Tropic Weekender: Our guide to the best events and things to do in Cairns
There's certainly something for everyone on this full moon weekend.
The world-renowned Ocean Film Festival is coming to Cairns, while the largest dog sports club in Queensland is hosting its open day. Plus, you can still take part in St Patrick's Day festivities!
Showers will be sticking around but they are easing.
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Friday 18 March
The Cairns Performing Arts Centre is showcasing the Ocean Film Festival, a three hour celebration of sublime underwater footage. To find out more and to grab tickets, head here.
Or, you can head to Ellis Beach for this year's first Full Moon Drum event for the year. Hire a stool and djembe drum for $10, or simply watch for free. Weather permitting.
The second annual ‘Colours for the Kids’ fundraiser is on, so get dressed in your brightest and wackiest gear and put out the donation hat to help raise critical funds for the more than 4,000 children that Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia support each year. Did you know there's a Ronald McDonald House at Palm Cove?
Saturday 19 March
The Cairns City Kennel Club is holding its open day from 9am to 1pm. Of course, it's a dog-friendly event and includes fun activities like egg and spoon races (with the canines!). Entry is via a gold coin donation.
Teenage singing sensation Abi Muir is releasing her Debut EP at The Reef Hotel Casino's BAR36. She's certainly one to watch and will be rolling out the tunes with her five piece band from 7.30pm. Entry is free.
Unfortunately, tickets for Abba show Bjorn Again at CPAC have sold out.
Cairns Art Gallery is opening the historic Archie 100 this Saturday, bringing together more than one hundred artworks spanning every decade of The Archibald Prize. It's free to visit, unlike most other galleries, and the Gallery is extending its opening hours in celebration of one of the most significant exhibitions to visit Cairns.
You can also hear a talk from Archie 100 Curator Natalie Wilson and Artist Ian Smith. This event is ticketed.
NorthSite is hosting Nerelle Nicol's See What I See exhibition, which opens at Bulmba-ja at 11am, featuring beautiful textured digital photography capturing the intricacies of nature.
Pre-loved formal attire is up for grabs at Centacare's Formal Savvy Pop Up Sale from 9am. Some new gowns have even been donated, along with shoes and accessories. Head to 8 Minnie St to pick up a bargain.
Take the brood down to Watson's Oval for the St Patrick's Family Fun Day. You can partake in Gaelic footy and Irish dancing among other activities. The fun starts from 11am.
Sunday 20 March
End Credits Film Club brings you Drive My Car, a Japanese drama which won Best Screenplay at the Cannes Film Festival. See it at BCC Cinemas Earlville.
The Triple Threat Comedy Showcase at Fetta's Greek Taverna features Macca Melody, Ally Cockrell and Jay Wymarra.
Jump in the motorbike saddle for the Cairns Black Dog Ride.
Markets are on at The Pier, accompanied by concert cellist Sally Ann Davies-Griffith.
