Tropic Weekender: Our guide to the best events and things to do in Cairns
We have a wild ride in store as Port Douglas Hot & Steamy kicks off, along with Summer Sounds' leading lady Jessica Mauboy, Trivia Night at Salt, a resin art workshop, markets, and of course, we have some Taipans action - you name it.
Wednesday 15 February
The Cairns Taipans have made the semi final playoffs but unfortunately game 1 against the Sydney Kings is down south so you'll have to catch it on the screen. Reef Casino is the official go-to for their games, but as long as you're watching, it doesn't matter where. Let's go Cairns!
Thursday 16 February
Hot & Steamy Festival is back for 2023! The four-day LGBTQI+ event in Port Douglas begins today and runs through to Sunday, just before Sydney World Pride. The festival takes place at iconic spots in PD and offers a unique experience with stunning surroundings. The festival features DJ Jason Conti and exciting performances from Melbourne's premier drag queens and hot dancing boys. Second release tickets are on sale and selling fast, so don't miss out!
Part of the fest, Zinc is hosting Get Lei'd Luau, a cocktail and street food luau. Attendees can enjoy Port Douglas island style cuisine with food stalls, fire pits, and food trucks. Mixologists will be serving up tropical drinks with froze, flare, and finesse. This is an opportunity to experience street food with a tropical twist. Come and get lei'd, drink cocktails, and enjoy the green season in the tropics.
Salt House presents Trivia Night, an event supporting the Dr Edward Koch Foundation, a non-profit organisation focused on public health activities in regional Queensland. The Foundation primarily focuses on improving the lives of those at risk of or affected by suicide through its Life Program. The event is open to everyone, with an entry fee of $10 per person that is donated to the Foundation. Bookings are essential.
Friday 17 February
The Cairns Taipans have made the semi final playoffs and will be returning for game 2 against the Sydney Kings. Grab your tickets online, and don't forget to don your best orange fit in support - all week long, just to be safe.
Taste in the Tropics (TITT) long lunch is taking place on a Friday afternoon at the Salsa Bar & Grill in Port Douglas. The event features a cocktail on arrival, a three-course lunch, and a beverage list to ensure guests stay cooled and hydrated. This is a fab way to spend a Friday arvo in the tropics at a stunning and iconic venue.
Following the day's shenanigans, we have the Sugar Wharf White Party overlooking Dickson's Inlet and the Coral Sea. The event features performances from Melbourne drag queens, dancing boys, and DJs, with food and beverages available for purchase and a welcome drink provided. The dress code is, you guessed it - white, so get ready for an unforgettable night of fun and excitement, and get that oxyaction ready.
Nattali Rize, a conscious artist and frontwoman for Blue King Brown, is performing at The Tanks with special guests The Black Sistaz. The show will be an intimate, unplugged performance showcasing Nattali's powerful vocals, rhythms, and inspiring lyrics. The performance promises to be positive, energetic, and emotive. Nattali is highly regarded by the likes of Michael Franti and Rolling Stone as a refreshing voice in the world.
Saturday 18 February
The scene is ripe for a local resurgence of some DnB, and so The Jack has stepped up. The event is hosted by Cairns Drum & Bass HQ and is held at The Boiler Room, a tight and fitting spot to catch some beats and likely, some feels.
Multi-award-winning R&B-pop artist and actress, Jessica Mauboy, is performing at CPAC as part of Cairns Summer Sounds. She has a successful career with numerous hits and accolades including ARIA Awards and the Australian of the Year Award. Her sold-out show will feature a collection of her global hits infused with empowerment.
Introducing a new event this year, The Sunset Cocktail Party at the Bacardi Bar as part of Hot & Steamy. The outdoor deck offers stunning views of Dickson's Inlet and the boats sailing by, while the indoor lounge area is fully air-conditioned, perfect for a hot and steamy day. The event includes a DJ, welcome cocktail, and finger food, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy an ice-cold drink with friends.
The Clink Theatre presents La Cage aux Douglas with Donna Perignonn. Taking you on a journey of those camp classics starring the fabulous local talent of our region... If its camp your after don't miss this jamboree.
Cairns Animal Rescue is partnering with PetBarn for Rescue Month. Visit PetBarn Westcourt any Saturday this month and meet your newest family member. There'll be dogs looking for their forever homes, who are in need of some tlc. Running 10am-1pm.
The Main Festival Dance Party for Hot & Steamy Festival will take place at the Central Hotel, a central spot in PD. The event will showcase performances from Melbourne's top drag queens and hot dancing boys, promising to be a night filled with excitement and entertainment. Get ready to dance and overindulge!
Get ready for BOATCHELLA, the first official Panda Room gig of the year presented by Pandamonium Records. On February 18th, enjoy a night of eclectic original music from top artists across North Queensland. Tickets are only $25 and include delicious hot food. Limited to 150 tickets, so don't miss out! BYO alcohol and esky.
Learn the fundamental skills and techniques of Resin Art in an introductory course with Rachel R. Wright and team at the Tanks Art Centre. Choose to make a take-home piece, receive a take-home information sheet, and product guide to continue creating from home. Perfect for those looking to continue resin art from home or create a handmade and unique piece for their home.
The Secret Jungle Tea Room and Alcohol-free Cocktail bar is turning one and they're having a party! Enjoy live music, a new drinks menu, and a 10 percent discount on everything. The newly renovated space is the perfect place to kick back and enjoy the extensive range of specialty drinks, vegan sweet treats, coffee, and tea.
Join Flute Circle Mareeba and experience the Native American style flute like never before. Learn how to play, cover scales, and explore new songs to nourish your soul. This is a unique opportunity to connect with others and enjoy the simple beauty of the flute. Come and discover the soothing and inspiring power of this ancient instrument. Held at the FNQ Oriental Healing Centre in Mareeba.
Sunday 19 February
Niramaya Villas and Spa are hosting a day of fun and entertainment with fabulous drag queens and hot dancing boys at their Soaked Pool Party. Enjoy finger food while sipping on drinks available for purchase. Dress code? We don't need to spell it out for you.
The Pier Markets are back today with free entertainment including face painting and a jumping castle, local stalls, as well as Roaming Wild, allowing visitors to see and interact with a variety of animals.
We have a range of new art exhibitions and shows kicking off this week across all local galleries - check out our Guide to see what's on and where to go.
