Entertainment
13 February, 2026
Poignant time for Chinese folk
CAIRNS’ Chinese New Year celebrations are marking 150 years – the same as that of the city.
They start 13 February through until March, marking the ‘Year of the Fire Horse’ with a full program of cultural events across the city.
The Cairns and District Chinese Association’s celebrations are launched on Tuesday 17 February with the welcoming of the lunar new year at the Cairns Esplanade from 6pm. The evening will feature cultural performances and firecrackers, continuing a tradition dating back to the late 1800s.
Events will run throughout the city in the lead-up to the main celebrations, with organisers inviting the wider community to take part.
A contemporary street food festival will be held at the Hilton Cairns on Friday 13 February and will be open to the public.
The largest celebrations will take place on Saturday 7 March at the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon Plaza.
The program will include traditional Chinese lion, dragon and dance performances, Chinese opera, drumming and additional cultural activities. Food and market stalls will line the walkways and the day will conclude with a fireworks finale.
CADCAI president Nathan Lee Long said the Chinese New Year had been celebrated in Cairns for more than 150 years.
“Chinese New Year celebrations have been part of Cairns for more than 150 years,” he said.
“We look forward to continue to share these celebrations with residents and visitors of Cairns.
“This year’s line-up of events and entertainment builds on recent years with an extended program and a Chinese opera group from Sydney,” Mr Lee Long said.
“We are grateful for the support provided by all levels of government and the local business community.”
Federal Member for Leichhardt Matt Smith MP said the celebrations reflected the long-standing contribution of the Chinese community to the region.
“Da jia hao. I want to wish you all a very happy and prosperous Year of the Horse,” he said.
“The Chinese community has been an important, integral part of Cairns’ story and continues to do so.”
A full program of events is available on the CADCAI website: www.bit.ly/4aGmbFS
