The time honoured Macrossan Street Parade, a staple of Port Douglas Carnivale celebrations, is set to kick off the 10-day festival with registrations now open for floats. 

Carnivale general manager Roy Weavers said he anticipated more than 70 floats taking part in the signature event which is expected to attract more than 5,000 visitors to the region.

The creative flair of community groups submitting floats always kept the event fresh, Mr Weavers said. 

"We are excited to see what businesses and other organisations will do with this," he said.  

Revellers can expect major changes to the parade this year, Mr Weavers said. 

"Port FM will be playing through the waves with Kim Hurley as MC," he said. 

"It is going to be light, bright and full of music, with street decorations and fairy lights to help create a Carnivale atmosphere." 

One of the highlights of this year's annual street parade will be the street theatre, with crowds entertained by  mono cyclists, juggling acts and magicians.

"There is going to be lots of surprises at this year’s parade," Mr Weavers said. 

"It will set the tone for the festival and the opening weekend, which has a number of great family activities including the Four Mile Beach Day on Saturday and the Backyard Games on Sunday." 

Mr Weavers urged anyone considering entering the parade to get their registrations in as soon as possible.   

Miss Carnivale, Katie Brown, will lead the Street Parade this year.

Quicksilver, GBR Helicopters,  Raine & Horne, Port Douglas Radio, Soul Song, and Cycle Safety are just some of the groups already signed up, and in the running for the Best Float. 

$1000 in prize money will be awarded for Best Overall Float. 

For more information on the street parade and volunteering contact Sylvia Healy on 0417 867 268 or email info@carnivale.com.au.