The Cairns Children’s Festival 2026 is scheduled to take place on Saturday, 16 May and Sunday, 17 May 2026. While the festival spans multiple locations in Cairns, the events in Edge Hill are traditionally held on the second day (Sunday) at the Tanks Arts Centre and the Cairns Botanic Gardens.
The Sunday program is known for being a major family fun day with mostly free activities.
On Saturday, 16 May, the festival kicks off with ticketed performances and immersive experiences at venues in Cairns City, including:
Hosting shows like POD and The Alphabet of Awesome Science.
Featuring the interactive Night at the Library theatre experience.
For booking ticketed Saturday events or checking for the full 2026 program, visit the official Cairns Children's Festival website.
Would you like help booking tickets for the Saturday performances or finding parking options near the Tanks Arts Centre for Sunday?
Edge Hill Event Details
Key Highlights in Edge Hill
Other Festival Locations
•Date & Time: Sunday, 17 May 2026, from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm.
•Location: Tanks Arts Centre (46 Collins Ave) and Cairns Botanic Gardens (78-96 Collins Ave), Edge Hill.
•Tanks Arts Centre
•Cairns Botanic Gardens
•Cost: Activities at the Tanks and Botanic Gardens on Sunday are typically free.
•Activities at the Tanks and Botanic Gardens on Sunday are typically
•and Botanic Gardens on Sunday are typically
•Mini Makers Market: A market featuring young entrepreneurs (ages 7–17) selling their own creations at the Tanks Arts Centre.
•A market featuring young entrepreneurs (ages 7–17) selling their own creations at the Tanks Arts Centre
•Interactive Art & Workshops: The Tanks precinct often hosts "Creation Stations," where kids can participate in hands-on art and science activities.
•Live Entertainment: Past programs have included live music in Tank 5 and roving performers throughout the promenade.
•Nature Exploration: The Botanic Gardens typically host treasure hunts and guided exploration walks for young adventurers.
•The Botanic Gardens typically host treasure hunts and guided exploration walks for young adventurers
•Children’s Art Exhibition: The Tank 4 Gallery usually features a special exhibition of works by local children, which runs throughout the festival period.
•Hosting shows like POD and The Alphabet of Awesome Science.
•Featuring the interactive Night at the Library theatre experience.
•Cairns Children's Festival website
•near the Tanks Arts Centre for Sunday?
Updated at 19 Mar 2026