Celebrating pride and inclusion as hundreds flock to Tropical Fruits festival

TROPICAL Fruits attracted hundreds of people to the region for a week-long celebration of arts, music and inclusion in the LGBTIQ+ community.

The festival, which has been running for almost 40 years, began as a small social group hosting a local New Year’s Eve celebration and has since evolved into a multi-day program featuring parties, performances and creative workshops.

About 2000 people attended the main New Years Eve party this year with more than half camping at the Lismore showground.

“It was very successful right across the board; we had a great program this year and the cabaret performances were phenomenal,” event co-ordinator Guy Grey said.

“There were a few tough years with bushfires and the pandemic, but we had a bit of a relaunch in 2023, and we’ve really got that momentum back again now.”

The festival has a dedicated group of about nine volunteers with Space Cadets the theme of the New Year’s Eve party.

Celebrations continued with another 1000 people attending the pool party at the memorial baths before the program concluded on Sunday, January 4.

“People really get into the theme and the outfits are incredible,” Grey said.

“There was a space theme 20 years ago, so it was cool to look back on that and see how far we’ve come.

“The pool party is back in full swing; it’s always a hot ticket item and the staff there have been fantastic with their support.”

The festival also secured funding through the state government’s arts and culture program.

“Tropical Fruits has such a great reputation, and we really want to enhance that by adding more arts and activities,” Grey said.

“Our signature events are as popular as ever and we have a great relationship with council and the community.

“Adding more to the program really enriches the experience and people head home with a sense of fulfillment.”