Port Douglas, 15th January 2014 - It will be a celebration to remember as the countdown begins to the annual Port Douglas Carnivale as it marks its 20th milestone year.

Port Douglas Carnivale will be held across 10 days from May 16 to 25 and is recognised as one of North Queensland’s largest cultural and food celebrations attracting more than 20,000 people from across region as well as Australia wide.

Carnivale general manager Roy Weavers said all the magic of Carnivale would be brought to life as the region celebrated the very foundations of this event.

"Carnivale 2014 is shaping up to be the best ever. The first weekend has exploded with raft of new events including the Carnivale Garden Games on Sunday.  This new event will complement the Saturday Family Beach Day, rounding out the weekend with even more free fun for the family.”

Mr Weavers said revellers could also expect the return of some of Carnivale’s favourite events such as the Sheraton Mirage Longest Lunch and the annual Street Parade, which will kick off official proceedings on Friday, May 16.

"The biggest growth for Carnivale has been the midweek activities leading through to the now legendary second weekend, which incorporates the Zinc Chandon Luncheon, Taste of Paradise, Palates of Port and the Seafood Extravaganza.

“These are sophisticated food events to tempt every taste and sate every wine palate,” he said.

Adding to the Carnivale mix will once again celebrity appearances, yacht racing, fashion, comedy and more.

However, Mr Weavers said there was plenty of room for more and has urged the local community to contact the Carnivale team if they would like to submit an independent event to be included in the program.

“We are planning a lot of different things to do over the 10 days, so if there are any local businesses, community groups or individuals that have a great idea for an event, please contact us.”

Mr Weavers, who took on the role of general manager in November last year to help spearhead an events initiative for the Douglas region, said there was still a lot more planning to do but people could expect some surprises to the Carnivale program.

"I have been an advocate of event tourism for many years now and the opportunity I have as general manager of Carnivale 2014 is a dream come true. The 20th anniversary of Carnivale is going to be a huge celebration and a pat on the back for the Douglas region. I hope the founders are proud of just how far this community event has come, having grown into something that is recognised not only in Australia but also internationally.”

As the program is confirmed the latest information will be on the web site www.carnivale.com.au and any ideas for independent events should be emailed to roy@carnivale.com.au