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

Sport is the name of the game this weekend, with the local AFL season kicking off, Northern Pride's first home game, and a Taipans battle in the Snake Pit. 

There's also heaps of upcoming events for live music lovers, market-goers and art enthusiasts.

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Friday 8 April

Tessa Devine, Tullara and Whoodafunkit are joining forces to host a live music Flood Fundraiser at Brother Jenkins this Friday night. 5.30pm start, tickets $30.

The Kite Gallery has two exhibition openings this Friday – Little Women, featuring local artists Hayley Gillespie, Lou Derry, Amanda Mcgahan and Jeni Bullock, and Part Deux by photographer Steve Cooke. 6pm start, complimentary food and drinks available.

Crystalbrook Bailey launches its latest art exhibition this Friday evening, Ancient Voices - New Beginnings. It features the works of father and daughter duo David and Jedess Hudson, combining David's traditional storytelling style with Jedess' contemporary perspective. Hear the Indigenous local artists speak from 6.30pm. Free event, with complimentary nibbles and a paid bar.

Babinda Cinema is screening the new Batman film this weekend, and they’re offering adult tickets at kids prices! 7.30pm start.

At CPAC you can see an electrifying tribute show to Aretha Franklin. RESPECT starts at 7.30pm, with tickets around $70.  

Country artist Travis Collins is playing at Edge Hill Tavern this Friday night, from 8pm. Tickets for $39.80.

Saturday 9 April

Northern Pride hosts its first home game this Saturday at Barlow Park. Gates open at midday for the U18s, BMD Gold Star and U21s, before the boys take on the Townsville Blackhawks at 5.30pm. Tickets available online or at the gate.

The local AFL comp also starts its new season on Saturday. Tropic will be cheering for the Cairns North Tigers as they take on Port at Watsons Oval. 12.30pm start for reserves.

The Songkran Festival (Thai New Year) comes to Cairns this weekend, along with a stack of activities, performances and food stalls. You can find it all on the Cairns Esplanade’s Western Lawn, 11am to 9pm.

Who’s up for a night at the outdoor cinema? Mareeba Drive In Theatre is screening two kids flicks this weekend – Monster Family 2 and Missing Link. Adult tickets from $14, which includes camping afterwards!

Sunday 10 April

Sunday markets can be found at Holloways Beach this weekend, from 8am to 1pm.

On the back of a streak of wins, the Cairns Taipans are back in their home for a match against Melbourne United this Sunday. 3pm start, tickets from $25.

Two of Australia’s most respected musicians, Ian Moss & Troy Cassar-Daley, are in Cairns this weekend to play at CPAC. 7.30pm start, tickets from $80.60.