Tropic Weekender: Our guide to the best events and things to do in Cairns
The long weekend beckons and although many have no doubt hit the road, there's still plenty on around town to help you let loose, recover, then do it all again.
And if you're looking for even more to do check out our Guide to Art Exhibitions, or discover the Cairns and Tablelands market scene.
Wednesday 5 April
The first exhibition for UMI Arts of the year, You & Me features new artworks from 14 First Nations artists, both emerging and established, from Cairns, Yarrabah, and the Northern Peninsula Area. The exhibition showcases 30 pieces across a range of styles and mediums, including painting on canvas, prints on paper, ceramic, weaving, and multimedia sculptures. Running until 5 May, visitors have the opportunity to make purchases and support local creators.
Thursday 6 April
The 5Five and End Credits Film Club are hosting a screening of a 1926 Japanese silent film A Page of Madness with a live score by Mike Cooper from the UK. The film was rediscovered by its director in 1971 and was created by an avant-garde group of artists called Shinkankakuha. It was originally shown in Tokyo in 1926 with live narration and musical accompaniment.
Friday 7 April
The Cairns Choral Society is hosting the 95th North Queensland Eisteddfod over this Easter weekend, coinciding with their 100th Anniversary. Musicians from across the region are competing in various categories, including Choral, Pop, Jazz, Folk, and more. The event also features solo and group performances, including Cabaret and Musical Theatre sections on Saturday evening.
Saturday 8 April
Sub-Merge returns with a new performance space featuring legendary ‘post everything’ music artist Mike Cooper and a spectrum of experimental performances, music, and visual media. The event also features local artists Tegan Koster Project, Gumlu, Rebecca Youdell, File_Error and Wendy Mocke. On at The 5Five, the event aims to elevate fresh and bold works and will showcase a variety of genres and styles.
The NYX Launch Party is on at Skypark Cairns with psychedelic heavyweights Morten Granau and Phaxe. The event showcases various audio artists such as AudioPirate, Bent Intent, Chunkadelic, Electronic Isolation, Flow-tek, Fun Bizness, Grez, and Hard D. You'll also get to enjoy aerial performances and have the opportunity to get amongst the bungee jump and giant swing.
The So Fresh 2000's Bratz Party is kicking off its national tour at The Jack. Featuring hits from the Bratz Soundtrack and 2000's music all night long, enjoy Bratz-themed everything with drinks, a drag performance, doll giveaways, free glitter bar, and more. If you haven't guessed yet, the dress code is Bratz, and it's very heavily encouraged you get involved.
Head to Elixir Music House for an exciting evening of Jazz and Groove, and some improv. Dylan Russell and nationally renowned saxophonist Mike Rivett, are teaming up for a show performing original and classics with a talented rhythm section of Josh Holt and Joe Vizzone on drums.
Bad Bunny Mansion is back at Gillies with non-stop music and entertainment. Two floors of pumping tunes from guest and resident DJs, along with face and body painters, Hush Honey dancers, live music, prizes for best dressed, giveaways, and a lucky door prize.
Sunday 9 April
The Chambers is hosting an Easter Bottomless High Tea to spice up your morning. Enjoy sweet and savoury Easter-themed treats along with a 2-hour bottomless mimosa drink package to celebrate the long weekend.
Enjoy an Easter Lunch Cruise aboard the Spirit of Cairns, complete with complimentary welcome drinks and stunning views of the Cairns Marina and waterfront. Keep the kids entertained with Easter activities and a lucky door prize while you indulge in an extensive wine, beer, and cocktail menu on this luxurious sailing catamaran.
Head to Hemingway's at Cairns Wharf for the ultimate long weekend Sunday Sesh and make the most of the sunshine, holiday vibes, and live jams by Dani Bani.
