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

Another long weekend? Don’t mind if we do!

While the weather may keep you indoors, there’s plenty on in and around Cairns that’s worth pulling out the brolly for.

We'll be out supporting the Taipans for their last two home games of the season. 

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Thursday 21 April

It’s the last round of the NBL22 this week, and the Taipans team is bringing it home with a double-header at the Convention Centre! Watch them take on the Sydney Kings tonight at 7.30pm ahead of another match on Saturday. Tickets from $25

Crystalbrook’s Boardwalk Social is tonight hosting Lady Luck. Not your average game of bingo, you can expect a hilarious (and naughty) take on life's greatest game of chance, with a touch of tinsel! Book your table here.

Friday 22 April

Sneaky Sound System is set to bring their best bangers to the Tanks this Friday night, kicking off your weekend with hits like UFO, I Love It and Pictures. Tickets are sold out!

Guyala Café is hosting another one of its fabulous Wine & Cheese Tastings, this time with experienced sommelier Chris Ford. Tickets are $79pp, which includes six wine tastings, a. glass of prosecco and gourmet cheeses. 5.30 to 8.30pm.

Cairns duo The Dannies will be at the Trinity Beach Sports Club spinning tunes this Friday night. Free event, 7.30pm start.

The Conservatory Bar is hosting a tasting night of some well-aged shiraz blends, next to sommelier Ross’s favourite modern Australian and international wines. $90pp and includes a cheese board, 7.30pm start.

More live music can be found at Bar 94, with Kallidad bringing some Spanish guitar magic with rock and roll energy to the CBD bar. Tickets $30, 8pm start.

Saturday 23 April

Yungaburra Markets, the longest-running markets on the Tablelands, kicks off bright and early Saturday morning. There's something for everyone among its eclectic range of fares and wares.

Northern Pride is gearing up to face the Redcliffe Dolphins this weekend in home ground Barlow Park. Gates open form 3pm with the U21s HDC team up first, followed by another round of the Hostplus Cup at 5pm. Tickets available at the gate or online.

Got a Mother’s Day present sorted? If not, head along to Succuliving’s Kokedama Workshop this Saturday evening. You’ll learns step-by-step instructions to making your own, with a few styling tips and all materials included. Plus, champagne on arrival and a cheese platter! $85pp, bookings essential.

Ochre Restaurant has Mt Uncle Distillery’s Mark Watkins in town this weekend to host a canapes and spirits pairing. Featuring five small dishes alongside gin and agave spirit tastings, and a dessert plus cocktail to finish. 3 to 5pm, $69pp. Bookings essential.

Cairns is being treated to a night of world-class jazz with JC Stylles and visiting alto star Blaine Whittaker, alongside other local artists. Head to the Melting Pot (above Elixir Music Bar) and remember to BYO if you’d like to drink, and the bar’s gone alcohol-free. 7.30pm onwards, tickets from $45.

Local singer and songwriter Amber Farnan is launching her new single, The Hollow, at Macalisters this weekend, alongside indie-folk two-piece Ally Row. 7pm start, $8 entry at the door.

Sunday 24 April

The Tanks Markets are back, hooray! From 9am to 2pm, you’ll find a huge collection of local handcrafts, books, plants, vintage clothes and collectables, with food trucks to boot.

If our story on tips and tricks for performing well in Ironman Cairns got you inspired, there’s a free webinar this Sunday on hosted by Port Douglas swim coach, Irene Cats from Swim Fit For Life. In it, she’ll share valuable advice on zooming through the open water swim, which is often the most stressful leg for triathletes. Register here.

The Bluewater at Trinity Park is hosting local acoustic singer Talitha Jae this Sunday arvo. 2 to 5pm, free event.

Local comedians Steven Poon, Tania Lacy and Hayden Douglas are putting on a side-splitting show at Fetta’s Greek Taverna this Sunday. 6.30pm start, tickets $10.