Grafton businesses receive blooming boosts during Jacaranda Festival

Emma Pritchard

As the petals continue to fall from the jacaranda trees throughout Grafton, the local business community is reflecting on the tremendous success of the 2023 Grafton Jacaranda Festival.

Record crowds attended the event this year, with many first-time visitors so enthralled by the colourful festivities and attractions, they are already planning their return in 2024 and have booked their accommodation 12 months in advance.

Brisbane visitors John and Gayle Costigan revealed they cannot wait to visit Grafton again and go back to their “newly discovered favourite cafes”.

“We ate breakfast at Toast in Prince Street a couple of times, and we also visited Hanks and Heart and Soul Wholefood Café, which have become our new favourite destinations in Grafton,” they said.

“We always support local cafes and small businesses when we travel.

“As tourists, I think it’s our role to give them a bit of a financial boost.”

President of the Grafton Chamber of Commerce Carol Pachos described the 2023 Grafton Jacaranda Festival as “one of the best festivals yet.”

“This festival, and indeed the whole jacaranda season, has a significant impact on Grafton businesses, not only bringing the tourist dollar into town, but visitors from across our own Clarence Valley who also bring a boost to local businesses,” she said.

“We had a fantastic response to the ‘Go Floral’ business competition with so many in the local business community decorating their businesses for the jacaranda season.

“Knowing the positive economic impact that the jacaranda season can bring to a business, I would challenge businesses to start planning now how they will make the most from the jacaranda season in 2024 as we celebrate the 90th anniversary of the Grafton Jacaranda Festival.”