Carnival on Collins brings Festival to a colourful close

Cairns Festival has ended on a high note with Carnival on Collins bringing the 10-day event to a spectacular close.

Thousands of people flocked to Edge Hill for this much-loved Father’s Day tradition, which saw Collins Avenue transformed into a festival space filled with street performers, over 200 market stalls, live music and more.

The Tanks Arts Centre and Cairns Botanic Gardens were also buzzing with activity, hosting art exhibitions, film screenings, craft workshops and roving performers for attendees of all ages.

Highlights included the Slime of Your Life event, which delighted children with its playful, messy fun, as well as the Flecker Gardens Main Stage which saw the Cairns Taiko Drummers, Cape York Aboriginal Australian Academy Band and El Moth among others entertain the crowds.

Cairns Mayor Amy Eden said even the weather got into the Festival spirit with clear skies welcoming around 28,000 people.

“Carnival on Collins is an absolute highlight of Cairns Festival, and a wonderful way to close out 10 days of high-quality arts and cultural action,” Cr Eden said.

“That so many people came down to Edge Hill to enjoy the free activities on offer is proof that Carnival on Collins remains one of the community’s favourite events.

“Festival adds so much fun and colour to our city, and really brings everyone together, so it’s always sad when we reach the last day.

“I can’t wait to see what next year’s line-up has on offer.”

Photos:  1. Unofficial Festival ambassador 'Tammy Tooth' with the Let's Get Festival flash mob.  2. Kelly Sissons and Wade Ensing spread the word about protecting the Wet Tropics 3. Ben Otto from Tajenka Orchid Gardens 4: Finnlay Brown and Abigail Snelling