Set against the backdrop of the Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics Rainforest, Cairns Ecofiesta is a celebration of sustainable living in the tropics.
The free event returns to Munro Martin Parklands on Sunday 21 June from 10am to 6pm, featuring live entertainment, hands-on workshops, a green tech expo, sustainable living solutions and an appearance by celebrity gardening guru Costa Georgiadis.
Cairns Mayor Amy Eden said Ecofiesta showcased practical ways people could make a positive difference while celebrating the region’s unique lifestyle and environment.
“Ecofiesta brings the community together to share ideas, discover new approaches and learn how small changes can make a meaningful impact,” Cr Eden said.
“Whether it’s reducing waste, growing your own food, embracing new technology or supporting local initiatives, there’s inspiration for everyone.”
“Now in its 11th year – and as Cairns celebrates 150 years – Ecofiesta continues to highlight the strong connection our community has with the natural environment and our commitment to a sustainable future.”
The festival will feature more than 80 sustainability-focused market stalls, food and coffee vans, community groups and exhibitors, alongside children’s activities and live music throughout the day.
Workshops and interactive experiences will also inspire all ages, from expert advice on sustainable living to hands-on activities where children can learn through play.
Program highlights:
- Spoonbill Ensemble – this contemporary electronic music band is renowned for its idiosyncratic sound design, richly textured productions and energetic, immersive live performances.
- True Vibenation – combining soul, afrobeat and hip hop with big bass, big beats and live horns, this trio has built a global reputation for their infectious live shows.
- Formidable Vegetable – from Glastonbury to the United Nations, this popular Western Australian festival band will deliver a unique performance the whole family can enjoy.
- Loni Fitzpatrick – a celebrated harpist and singer known for her exceptional musicality and versatility, and one of Australia’s most sought-after harpists.
- Raconteurs – funky, fun and full of Ska, this original outfit is guaranteed to get the crowd moving.
- Cloud 9 – the Kuranda-based roots band brings fresh, homegrown reggae, style and soul.
Workshop and activity highlights:
- Composting with Costa – Australia’s favourite garden gnome Costa and local compost queen Jaide return to share practical tips on growing food with humour and humus.
- Connecting the Watts – learn how to integrate solar, battery storage and an EV, plus other tips to make sense of renewable energy.
- Lifestyle Medicine – local health practitioner Daniel Schmid explores what health means and how personal wellbeing connects with the health of the planet.
- Connected communities – Maree Grenfell from Once Upon Tomorrow explains how simple actions can strengthen neighbourhood connections and help build a thriving Cairns.
- Free movie screening of “Ocean” by Sir David Attenborough.
- Free kids’ activities including clown and circus shows, beatbox and freestyling workshops, cardboard cubby building, clay play, frond weaving, mini golf, a jumping castle, Fairy Jenny treasure hunt, storytimes, face painting and more.
Cairns Regional Council thanks its valued Ecofiesta sponsors for 2026: CleanCo Queensland, NBN Co, Skyrail, CAFNEC, Ocean Freedom, Lotsa Print and GBRMPA Reef Guardian Councils.
