Emma Pritchard, Clarence Valley Independent

The phenomenal beauty of the blossoming jacaranda trees in See Park, Grafton, is an extraordinary sight to behold during the day.

And their astonishing colours will once again light up the night sky during the 2022 Grafton Jacaranda Festival.

From October 20 until November 10, the famous trees will be illuminated between 7:30-10:30pm every evening, creating a magical masterpiece of dazzling lights and breathtaking natural beauty.

First launched in 2021, the event encourages locals and tourists to wander through See Park after dark and enjoy a twilight picnic or relaxing visit with friends and family members under a canopy of glowing purple flowers.

It is also aimed at expanding tourism throughout Grafton while providing an economic boost for local businesses.

This year, the event will also feature live entertainment each Thursday, Friday and Saturday night with popular Northern Rivers band The Ninth Chapter and soloist Marc Daley headlining the performances.

Food vans and refreshment stalls will also be set up in See Park.

During the opening night on October 20, the Clarence Valley Conservatorium’s Jazz Ensemble and Concert Band will collaborate with Ashley Albert Performing Arts to deliver a mesmerising show for the public between 7-10pm.

Following the events incredible success last year, Jacaranda Festival Manager Mark Blackadder said he is thrilled the jacarandas in See Park will be illuminated again in 2022.

The event is a Clarence Valley Council (CVC) project, with local business Summertime Electrical and Security contracted to install the lighting in the popular recreational area.

Giant kewpie doll Jacaranda Jill will once again take her place under the flowering jacaranda trees and remain on public display for the duration of the event.

Next weeks Independent will be a special Jacaranda Festival edition.

This article appeared in the Clarence Valley Independent, 19 October 2022.