🦐 Celebrating 30 Years of Community Spirit: The 30th Annual Prawn Day Returns Bigger Than Ever!

There are community events — and then there’s Prawn Day. For three decades, this iconic local celebration has brought together business leaders, families, students, and seafood lovers alike in a day brimming with laughter, great food, and generosity. And in 2026, the tradition continues stronger than ever with the 30th Annual Prawn Day, set to take place on Friday, 27th March 2026.

Prawn Day isn’t just about indulging in the freshest local prawns (though that’s certainly part of the fun). It’s about giving back — a vibrant showcase of community spirit and collaboration that raises vital funds for local charities and community groups. Last year’s event alone brought in over $16,000, with more than 600 people turning out to enjoy the festivities, connect with others, and make a difference.

This milestone year promises to be the biggest and best yet, with live entertainment, a legendary prawn peeling competition, and networking opportunities galore — all wrapped up in a relaxed, coastal-inspired atmosphere that captures the very heart of Beenleigh and the surrounding region.

The first Prawn Day was a humble affair — a small community gathering that sought to bring local business owners together for an afternoon of camaraderie and good food. But over the past thirty years, it’s grown into something truly special: a must-attend annual highlight that celebrates the best of the Beenleigh–Yatala community.

Hosted proudly by the Beenleigh Yatala Chamber of Commerce (BYCC), Prawn Day has evolved into both a celebration and a cause. Year after year, it shines a spotlight on the spirit of giving, supporting charities that make a real difference in people’s lives. Whether it’s funding youth programs, helping local families in need, or supporting community development projects, the proceeds from Prawn Day stay right here in the region — strengthening the very community that makes the event possible.

As Chamber President Kerrie Saverin puts it:

“Prawn Day isn’t just an event — it’s a celebration of who we are. It’s about local businesses coming together, students learning valuable skills, and everyone doing their bit to give back. The energy, the food, the laughter — it’s what community is all about.”

One of the most exciting aspects of Prawn Day is the hands-on involvement of Beenleigh State High School and Windaroo Valley State High School hospitality students.

Under the expert guidance of the Distillery Road Market (DRM) team, these talented future chefs and hospitality students will help deliver a seamless dining experience — preparing, plating, and serving guests with professionalism and flair.

For the students, Prawn Day is more than just an event; it’s a real-world opportunity to put their classroom learning into practice in a live hospitality setting. It’s about gaining confidence, honing teamwork skills, and seeing firsthand how food and service can bring people together.

While the cause behind Prawn Day is serious — raising money for those in need — the event itself is anything but solemn. It’s a lively, laughter-filled celebration that captures the essence of Queensland fun.

Guests can look forward to:

• Live Entertainment: The vibe is relaxed and festive, with the kind of good-natured atmosphere that encourages people to unwind, dance a little, and truly enjoy themselves.
  
• The Famous Prawn Peeling Competition: A fan favourite every year, this friendly showdown pits guests against one another to see who can peel their prawns the fastest (and cleanest!). Equal parts hilarious and competitive, the competition is a must-watch spectacle that never fails to draw cheers and laughter from the crowd.
  
• Networking Opportunities Galore: Beyond the food and fun, Prawn Day is a golden opportunity for business networking. Attendees include local business owners, industry leaders, community members, and elected representatives — all gathered in a relaxed environment that encourages genuine connection. Deals are made, partnerships are forged, and ideas are exchanged — often over a plate of fresh prawns and a cool drink.
  

Whether you’re there to network, support a great cause, or simply enjoy the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone at Prawn Day.

If you’ve been to Prawn Day before, you know that tickets are hot property. Last year’s event sold out in just 13 days, and with this being the 30th Anniversary Celebration, demand is expected to be even higher.

Here’s how to make sure you don’t miss out:

• Pre-sale for Beenleigh Yatala Chamber of Commerce Members:
  Tickets go on sale Monday, 12th January 2026 exclusively for BYCC members. This early-access window is one of the many benefits of Chamber membership and ensures that local businesses and community leaders can secure their spots early.
  
• Public Ticket Release:
  Tickets open to the general public on Monday, 19th January 2026. If you’re not a Chamber member, mark the date and set a reminder — because once they’re gone, they’re gone!
  

Every ticket includes access to all-day entertainment, incredible food, and the satisfaction of supporting local charities. It’s an investment in community, connection, and celebration.

www.prawnday.com.au