The Katoomba CBD was packed to the max for the 24th Winter Magic Festival on Saturday.
Under sunny, blue skies, there were scores of costumes and characters and roving performers on display as people lined the streets to sample yummy food from the Katoomba St stalls and eagerly await the grand parade from 11.30am.
More than 500 colourful entrants participated in the parade, which featured everything from drummers to drag queens, to Fursuiters, dancers, political groups, and hula hoopers.
Green, earthy costumes were a feature as the theme of this year’s festival was the connection between mother earth and the winter solstice. People were also inspired to think about what magic meant to them.
The grand parade had an extended route this year travelling from Waratah Street, winding its way up Katoomba Street, before turning into Main Street, past the station and into Parke, before finishing at the back of the Carrington. Live music continued throughout the day on the main stage by the Carrington and at venues around Katoomba. After the 6pm fireworks, Dragon were the final act of the night on the main stage.
Billed as the largest community street event in Australia, the event is run by a crew of dedicated volunteers.