Forest Hill to buzz with excitement for Bee Happy Day

Featuring a jam-packed program full of children’s activities, workshops, live entertainment, artisan markets, and scrumptious treats, this year’s Bee Happy Day will deliver a fun morning out for little ones and the young at heart.  

Held at the Forest Hill School of Arts from 8.30am-12pm on Sunday, 14 September, this sweet community celebration will serve as the grand finale to the 2025 Laidley Spring Festival. 

Highlights of this free family-friendly event include balloon twisting workshops, circus workshops, arts and crafts stations, face painting, performances by students from Move and Groove Dance School, and an all-in bubble disco to ensure the day finishes on a high note. 

Lockyer Valley Regional Council Mayor, Cr Tanya Milligan is urging families to make the most of their visit by staying longer and not missing this special fun-filled event. 

“There is always a real buzz in the air around Bee Happy Day – it’s a joyful way to bring families, locals, and visitors together for one final morning of fun, laughter, and local flavour,” Mayor Milligan said. 

“We have packed so many fun events into this event, and best of all, it’s free to attend, making it an affordable outing for people of all ages.  

“With Bee Happy Day wrapping up the Laidley Spring Festival, it’s a great opportunity to extend your stay in the Lockyer Valley and enjoy everything the festival and region has to offer.”  

Valerie Edwards from Top Choice Entertainments said the hands-on workshops will bring lots of smiles and laughter to the event.  

“Every child will have the chance to create their very own balloon hat - a fun and colourful activity that brings energy and excitement to the day,” Valerie said. 

“This activity is not only fun for all involved but also provides a stream of magical balloon colour to the event, all the while improving dexterity, focus and concentration as participants learn to twist and turn their balloons into colourful hats which they can wear with pride.

“There’s no need to register — we aim to keep the atmosphere relaxed and welcoming, so families can come and go as they please.” 

This year also marks the first appearance of Toowoomba-based creative studio Tinker Arts at Bee Happy Day. 

Studio Director Alex Stalling said the day is an opportunity for young creatives to explore their imagination in a fun environment. 

“This is Tinker’s inaugural Bee Happy Day, and we are excited! Spring, children, buzzing bees, and shared creativity are things that makes our creative hearts sing,” she said.  

“On the day, we will be offering three bee-inspired creative crafts for people to come and create with us – you can make a wooden bee wand, design a terracotta bee pot, and make a bee inspired piece of wearable art.”

Adding to the festive feel, around 20 market stalls will showcase a variety of handmade and homegrown goods. 

Market coordinator Gayle Daetz said this is a fantastic way to support local makers while picking up something special. 

“Visitors can browse everything from candles, clothing, and crochet items to books, children’s toys, and handcrafted wooden products created by the Lockyer Woodcrafters,” Gayle said.  

“There’ll also be homemade biscuits and slices, plus fresh local honey for sale.  

“After the event, we encourage everyone to explore Forest Hill’s lovely cafés and shops – it’s a great day out for the whole family.”  

If hunger strikes, a range of food vendors will be on hand serving up tasty favourites including potato twisters, pancakes, a barbecue, refreshing drinks, and freshly brewed coffee. 

For more information about the 2025 Laidley Spring Festival, including the full festival program, visit www.laidleyspringfestival.com and follow Laidley Spring Festival on Facebook.  

The Laidley Spring Festival is supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland.