dancers at cairns indigenous art fair

Things to do

Culture & Indigenous Attractions

A timeless look into Arts & Culture

Tropical North Queensland is a hotbed of artistic talent, a melting pot of Indigenous and contemporary art forms that represent the rich tapestry of cultures. Stumble across world-famous and unknown artists, feel goosebumps as Indigenous tours breathe life into ancient stories, soak up the connection to country through dance or be swept into the electric atmosphere of an iconic event like the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair.

Whichever way you turn, a discovery awaits. The only region with two distinct Indigenous cultures (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander), Tropical North Queensland offers a dazzling array of opportunities to dive headfirst into a cultural immersion. Learn about the rainforest during a bush tucker walk, take a traditional fishing lesson or be “Welcomed to Country” in an ancient ritual.

The oral traditions of Indigenous communities has resulted in a thriving performing arts scene. As the world’s oldest continuous living cultures, stories dating back 30,000 years are told through the beat of the warup drum and staccato of clap sticks, and given contemporary twists by a new generation of performers.

Up for an art crawl on an epic scale? From sophisticated coastal galleries featuring modern art to remote outposts exhibiting pieces direct from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, the range of Indigenous and non-Indigenous art forms are as intriguing as the places you’ll find them.

Showcasing Aboriginal & Torres Strait Island fashion at Cairns Indigenous Art Fair

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