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

Our lucky last long weekend of April is here, and there's heaps on in Cairns and the tropical north.  

There's two brand new venues to check out: Code Cairns, and a cruisy new craft brewery in the Tablelands (you'll have to keep reading for that one). 

Plus, an AFL match at Cazalys, the start of the Dolphins and Marlins season, and loads of live music. 

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Friday 29 April

There’s a brand new craft brewery in Atherton, Billycart Brewing Co! It’s opening this weekend with a bit of live music tonight by Ally Row. Food by Duck & Felicia's Tacos. 65 Tolga Road, music starts at 5pm.

NorthSite’s Sounded Out Art Party event is opening two new exhibitions tonight with live performances, DJ beats and local gin cocktails. Wish You Were Here combines collaged works on paper, animation and augmented reality, while Material Sound is all about sound experimentation in a contemporary context. 7pm onwards, tickets $15.

Ed Kuepper joins Jim White, supported by Eddie Skiba, to bring some quality live music to the Tanks this Friday evening. Tickets $45, 7.30pm start.

The Rondo Theatre is opening its latest production, Cherish – a compelling story of two queer couples and the children they share. The show runs at 8pm every evening, bar Sunday, until 7 May. Tickets from $26.

Saturday 30 April

The Cairns Indian Association is today hosting the HOLI Festival of Colours, to mark the celebration of the victory of good over evil. There’ll be Bollywood music and food galore in the McKenzie Street Parklands, from 11am to 4pm.

Pachamama at Crystalbrook Bailey reopens this weekend after its summer slumber. Teaming up with Wolf Lane and DJ Lewis, the South-American inspired party kicks off from 1pm. Free event.

Top tier AFL footy is in Cairns this weekend! Catch the Saints take on Port Adelaide this Saturday, 5.30pm kick off at Cazalys. Adult tickets from $27 on Ticketek.

The Cairns Dolphins & Marlins 2022 NBL1 North season also kicks off this weekend, with the Far North hosts Ipswich Force. Tickets from $12.

The Tanks is welcoming Ollie McGill from the Cat Empire and Izy, a three-piece neo-soul group with roots in the Far North. Together, they’ll journey through the giants of jazz in the 60s and 70s. Tickets from $30, 7.30pm.

Sunday 1 May

The Palm Cove Markets are on this weekend, just in time for Mother’s Day gift seeking! 8am to 2pm along Collins Avenue.

Looking for a fun way to keep the long weekend rolling? Head along to Mareeba Drive In, screening the original Fast and the Furious for a $5pp Sunday special. 5.30pm gates open before 7pm start, camping overnight welcome.