Neon Space Garden
Date: Sunday 17 May
Times: 9.00am - 2.00pm
Location: Tank 5
Step into the Neon Space Garden, an immersive UV wonderland created especially for curious young explorers.
This glowing walk-through experience invites children to follow a winding path of luminous stepping stones beneath radiant archways and floating forms, all set within a vibrant, otherworldly landscape.
Lit entirely by UV blacklight, this cosmic garden transforms into a dreamlike world of bold colour, contrast and gentle movement.
Children are encouraged to look up, reach out and actively engage with their textual surroundings as they journey through this transportive space.
Designed to spark imagination, inspire creativity and celebrate the joy of discovery, the Neon Space Garden is a magical highlight of the Children’s Festival, where art, light and play come together in an unforgettable sensory adventure.

About the Artist
Dilja Thorpe is a Cairns-based artist, event producer, and creative facilitator passionate about creating immersive, imagination-led experiences.
As the creator of the Neon Space Garden and Space Bugs Creation Station for the Cairns Children’s Festival, she invites children to build their own glowing creatures from everyday materials, bringing them to life within a vibrant, UV-lit world. Inspired by a playful, Dr. Seuss-like aesthetic where imperfection is celebrated, her work aims to make creativity feel accessible and achievable.
With a background in youth work and the arts, Dilja is excited to empower young people to see that magical artworks can be made from simple materials.
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More from Cairns Children's Festival
Program: Sun 17 May
Sunday is our famous free family fun day at Tanks Arts Centre and the Cairns Botanic Gardens!
Program: Sat 16 May
Saturday presents a day of free and ticketed entertainment across Cairns Performing Arts Centre and Cairns City Library!
A Quieter Journey
We're excited to offer an inclusive experience, designed to accommodate audiences who may need quieter spaces, less crowds, or alternative ways to enjoy the shows.
A huge thank you to our generous sponsors Pacific Toyota and Inspired Signs for their incredible support! Your contributions help make Cairns Children's Festival possible.
Sat 17 May | Sun 18 May |
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Last Updated: 24 April 2026
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