Record crowds at 2026 Cairns Children's Festival

The 2026 Cairns Children's Festival has attracted the largest audience in the festival's history, welcoming an estimated 19,724 attendees across two days of creativity, curiosity and connection.

One of the region's most popular family events, the festival delivered 40 performances and activities across the Cairns Performing Arts Centre, Tanks Arts Centre, Cairns Botanic Gardens and Cairns City Library.

A growing favourite for local families

Established in 2014, the Cairns Children's Festival is the region's premier arts and cultural event for children aged 12 years and under.

Attendance increased by 43 per cent compared with 2025 and has grown by 160 per cent since 2015, highlighting the festival's growing popularity with local families.

More than 90 per cent of the festival’s events were free, giving thousands of children and families the opportunity to experience high-quality arts and cultural experiences regardless of their circumstances.

How does the festival support local talent?

The festival featured strong local and youth participation, with 257 artists, creatives and facilitators involved in delivering the program.

Of those participants, 198 were from Far North Queensland, helping showcase local talent and support the region's creative sector.

The event also provided opportunities for 185 young participants to perform, create and engage with the arts.

Driven by community support

A dedicated team of 45 volunteers contributed 222 hours to deliver the festival, up from 35 volunteers in 2025.

Their contribution helped create a welcoming and inclusive experience for thousands of children and families across the two-day event.

What does the festival mean for Cairns?

The Cairns Children's Festival continues to contribute to community wellbeing, support local artists and strengthen Cairns' reputation as a leading cultural destination in Northern Australia.