Tropic Weekender: Our guide to the best events and things to do in Cairns

Get ready for an exciting week in Cairns filled with a diverse range of events and experiences. From conferences focusing on sustainable tourism to immersive music shows and cultural celebrations, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're interested in exploring creative pathways, indulging in delicious food, or embracing the spirit of different cultures, we have options for you.

If you're after something else, discover the Cairns and Tablelands market scenes, there's a few on this weekend to get amongst. And don't forget to stay up to date with our Guide to art exhibitions and events.

Wednesday 31 May

Cairns State High School presents Nice Work If You Can Get It, a hilarious modern twist on a 1920s musical farce. Follow the adventures of a wealthy playboy entangled with bootleggers, with madcap antics, unlikely romance, and timeless Gershwin classics. Don't miss this entertaining and award-winning production! Showing through to Friday at CPAC.

My Queensland TNQ Tourism Conference offers a full day of future-focused ideas and discussions led by experienced speakers in the tourism industry. With a focus on accessible tourism and international recovery, the conference highlights sustainable travel and First Nations tourism. Connect with industry professionals, local suppliers, and the TTNQ.

Thursday 1 June

Dream Big - Young Creatives Lab explores the worlds of street theatre, busking, and MC-ing. Discover the unique skill set and charisma required for these creative pathways, as well as the inspiring stories. The event includes a Q&A session and provides an opportunity to share your own  ideas and receive feedback and advice.

Head to Miss Chief Bar & Eatery for their monthly Yum Cha Emporium. Make the most of their dumplings and usual signature suspects, and of course their cocktail menu. Indulge your taste buds for $59, including a glass of house wine or selected beer, bookings are essential.

Friday 2 June

Get ready for an unforgettable night as the world's #1 INXS show, Don't Change - Ultimate INXS, hits the Edge Hill Tavern as part of their latest tour. Known for their authenticity, this tribute production flawlessly captures the energy and passion of INXS while playing all the classics and favourites.

Sing along Schunkeln and enjoy Schnapps this June-TOBERFEST at the German Club! Dress up in your Lederhose or Dirndl and get ready for a fun-filled Bavarian night. Enjoy delicious food, lively music, and dance to popular tunes like the Fliegerlied and YMCA.

Saturday 3 June

The Rewind 80's Mixtape Tour is on at CPAC and taking you back to the nostalgic era of the 1980s. With two energetic party sets featuring iconic hits from artists like David Bowie, Madonna, and Guns N' Roses, guests can expect an immersive celebration of 80's nostalgia. So grab your legwarmers and teased hair for a night of music and fashion.

Regurgitator is embarking on a nationwide tour, Units - 25 Years of Unit in One Electric Stream of Sound and Colour, to celebrate their 1997 album. They will perform the album in full, along with other hit songs and support from Indie-rock legends Custard. Get ready for a high-energy show filled with rock, punk, funk, and surprises from two iconic bands at The Tanks.

Head to The Sunflower Farm in Atherton for an event focused on healthy soil, healthy people, and healthy profits for the Soil to Food Conference. Connect with farmers and industry experts to explore innovative ideas promoting soil health and its positive impacts. If you're in the industry, don't miss the opportunity to enhance farming practices and network with like-minded individuals.

The Cairns African Festival is on at Fogarty Park celebrating Africa Day and the International Day of the African Child. The event features free African drum workshops, craft and charity stalls, African food, a fashion parade, and incredible performances. The day is followed by an afterparty at Bar 94.

The Pandamonium Big Night Out is back at The Panda Room! Featuring three debut acts and two crowd favourites. Enjoy performances by The Bobby Maguire Band, The Raconteurs, The Brazilians, Solvol, and Snakoyl. Limited to 150 tickets only.

Sunday 4 June

Cairns EcoFiesta returns for another year featuring music, food, workshops, and an environmental expo. Held in Munro Martin Parklands, the free-entry event offers a vibrant celebration of eco-conscious living with a lineup of bands, green tech, food, and family fun.

Head to Smoky Pete's + Funky (B)Eats at Caffiend's 14th birthday pop-up party! Enjoy a backyard BBQ with amazing food, music, and good vibes. Secure your spot with a $20 ticket (includes $20 to spend) or risk a walk in. Don't miss out on the delicious smoked meats that made Caffiend famous during lockdown.

Spacey Jane is gearing up for big Sunday sesh with an unforgettable evening at Gillies. Proving popular, although tickets are all sold out, you can jump on the waitlist just in case.