EOIs open for Cairns Children's Festival 2026

Cairns Children’s Festival returns on 16-17 May 2026, and Council is calling on creators, families, young entrepreneurs, foodies and volunteers to help bring this much-loved celebration of imagination to life.

Expressions of Interest (EOIs) open 1 December, with opportunities across art, activities, markets, exhibitions, food and volunteering.

We’re calling all artists, tinkerers, dreamers and creative whirlwinds to deliver Creation Stations at both Cairns Performing Arts Centre (16 May) and Tanks Arts Centre (17 May), with budgets available for creative activity proposals.

Got a mini mogul at home? Budding young entrepreneurs aged 7–17 are invited to apply for the Mini Makers Market, where handmade creations take centre stage and stallholders gain real-world business experience with the support of mentors.

Young artists under 12 years old are also encouraged to dive into the blue and submit artworks for the Dive Deep Down Children’s Exhibition at Tank 4 Gallery – an exciting chance to explore the unknown mysteries of the ocean through creativity.

Food vendors can apply for the popular family fun day at Tanks Arts Centre on 17 May, with around 8,000 hungry attendees each year.

And if your superpower is spreading joy, come join the volunteer team. No experience needed - just enthusiasm, warmth, and a good dash of fun.

Apply via cairns.qld.gov.au/childrens-festival