Time to party

THE Tropical Fruits’ New Year’s Eve festival, Galore ’24, is expected to attract up to 2000 people to Lismore for an event celebrating the LGBTIQ+ community.

The Lismore Showground will be home to up to 1000 campers starting December 28 and will host four dance parties, an arts festival, fireworks, and a recovery party over four days.

The Tropical Fruits New Year’s Eve party has been held in Lismore for almost 30 years, becoming one of the biggest LGBTIQ+ events in regional Australia.

Performers at Tropical Fruits New Year’s Eve Party 2023. Photo: SUPPLIED

A welcoming, inclusive atmosphere in the town contributed to the event’s ongoing popularity, Tropical Fruits general manager Alex Torney said.

“It shows an enduring dedication to ensuring the LGBTIQ+ community has this safe, inclusive and embracing environment in which to celebrate,” Torney said.

While major music festivals had folded this year, they said the Tropical Fruits New Year’s Eve Festival was less at risk as it was smaller and less prone to ticket sale uncertainty.

However, Torney expected the event to sell out, as it usually does.

“It’s looking positive. We have a large community of people who have been coming to the event and feel how special it is. There’s loyalty at play that gives us an edge,” they said.

The cabaret, with its “exciting and diverse performers” was a highlight for Torney, and they were looking forward to the art and culture festival.

The New Year’s Eve Party on December 31 will feature top-shelf dance music with state-of-the-art sound and lighting design across two main stages.

Live music will play in the main bar, and there’s a Sensorium chill zone for those who need some quiet time.

The traditional Pool Party is on January 1 at the Lismore Memorial Baths, followed by the Recovery Party in the evening, featuring the Next Day Cabaret.