Cairns African Festival launches at Cairns Esplanade

Get ready to groove to the beat of the drums as the Cairns African Festival takes over the Cairns Esplanade on Saturday.

Abuk Garang, 8, enjoys the Cairns African Festival, held at Fogarty Park on Saturday. Picture: Brendan Radke

Get ready to groove to the beat of the drums as the Cairns African Festival takes over the Cairns Esplanade on Saturday.

The annual event, organised by the Cairns African Association, will transform the Western Events Lawn into a vibrant space filled with rhythmical African drumming and dancing, children’s activities, food and more.

Cairns African Association president Anna Wairimu Jones said the event would show the diversity of African culture.

“It’s a place where diversity in language, tradition, and skills from across Africa are not just showcased but celebrated with boundless joy,” Ms Jones said.

“This year, we dive deep into the theme of building resilient education systems, aiming to empower through lifelong, inclusive, and quality learning.”

Festival highlights include Traditional African women storytelling through dance, fashion parades, art displays and performances by traditional drummers and reggae and hip hop musicians.

“Join us in embracing the spirit, resilience, and joy of Africa with a heartfelt Welcome to Country by the Yidinji traditional owners to the interactive charity stalls and immersive cultural experiences, this festival is a beacon of community, collaboration, and celebration,” Ms Jones said.

The event is ticketed, however there will be free African Drumming workshops on June 1 from 9am to 12pm.

Originally published as Cairns African Festival launches at Cairns Esplanade