IPSWICH is set to come alive with light, colour and creativity as SPARK returns for its fifth year, from July 11-20.
The much-loved winter festival will feature more than 50 events over 10 days, transforming the city into a vibrant cultural playground.
This year’s program will include a special tribute to the Ipswich Civic Centre, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary. A major highlight will be the Carpark Party series, transforming the Civic Centre’s carpark into a pop-up live music venue across six nights.
One of the headline performers is local artist DAMIEN, who spoke to Local Ipswich News about the significance of being involved.
“The Civic Centre is the flagship venue for Ipswich and is the host of some of the biggest cultural activities to pass through our city,” he said.
“As a creative artist myself, it is a true honour to be included in the 50th anniversary celebrations.”
DAMIEN, who has long called Ipswich home, said the city held a special place in his heart, and events like SPARK offered a platform for local voices.
The artist also highlighted how SPARK helps broaden perceptions of Ipswich.
“I think when a lot of people think of Ipswich, they immediately think of more mechanical imagery such as Holden Commodores doing laps around Limestone St, or C-17s doing laps over the city, or the historical connection to Queensland Railway,” he said.
“These are certainly hallmarks of our city, but every community – even one built on the back of blue-collar workers – miners, railway workers, mechanics and tradespeople – has a cultural heartbeat that needs to be celebrated.”
He added that music and art provided deeper meaning and connection for both artists and audiences.
“… it is in the symbolic, spiritual and ideological space that I feel most at home.”
SPARK Ipswich 2025 promises a packed program for all ages. Highlights include delight – a nightly art projection experience lighting up Nicholas St; HEXADECA – an interactive musical playground; and The Bubble Canteen – a whimsical installation producing thousands of bubbles every minute.
The festival also marks the return of World of Music Ipswich (WOMI), bringing multicultural performances, food, and crafts to Springfield. Families can also look forward to Little Day Out, a sustainability-focused event featuring live music, creative workshops, and roving performers.
Last year’s festival drew over 45,000 people, and organisers hope to attract even more visitors in 2025.
For more information, visit sparkipswich.com.au.
