Tropic Weekender: Our guide to the best events and things to do in Cairns
We're kicking off the weekend with some Christmas cheer as the lights are turned on at the Esplanade tree.
We also have culinary experiences to enjoy, knock-off bevvy's to explore, live music to see, bush to track, and markets to wander.
Thursday 1 December
It's official, it's time to turn the lights on. The Christmas Tree lights will be switched on at 7pm, by the Mayor, Santa and his helpers. There'll also be Christmas themed live music, dance performances, face painting, and more.
Guerrilla is hosting an evening exploring the vast vegetarian Mexican culture with Frida’s Vegetarian Dinner.
The Rondo Christmas Pantomime is back with A Jolly Roger Christmas. Make it a family affair, tickets on sale now for a series of dates.
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Friday 2 December
We've said it before, and we'll say it again, Friday knock-offs can make or break your weekend. If you're at a loss of where to go, check out our guide to the best Friday knock-off spots around town, no matter the vibe.
Merging lush electronic sounds with dub-funk reggae, Manuka will be playing The Tanks tonight with support from Neil Junior and Tessa Devine. Grab your tickets online - no doubt a great start to the weekend.
The Queensland Youth Orchestra Big Band is in the Far North and putting on a free show at Hemingway's Port Douglas. Enjoy some classic jazz and swing, and let the good times roll.
JC Stylles and Nikki Doll are playing at the Jazz Sanctuary for an end of year wrap up. Kicks off at 8pm, get amongst.
The German Club is having its final event of the year, Nikolaus. The man himself will be there handing out gifts and enjoying glorious German Christmas cuisine.
The Makin' Whoopee Gift Shop is holding a shopping Festive Fiesta evening with discounts, food, drinks, tunes, prizes, and goodie bags up for grabs. Also running Saturday day.
Saturday 3 December
The Cairns Potters Club is holding their Christmas Pottery Fair to help you stock up on ceramic pieces. A great opportunity to purchase locally made gifts just in time for the holiday season.
Back for one last weekend, head down to Petbarn on Mulgrave Road with your furry friend to get a Pet Pawtrait for Christmas. It's $10 for a professional photo with Santa, with 100% of funds raised going towards providing food and medical care at Cairns Animal Rescue. If you don't make it today, Santa will be there on Sunday too.
The Redlynch Christmas Twilight Markets are back with stalls of crafts, foods, and entertainment. For a wholesome night out, take the whole fam and grab a pic with Santa.
For another festive option, Joy to the World community carols and fireworks are on at the Showgrounds. Entry is free, but remember to reserve your spot.
There's plenty of opportunity to get your pup in a Santa snap with Smithfield Shopping Centre running them every Saturday in the lead up to Christmas. We guess the kids could get one too. Bookings essential.
The Koah Christmas Market begins at 8am. There'll be Christmas carols, local crafts, fresh food and goodies, and plenty of festive fun.
Sunday 4 December
Friends of Botanic Gardens is having their Christmas plant sale on the teak lawn in front of the Conservatory.
Swing in the Jungle featuring jazz guitarist JC Stylles and the Queensland Youth Orchestra Big Bands up from Brisbane, is on at the Kuranda Amphitheatre. Tickets available online.
Edge Hill favourites NOA and Guerrilla are joining forces with Rachael and Ben from Oaks Kitchen and Garden and Jungle Fowl, to bring you a Christmas edition Long Lunch. What a way to round off your weekend.
If you're after a giant hike and you know what you're doing, join the local hiking groups on the 27km return Bushwalk to Moochoopa Falls & Russell Falls.
The two-time ARIA award winning progressive metal band Northlane are performing at The Tanks with support from Forest, and Windwaker. Tickets available online.
The Tolga Christmas Market is on today, giving you another opportunity to pick up some fresh produce and local crafts.
Monday 5 December
Wrapping up their tour, the Queensland Youth Orchestra Big Band will be at Hemingway's Cairns Wharf with more jazz and swing tunes.
