Be Social Fest 4 To Bring Culture And Creativity To Cairns
“Cairns is already a tourism hot spot... Ultimately, we want to put it firmly on the map as the home of a major national festival,” remarks Be Social Fest Director Michael Delaney.
Be Social Fest (Credit: Mitch Lowe)
The past few years have been tough for music festivals around the country, and yet, while many renowned Aussie festivals are struggling and shrinking, one Queensland champion is celebrating three years of exponential growth with a brand new home.
Originally based in Mackay, Be Social Fest is heading to the Cairns Showgrounds for its fourth instalment with more than 22 international and local acts in tow, including headliners Matt Corby, Bliss n Eso, Baauer, and Petit Biscuit.
Director Michael Delaney says the relocation is all about making the festival more accessible and memorable.
“Cairns is already a tourism hot spot, with direct flights in and out of every major city. Ultimately, we want to put it firmly on the map as the home of a major national festival,” he said.
Not just any major national festival, at that – Be Social Festival aims to be remembered for its bid to break down barriers of disconnection, replacing the cliche sea of phone screens often seen in candid festival shots with the ultimate seaside backdrop.
“We create moments that pull people into the present — from immersive art and interactive bingo cards that get strangers talking, to community-led workshops and pop-up performances that surprise you when you least expect it,” Delaney said.
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“Our activations are designed to spark interaction and give people a story to tell. You can wander markets filled with local makers and artisans, hit the food stalls for regional and global flavours, and get your adrenaline fix on show rides.”
Locals and international attendees alike agree that the combination of music, local culture, and world-class environment makes Be Social Fest truly unique.
“It doesn’t stop at the gates, either,” Delaney added. “We encourage people to explore Cairns’ markets, cultural experiences, and of course, the Great Barrier Reef and rainforests, so connections continue long after the last set.”
With so much to offer, it’s little wonder why festival organisers are so confident in ongoing growth projections and in the positive influence on the local economy.
“We’re expecting 6,000–8,000 people through the gates this year, and about 35% of that crowd will travel in from outside the region, injecting an estimated $1.7 million into the local economy — plus $1.2 million in spending from locals,” Delaney said.
“It’s a big boost, but it’s also about putting Cairns back on the map for travellers who may have forgotten just how special it is.”
Not only is Be Social Fest on the map for year four, but it’s in growth mode, thanks to partnerships with local businesses, artists and organisations.
“Sustainability for us is about embedding the festival into the community long-term. Our growth-oriented networking program means financial sustainability for the event, economic benefits for the region, and something the community can be proud of year after year,” Delaney said.
Ultimately, organisers are betting on the community focus to keep the festival in growth mode for years to come – and it’s a bet Delaney makes with great confidence.
“If the people of Cairns feel ownership of Be Social Fest, it will keep evolving. That means continually bringing in new partners, fresh talent, and unique experiences, while making sure the festival benefits the region economically, culturally, and socially year after year.”
Be Social Festival will take place at the Cairns Showgrounds on Friday, 24 and Saturday, 25 October 2025. Find out more and grab your tickets here.
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