Mark your calendars! Cairns Festival returns from 23 August to 1 September, promising a feast for the senses.
Last year, over 140,000 attendees enjoyed a variety of events across our vibrant city, from immersive lighting installations to live music, fireworks, and art exhibitions.
Spanning 10 days and multiple venues, Mayor Amy Eden emphasised the festival’s significance to the city.
“Whether you are a local or a visitor, Cairns Festival is a great opportunity to celebrate our vibrant Tropical North Queensland city and everything that makes it so unique,” Cr Eden said.
“Over the past six decades, the festival has grown into a staple fixture on the regional Queensland events calendar, drawing thousands of people to our city.
From the colour and fanfare of the Grand Parade and the spectacular Reef Lights at the Esplanade Lagoon to world-class music, theatre and art exhibitions, and you have a feast to awaken your senses.”
Festival Highlights:
Opening Night and Welcome to Country: Kick off the festival on Friday 23 August with a free opening night and Welcome to Country event headlined by Christine Anu at the Court House Gallery.
Grand Parade: Join the community street party on Saturday 24 August, where the colour and diversity of our tropical city will be on full display.
Reef Lights: Experience the return of the mesmerising Reef Lights at the Esplanade Lagoon from Friday 23 August, featuring projections by Indigenous Design Labs.
Cairns Performing Arts Centre: Enjoy contemporary theatre including Fourteen by Shannon Molloy (23 August), Wayfinder by Dancenorth (30-31 August), and Adrift by Counterpilot (29 August – 1 September).
Live Music: Enjoy performances by Jebediah, Magic Dirt, Christine Anu, Eves Karydas, Z-Star, Jacotene, and more at various venues including Tanks Arts Centre and Court House Gallery.
Carnival on Collins: Don’t miss the family-friendly Carnival on Collins on Sunday 1 September, featuring market stalls, food, entertainment, and activities.
Float Registrations:
Community and cultural groups, schools, and sporting clubs are reminded that float registrations for the Grand Parade close on Friday 26 July. This year’s Grand Parade, set to attract over 25,000 spectators along the Esplanade, promises a vibrant showcase of colour, cultures, and traditions. Participation is free, with a chance to win a share of $7000 in prizes.
