Cairns Indigènes Foire des arts

Name: Cairns Indigènes Foire des arts
Start: 2026-07-09
Location: Tanks Arts Centre, 46 Collins Ave

Jul

Date

9 Jul (Thursday)

Time

Thu, 7:00 – 10:00 pm

Venue

Tanks Arts Centre, 46 Collins Ave

Edge Hill QLD, Australia

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📝 Useful Information

The Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF), known in French as the Cairns Indigènes Foire des arts, is Australia’s premier First Nations-led art festival held annually in Edge Hill, Queensland. The 2026 edition is scheduled to take place from 9 July to 12 July 2026.

The fair is a major cultural celebration that showcases the diverse artistic practices of Queensland's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The program includes a mix of free and ticketed events across various creative disciplines:

Would you like to know more about the ticket prices for the 2026 opening night or the specific artists featured in the upcoming showcases?

Event Overview

Key Highlights & Activities

Tickets and Attendance

•2026 Theme: The theme for the 17th anniversary season is "Reclamation & Regeneration".

•Location: The event is primarily hosted at the Tanks Arts Centre, located at 46 Collins Ave, Edge Hill, within the Cairns Botanic Gardens precinct.

•Art Marketplaces: The Art Fair Showcase and Artisans Showcase feature works from over 90 artists and 130 First Nations businesses, offering everything from fine art to fashion and jewellery.

•Performances: Live music and dance performances, including a spectacular Opening Night celebration that typically includes a Smoking Ceremony and headline acts from groups like the Naygayiw Gigi Dance Group.

•Fashion & Culture: The event features a dedicated Fashion Performance, cultural demonstrations, and masterclasses (e.g., weaving).

•Education: A series of CIAF Talks and symposiums featuring eminent First Nations artists, curators, and activists.

•General Entry: Much of the public program, including the art showcases and outdoor performances, is free to attend.

•Ticketed Events: Specific events such as the Opening Night, fashion shows, and specialized masterclasses require paid tickets, which often sell out in advance.

•Amenities: The venue provides on-site bars, cafes, and family-friendly facilities.

Updated at 19 Mar 2026