Entertainment
9 August, 2026
Free live music on Esplanade
MORE than 40 artists will perform across 10 consecutive days of free live music as Cairns Festival returns to the Esplanade festival hub from 28 August to 6 September, delivering its biggest live music program to date.
The main stage program will feature 10 themed nights showcasing local performers alongside Australian acts spanning First Nations hip hop, indie pop, ska, country, disco and emerging talent as part of Cairns’ 150th anniversary celebrations.
The festival opens with a celebration of First Nations music featuring The Pad Boys and Brisbane outfit Tjaka before the biggest weekend program, with Caravana Sun, Horns of Leroy, Hot Potato Band and Burger Joint performing following the Grand Parade.
Throughout the festival, audiences can also enjoy Ska-B-Q, Disco Bingo Trivia Night, Country Struts, a family movie night, an all-female music showcase headlined by Blusher and performances by emerging musicians curated by Enter Stage Right.
Mayor Amy Eden said live music would play a central role in this year’s festival.
“For 10 nights, our Esplanade will come alive with music. Live music has a way of bringing people together and creating an atmosphere people want to be part of,” she said.
“As we celebrate Cairns’ 150th year, I can’t think of a better way to spend a tropical evening than enjoying great music, great food and great company on our spectacular Esplanade.”
Sunday Mistake frontman Jasper Farnan said performing on the main stage was a significant opportunity for the local band, whose members were all still in high school.
“We are very excited to be performing on the main stage as part of Cairns Festival,” he said.
“As a young band from Cairns, it is a real privilege to be included in such a significant event, alongside so many other talented artists. It’s something we’re really proud to be a part of.
“People can expect a high-energy set with plenty of emotion. We love creating a live show that feels immersive and big, whether you have been listening to us for a while or it’s your first time hearing our music.
“We just want everyone to have a great time and leave feeling like they’ve discovered something new.”
The festival will also celebrate Cairns’ musical heritage through Carnival on Collins, with Dr David ‘Bindi’ Hudson headlining the mainstage. Canvas of Cairns will again transform the city after dark with large-scale projections and light installations.
For more information visit www.cnslocal.s.gy/Hg53Wr
