17 Jun 2025 | Cairns Festival Line-Up Drop

It is a little bit cheeky, a lot of fun, packs some serious star power and is absolutely jampacked. The countdown to Cairns Festival 2025 has officially begun, with today’s launch revealing the full line-up of ticketed events and a first look at the program set to light up the city from 29 August to 7 September.

This year’s program delivers an exciting mix of comedy, cabaret, circus and music with some of the most anticipated shows in the line-up including Primal, CIRCA’s Duck Pond, Hey DJ, and comedy favourites Luke McGregor and Merrick Watts with his hilarious wine-tasting experience An Idiot’s Guide to Wine. Local talent also shines, with RADF-supported acrobatic ensemble Buenos Nachos set to present their sultry and spectacular show Madam After Dark at Bulmba-ja from 28 to 30 August.

The Cat Empire will also headline a huge open-air concert at Munro Martin Parklands on Sunday 31 August. On a national album launch tour, this ultimate Aussie party band is set to close out the opening weekend with a bang in one of Cairns’ favourite outdoor venues.

The 11-ticketed events are just part of a broader 10-day celebration that also features much-loved community favourites including the Grand Parade and Carnival on Collins, alongside new large-scale installations and interactive experiences.

The popular Reef Lights returns reimagined as Canvas of Cairns, while a giant whale, roving DJs on tricycles and bubble-filled skies promise playful moments throughout the Esplanade and city.

Cairns Mayor Amy Eden said excitement for the festival was already building and the release of the ticketed line-up was just a teaser of what is to come.

“Cairns Festival is the biggest party on our city’s calendar and this year’s line-up is bold, fun and full of surprises,” Cr Eden said.

“We have got some brilliant new additions, plus much-loved favourites in the line-up, and I can tell you now, you will not want to miss a moment of it.

“Now is the time to check out the great range of ticketed events, plan out your festival week, and get the most out of everything this fantastic event has to offer.”

Tickets go on sale Wednesday 18 June at cairnsfest.com.au.

Media Enquiries:
Tanya Snelling
P 0417 202 663
E tanya@strategicpr.com.au

Cairns Festival continues to champion local talent, with RADF (Regional Arts Development Fund) recipients bringing fresh and exciting work to the stage. Among them, Cairns-based acrobatic outfit Buenos Nachos presents their sultry and spectacular show Madam After Dark at Bulmba-ja from 28 to 30 August.