Cairns celebrates 150 years

In 2026, Cairns will mark an extraordinary milestone — 150 years since its official founding in 1876.

This once-in-a-lifetime celebration is more than just a commemoration. It’s a bold, city-wide opportunity to honour our past, embrace our present, and shape the future of one of Australia’s most vibrant and diverse regional centres.

With a year-long calendar of events and initiatives, celebrations will showcase the cultural richness, community spirit and enduring legacy of the people, places and industries that have shaped Cairns over a century and a half.

The three pillars of the celebration will focus on Recognising Cairns Past, Celebrating Cairns Today, and Looking Forward to the Next 150 Years.

The Cairns Celebrates 150 Years Advisory Committee will assist with the delivery of an informative, exciting and engaging Cairns Celebrates 150 Years program.

Explore what’s planned and discover how you can get involved by reading the full program.