling and unicycle knife throwing.
Tasmania’s stretchy and freaky sweet-heart of sideshow, Samora Squid is ready to turn heads with his unique blend of contortion, sword-swallowing and punk singing.
Multi-award winning circus performer, Hannah Cryle will run circles around crowds as she spins, rolls and contorts herself through a giant metal ring.
Internationally-acclaimed break dance crew, Floorlegendz will touch down from Sydney to show off their edgy power moves.
Those seeking a dose of music, dance and art can experience all three as Gold Coast artist Anthony Pieters mesmerises with his unique craft.
Making its triumphant and highly-requested return to Buskers by the Lake is the iconic floating half-pipe, set to come alight with a spectacular fire finale at sunset, courtesy of pyro professors Energy Entertainment.
A feast for all the senses, Buskers by the Lake is set to tantalise those tastebuds with the crowd-favourite Enchanted and Bohemian Bars, as well as a roster of delicious festival eats.
There will also be selection of sideshows.
Find a new favourite muso as the country’s best emerging singer-songwriters go head to head at Battle of the Buskers, which has previously been won by Aussie fave Tones and I.
Thrillseekers and adrenaline junkies can catch the death-defying and side-splitting cabaret, ‘Deja Voodoo – Resurrection’.
Revel in the 18+ Sundowner Celebration on Saturday and Sunday evenings, as the festival’s Enchanted Bar transforms into a party paradise.
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Festival Organiser Cindy Jensen said Buskers by the Lake has overwhelming support from the community.
“We wouldn’t be celebrating our ninth year if it wasn’t for the support of our sponsors and partners and it’s because of them that we can continue to welcome a sea of smiles come show day.”
The festival was held at the Gold Coast before moving to the Sunshine Coast last year.
Sunshine Coast Council Portfolio Councillor Jason O’Pray said Buskers By The Lake was a great attraction for visitors to plan a week or long weekend to enjoy the Sunshine Coast and experience some eclectic, creative and authentic entertainment.
“This festival appeals to such a wide attendee demographic, where inclusivity and diversity have a strong emphasis from both a performer and attendee perspective,” he said.
“We want to be the region where bright new talent is discovered, with the event being a launching pad for young and budding performers.”
Buskers by the Lake is partnering with The Starlight Foundation, donating 10 per cent of ticket proceeds to the not-for-profit.
“We also want to create happiness for those who are unable to make it lakeside,” Ms Jensen said.
“The Starlight Foundation has been a charity of choice of mine for many years, so this partnership made total sense.”
For a short time only, festival organisers will be waving their magic wands and granting early-bird weekend passes for the price of single day tickets.
For the full three-day program and to secure your tickets visit Buskers By The Lake.
