Tropic Weekender: Our guide to the best events and things to do in Cairns
This weekend presents us with an abundance of fiestas and celebrations. From Cover Crash at Sauce and Latin music at the Tanks, to the Cairns 50 Ultra marathon and the 20-year anniversary of the lagoon, there is something for everyone to see and do.
But that's not all, we have plenty more live music, comedy, and performances to get amongst. And if you're looking for even more to do around the city, check out our Guide to Art Exhibitions and discover the Cairns Market Scene.
Wednesday 29 March
Wolf Lane is holding a High West & Estrella Masterclass. Hosted by Will and Jack, the event offers an opportunity to taste and learn about a range of whiskeys and beers. Guests will receive a schooner of Estrella beer on arrival and have the chance to try High West Prairie Bourbon, High West Double Rye, High West Rendezvous Rye, and a surprise limited edition High West Whiskey.
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 Amy Winehouse cover. The audience votes for their favourite artist, with the winner receiving a massive prize that includes studio hire, professional mixing and mastering, and the opportunity to have their song played on live radio.
Thursday 30 March
Everyone's favourite place is hosting the Bunnings Easter Bunny Hop. There are kids' DIY activities, face painting, entertainment, and visits from the Easter Bunny. Cairns Animal Rescue will also be present, giving everyone the chance to cuddle with some lovely pups and dogs.
Friday 31 March
Bringing some much needed spice, Los Caracoles, Amazonas, and Hoolia are performing a broad range of Latin Rhythms, including Cuban son, cumbia, Latin pop, reggaeton, mariachi and more at the Tanks. Hoolia is also accompanied by accomplished guitarist Dave Cooke singing original songs in English and Spanish.
A great opportunity to carry on from the Tanks, The Pier Bar is hosting a Latin Party with classic and contemporary hits for everyone to get amongst some Salsa, Merengue, Bachata, Cumbia, Reggaeton, Samba, Baile Funk, and Guaracha. Dimas also adds to the night with live percussion.
Long Lunch by Crystalbrook Flynn, held on one of the best vantage points in town, is hosting a four-course menu with dishes from Crystalbrook Collection's restaurants and bars. You can also enjoy a three-hour drinks package, pop-up bars, live music, and DJs, all with a view of the Esplanade and Coral Sea from the Whiskey and Wine deck.
Business Events Cairns & Great Barrier Reef are hosting a one-day Business Events Conference for meeting and event planners to explore how to position Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef as a world-class business events destination. The event features panel discussions, interactive activities, and networking opportunities.
Ecstatic Dance returns to Tank 3, offering a unique freestyle dance experience with high-quality sound, world-class DJs, and an intentional clean energy environment. Attendees can dance freely to epic tunes and connect with a beautiful community. The event emphasises the power of dance without the use of words or alcohol.
Saturday 1 April
The Esplanade Lagoon is celebrating its 20th birthday! To mark the occasion, the council has organised a free family-friendly event with free admission to the Reef Eye Ferris Wheel, live entertainment, children's activities, and a screening of the movie Clifford the Big Red Dog. Everyone is invited to join in the celebration of this iconic Cairns pool.
The Cairns 50 Ultra is on this weekend with events on Saturday and Sunday. Ultra spans 50 kms through Redlynch Valley rainforest and cane fields. There's also a 30km run, a 10km run, and a Family Funday event. The event is open to all members of the family, and participants will be able to enjoy the scenic views and challenge themselves in the beautiful surroundings.
Said to be the world's easiest competition, Music Bingo return to Edge Hills Bowls Club for an evening of prizes and good tunes. It's free entry and there will be prizes!
50 Years on Queen Bohemian Rhapsody returns to CPAC with a brand new show to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Queen. The show will feature their greatest hits and a selection of popular songs from their albums.
Wolf Lane is taking over the bar at Ochre Restaurant and hosting Cocktails & Canapés. Guests are invited to enjoy an afternoon on the waterfront while sampling four cocktails and four canapés, all prepared by one of Sam from the Distillery.
The annual dinner concert Last Night of the Proms Tribute takes place at the Pullman Reef Hotel Casino. Enjoy a two-course dinner accompanied by classical music performances featuring Catherine Knight, a soprano, and Benjamin Stock, a tenor.
The Beehive Collective, a touring group from North America, is hosting Environmental Mural & Storytelling at Crate59. The event is free to attend and will feature a stunning mural created by the collective that tells a powerful environmental story. There'll also be a live storytelling and a hip hop performance.
Tinderbox are performing at Elixir in celebration of April Fools Day. Serving up a cooky show, the Classy Clowns are set to get your goofy groove on the dance floor. They will be joined by special guests Professor Fry & Dave Zee.
Tokunai Hair is hosting its annual Because Fashion event showcasing the latest trends in fashion alongside good food, drinks and people. Proven to be a popular affair, we know for a fact these tickets go quick.
Sunday 2 April
The Tanks is hosting Let's Dance around the World a dance workshops in celebration of International Dance Day. Led by Sonya Kremser, the workshops will feature international and cultural dance styles for all experience levels. It's a gold coin donation on arrival and includes a sausage sizzle and refreshments.
The NQ Cup Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Tournament is on at PCYC Edmonton with junior and adult competitors for both Gi and No Gi styles while adhering to IBJJF rules. The tournament promotes skill development and provides an opportunity for players of any age to test their abilities. A great opportunity to watch the sport and support local talent.
Scottish Comedian of the Year in 2014, Bruce Fummey, is performing Stories of Scotland at Three Wolves. Enjoy an hour of Scottish comedy and stories from Scotland's history, including the origins of Scots. If you're a fan of Bruce Fummey's work on YouTube's Scotland History Tours or ABC's Stuff the British Stole, you'll enjoy this one.
