Cairns is set to come alive as Cairns Festival 2026 returns from 28 August to 6 September, bringing more than 50 events across the city, including 49 free experiences spanning music, art, theatre, light installations, family activities and community celebrations.
With Cairns marking its 150th anniversary this year, the Festival offers residents and visitors even more reasons to explore the city, discover something new and connect with their community.
1. Wander through Canvas of Cairns
The much-loved Canvas of Cairns will once again transform the Esplanade into an outdoor gallery of light, projection and storytelling.
Created specifically for Cairns, the installations celebrate the city's past, present and future while reimagining familiar public spaces through light, sound and creativity.
2. Experience the return of the Grand Parade
The popular Grand Parade returns to the Esplanade on Saturday 29 August with a nostalgic Fun in the Sun theme to celebrate Cairns' 150th anniversary.
Expect colourful floats, community groups, performers and plenty of family-friendly entertainment.
3. Celebrate local creativity at the Twilight Art Markets
Opening night at Tanks Arts Centre will feature the Twilight Art Markets, bringing together local makers, food vendors, live DJs, gallery access and free performances.
Visitors can explore stalls, enjoy live entertainment and discover unique works from local artists.
4. Find a treasure at the Off The Wall Art Sale
Art lovers can browse and purchase original works from local artists at the market's Off The Wall Art Sale.
It's a chance to support local creatives while taking home a unique piece of Cairns-inspired art.
5. Enjoy music under the stars
The Queensland Symphony Orchestra's Symphony Under the Stars returns to Munro Martin Parklands for a special evening of live orchestral music.
The concert will also celebrate Atherton's Jon Platz, the first high school student in the orchestra's history to receive a composition commission from QSO.
6. Catch live music on the Festival Main Stage
The Festival Main Stage will host a diverse line-up of free performances on the Esplanade throughout the festival.
Opening night features a First Nations-focused program, while internationally renowned Caravãna Sun will headline part of Saturday's entertainment with their energetic live show.
7. Discover something unexpected
From SKA-B-Q and Disco Bingo Trivia to a cowboy sci-fi film and live music experience, the festival program encourages visitors to try something outside their usual routine.
With events spread across multiple venues, there is something for every age and interest.
8. Explore what's happening at Tanks Arts Centre
Tanks Arts Centre will be buzzing throughout the festival with experiences including the interactive Catch of the Day! exhibition, the late-night Fever Lounge, the world premiere of One Hour Wedding, and a headline performance by Australian country music star Casey Barnes.
9. Keep an eye out for roaming surprises
Festival-goers can expect a few unexpected encounters along the way, including O' the Observer, a giant roaming cosmic eyeball adding an extra touch of fun and spectacle to the festivities.
10. Finish with Carnival on Collins
The 10-day celebration culminates on Father's Day, 6 September, with the annual Carnival on Collins street event.
Visitors can enjoy more than 200 market stalls, local food, live music, roving performers and family-friendly activities throughout the day.
Plan your festival
Cairns Festival runs from 28 August to 6 September 2026 and features more than 49 free and 10 ticketed events across the city.
For the full program and ticket information, visit the Cairns Festival website.
