Storyfest Darling Downs

Storyfest Darling Downs is a regional extension of the renowned Somerset Storyfest, delivering a dynamic, one-day celebration of storytelling, literacy and creativity to the Toowoomba and wider Darling Downs community. Held at The Lighthouse Toowoomba, the festival brings together leading Australian authors, illustrators and creatives to engage young people, families and educators through an inspiring program of author talks, interactive workshops and live storytelling experiences.

As outlined in the 2026 programme, the festival is designed to "connect communities, ignite curiosity, and inspire young minds" through the power of stories. It features a diverse line-up of acclaimed storytellers delivering sessions tailored to different age groups, alongside hands-on workshops that encourage creativity, confidence and self-expression.

In addition to the main event, Storyfest Darling Downs extends its reach through On the road... school visits across the region, ensuring greater accessibility and impact for students who may not otherwise attend.

At its core, Storyfest Darling Downs is a community-focused cultural event that promotes a lifelong love of reading and writing while supporting educational outcomes. By bringing high-quality literary experiences to a regional audience, it strengthens local engagement, fosters creativity and contributes to the cultural vitality of the Darling Downs.