Tropic Weekender: Our guide to the best events and things to do in Cairns
This week brings forth a medley of events including the first ever Cairns Fashion Week, we have a few comedy legends in town, Cairns Museum launches a newly installed exhibition, and theres a few live tunes to be heard. Plus, the Laura Races are on, Caffiend continues their birthday celebrations, and Mossman hosts a Quilt and Craft Expo.
If you're after something else, discover the Cairns and Tablelands market scenes, there's a few on this weekend to get amongst. And don't forget to stay up to date with our Guide to art exhibitions and events.
Wednesday 21 June
The inaugural Cairns Fashion Week launched last night and will continue for the next five days, featuring a range of symposiums and showcases. Held at various Crystalbrook spots and the Tanks, the week invites you to immerse yourself in style and creativity, with presentations of swimwear, resort wear, street style, and couture.
Thursday 22 June
Australian comedy legend Paul McDermott and his musical collaborator Glenn Moorhouse present BLOOD ORANGE, a dynamic and darkly humorous exploration of the collapse of civilisation. Through comedy, music, and liturgical dance, they bring joy and laughter to a troubled world. Join Paul McDermott Plus One on this delightfully twisted journey towards the light.
Friday 23 June
Join the Cairns Museum and Historical Society for the opening of their latest exhibition, 50 Treasures Revisited. Held in cahoots with JCU, this exhibition features 17 rare artefacts from JCU's 50th Anniversary collection. Enjoy snacks, a cash bar, and support the society - you can even become a member. Get amongst some local history, and get your weekend started with a little culture.
Coterie, a sensational five-piece band from Perth, is rapidly gaining fame as one of Australia's most electrifying live acts. With soulful rock music and mesmerizing harmonies, they leave audiences yearning for more.
Get ready for an uproarious night of Standup Comedy with award-winning comedians Kel Balnaves and Amy Hetherington. With fresh jokes and entertaining stories, this highly anticipated event is sure to have you laughing all night long.
Cover Crash is on at Sauce Brewing. The event provides a platform for small and up-and-coming artists to have their music professionally recorded and mixed. Each artist performs two original songs and one ABBA cover. The audience votes for their favourite artist, with the winner receiving a massive prize that includes studio hire, professional mixing and mastering.
The Laura Races are on, bringing together a crowd from across Cape York Peninsula. The day also includes a rodeo, and will have a range of stalls and events for the whole family.
Saturday 24 June
Get amongst Caffiend's Street Art Project #5. Join for an exclusive afternoon workshop led by renowned local street artist Kane Maneylaws. Open to anyone aged 10 and above, this workshop offers an immersive experience in street art. All necessary equipment will be provided, so simply bring yourself and wear comfortable clothing, preferably something you're not too attached to.
Today is day 1 of 7 of the Cairns 2 Karumba Bike Ride, a 780 km journey. It's the longest event ride in the country and has been running for 25 years. Participants raise money for education by supporting local schools along the route.
Join Frenzal Rhomb as they launch their on their The Cup Of Pestilence album launch tour 2023, featuring special guests The Meanies. Experience their explosive punk rock energy as they celebrate the release of their tenth album.
Multi-talented artist, Katanak, is releasing his debut single Lights of Tokyo and kicking off his East Coast Tour. Catch him at Elixir Music Bar in Cairns, where he'll be joined by local legends Rob Howe and Cinnamon Sun.
Discover a wine lover's paradise with 500+ wines across various styles, from sparkling to fortified at the Cairns Show Wine Awards. Receive a complimentary souvenir glass and explore medal-winning wines, enter lucky door prize draws, and attend the wine appreciation course.
The Mossman Quilt & Craft Expo returns with an abundance of quilt and craft items from across NQ and beyond. A delightful experience for quilting and crafting enthusiasts, you can explore all sorts of creations, wander the stalls, then come back and do it all again tomorrow.
Experience Mount Uncle Distillery's award-winning rums at the Raise a Glass to the Past Rum Masterclass at Daintree Bar, Port Douglas. Paired with dishes, celebrate the region's cane cutter heritage and indulge in the flavours of Tropical North Queensland.
Sunday 25 June
Head to Caffiend for the final 14th birthday Wrap Party as another Grafton Street Laneway gets inducted into the prolific Cairns street art scene. They welcome back the legendary Phibs, who has been an integral part of their past street art projects and the mastermind behind Caffiend's logo. Cairns' own talented artists such as Mint, Tune, Caroline Mudge, and more will be showcasing their skills. Book ahead for $5 entry or pay $10 at the door.
For one last time before closing for good on 30 June, it's Sauced Up on Sunday at Sauce Brewing Cairns, featuring the usual - craft beers, oysters, live music, and weekly seafood specials. This week we have Shannon Hunter performing, kicking it off from 3.30pm.
