Tropic Weekender: Our guide to the best events and things to do in Cairns

Looking for something to do this weekend - check out these exciting events happening in and around Cairns!

From a mixed media workshop to a play about the assassination of President JFK, Banff Mountain Film Fest, a Craft Beer Fest, and an ode to Taylor Swift at The Jack, there's something for everyone.

Step back in time this Pioneer Weekend at Herberton, enjoy a naughty laugh with comedian Frenchy, plus Daniel Champagne is in town. Don't miss out on the fun and entertainment this weekend!

As always, if you're looking for more discover the Cairns and Tablelands market scenes, there's a few on this weekend too.

Wednesday 3 May

Oxlades is hosting a Mixed Media Workshop with Tanya Chapman. Create with and explore a range of media and techniques that can be used to create a fresh piece of art, or bring in an unfinished work that needs a little tlc. Suitable for all skill levels.

Now showing at The Rondo Theatre, Four Days in Dallas, a play about the assassination of President JFK. Almost 60 years ago, President John F. Kennedy was shot and killed while driving through the streets of Dallas. Lee Harvey Oswald was charged with the assassination, but many questions remain unanswered. The play explores the events of those four days in Dallas and the aftermath of the tragedy.

Friday 5 May

Banff Mountain Film Festival is on at CPAC, featuring captivating short films shot in some of the wildest and most remote corners of the world. The Australian lineup showcases the best mountain sport, culture, environment, adventure, and exploration films. Presented by Adventure Reels, this 2.5-hour celebration is packed full of mesmerising cinematography and adrenaline-inducing action sequences.

The Cairns Expo is the region’s largest outdoor adventure, home and lifestyle event. Over three days, the Cairns Showgrounds will be filled with the latest caravans, camper trailers, motorhomes, accessories, fishing gear plus great ideas for your home.

Saturday 6 May

Young Australian virtuoso Daniel Champagne is bringing his tour to Edge Hill Tavern. Described as 'the finest guitar player of this generation', Daniel has been honing his craft for over a decade and has shared stages with renowned artists such as Tommy Emmanuel, INXS, and John Butler. With a passion for spreading music worldwide, Daniel promises to deliver an unforgettable live show.

Hemingways is hosting their annual Cairns Craft Beer Fest freshly made brews from Hemingway’s Breweries, Barrier Reef Brewing, Coral Sea Brewing, Macalisters Brewing, Billycart Brewing, Maggie Island Brewing and local distilleries. Entry is free with games and prizes up for grabs!

In honour of the announcement of ‘The Eras Tour’, The Jack is hosting a Taylor Swift Eras Dress Up Party to find out which album is truly superior. They’ll be playing all the bangers from your favourite albums so get ready to sing, dance and cry all, night, long.

Vintage Australia comes alive at Historic Village Herberton Pioneer Weekend. Entertainment includes blacksmithing, competitive wood chopping, vintage machinery demonstrations, and loads of other family fun! Don't forget to dress up and participate in the Fashions on the Field competition for a chance to win prizes.

St Therese's School is holding a Market Day. Enjoy the arvo with over 40 market stalls, food vendors, a bar, rides, kids alley, live music and much more. Cairns Barrier Reef Jumping Castles will be there on the day with some really great rides!

The Cairns Marlins and Cairns Dolphins are hitting the court against the Southern Districts Spartans. First game begins at 6pm, both at Early Settler Stadium.

Sunday 7 May

Get ready to laugh with comedian Frenchy's new comedy show, Judgement Day at CPAC. With edgy and absurd humour, nothing is off limits in this hilarious performance. Frenchy promises an epic night filled with laughs, seats, and shoeys. Just be careful if you're in the front row! Don't miss out on the fun.

Nature-based jewellery maker and artist Bree O'Connor is hosting a Polymer Jewellery Workshop at NorthSite Art Studio. Polymer clay is a versatile and durable material that allows for endless possibilities in terms of colour, texture, and shape. The workshop is suitable for beginners and experienced makers.