Checked pattern in blue and magenta creating an optical illusion

Download the program

Week one

26–28 June (Mon, Tue, Wed)

Come and ‘SEE’ the Cairns Museum

10:30–11:30 am (Mon, Tue, Wed)

4-12 years

Optical illusions are some of the most enjoyable blends of science, art and history that kids can craft, so join us for a Workshop at the Cairns Museum where we will explore the mind-bending artworks of Victor Vasarely while making our own Whirly-gig and Thaumatrope.

$10 members | $15 non-members

Booking essential – book here

Checked pattern in blue and magenta creating an optical illusion

Week two

5 – 7 July (Wed, Thurs, Fri)

Celebrating NAIDOC Week 2023

10:30–11:30am (Wed, Thurs, Fri)

4-12 years

For Our Elders is the very special theme of NAIDOC Week this year, so come in and make a beautiful artwork to celebrate it. We will use multimedia resources such as stickers and pastels while exploring the way colours interact on black backgrounds, to create beautiful and respectful NAIDOC-inspired artworks to celebrate this amazing week.

$10 members | $15 non-members

Booking essential – book here

colourful painting by Australian first nations people

Daily

NAIDOC Week Activity Booklets

10am–4pm 

Suitable for all ages!

These special booklets contain interesting facts and knowledge about the First Nations peoples of Cairns. Come and learn more about the people who have lived on this land for thousands of years, and challenge yourself to complete the full booklet – finishers will receive a special Certificate of Completion and their photo on the Cairns Museum Facebook page (optional, with parental permission).

Free with entry

No bookings required

3 children reading about Cairns first nations people at a museum exhibition

Kids Audio Tour

10am–4pm 

9+ years

Who’s up for an adventure? Join Pip, Caden and Jules as they bring the Museum to life! BYO device and earphones and get ready for lots of fun and laughs along the way.

Free with entry

No bookings required

BYO headphones & device for download

3 kids and 1 adult trying 20th century phones as part of a historical museum exhibition

Special Colouring-In Pages

10am–4pm 

Suitable for all ages!

If your family is having a break from touring the Cairns Museum on the breezy verandah, why not have a go at completing our seasonal colouring in pages available in the folder next to our wonderful colouring pens/crayons/pencils?

From the winning 2023 NAIDOC Week Poster to the flowers and critters of Cairns in the dry season available to choose from, there’s something for everyone to enjoy colouring in!

Free with entry

No bookings required

kids colouring drawings around table

JCU 50 Treasures Revisited

10am–4pm 

Suitable for all ages!

A selection of 50 Treasures from James Cook University’s collection will be on display this winter holidays, so come in to see them and then have a go at creating your treasure at the TempX Kids Table to add to your personal treasure collection!

Free with entry

No bookings required

Homemade rubber stamp depicting mushroom with red paint on it

Adult assistance is recommended in workshops for children under 7 years.

We thank you for your understanding of our efforts to curate a dynamic, engaging and educational school holiday program.

 
Museum admission times

Monday to Saturday 10am-4pm


General Museum admission prices

Adult: $15
Child (under 14): $6
Family (2 adults + 2 kids): $30
Concession: $12
Members: FREE