Lagoon evening hours change for Cairns Festival lights

As Cairns Festival prepares for this year’s dazzling Fragments of Light water show, there’ll be some temporary changes to access and swimming times at the Lagoon.

Here’s what you need to know so you can plan your visit and still make the most of Cairns’ iconic waterfront.

Change to public access times

The Lagoon will be closed to the public from 6.30pm each evening from Thursday 28 August to Sunday 7 September, for the Cairns Festival water show Fragments of Light.

Normal operating hours will resume from Monday 8 September.

Exclusion zone details

A no-swim exclusion zone will be in place to secure the pontoon and water pumps.

This may cause minor disruption to the pool area. The exclusion zone for swimmers will be active from Friday 22 August to Monday 8 September 2025.

Lifeguards and security will be on-site to assist and guide swimmers safely out of the restricted area.