Discover the Best Events in Darwin: A Fun-Loving Bucket List for Adults
If there’s one thing I love about the NT, it’s the fact that I can be at a world-class arts & entertainment festival one minute, and a boat race on beer cans the next.
After attending numerous events in the NT that left me thinking, “this is why the NT is so great,” I decided to create an NT events bucket list. These are the experiences I always recommend to people, the ones you simply have to go to at least once!
MUSIC & ARTS
BASSINTHEGRASS is the Territory’s biggest and longest-running music festival, and it’s the perfect way to kickstart your Dry Season every May. This year’s lineup includes international artist Macklemore, iconic Aussie bands Jet and Bliss N Eso, and dance/club favorites Bag Raiders and What So Not.
For local emerging artists, the DARWIN FRINGE is a must-visit. Taking place a month earlier than the Darwin Festival, it serves as a mecca for talented local artists.
If you’re interested in ethically purchasing Indigenous textiles and amazing artwork from over 70 Indigenous-owned art centers, don’t miss the DARWIN ABORIGINAL ART FAIR in August. It’s held at the Convention Centre and offers a wide range of incredible art. My advice is to go on the first day to get a feel for the fair, and then return on the second day to make your purchases.
The DARWIN FESTIVAL is a city-wide celebration of music, art, and performance that takes over Darwin in August. Make sure to spend a night in Festival Park and book at least one show you’re really excited about, as well as one that seems completely random. Trust me, it’s worth it!
Over the past seven years, the DARWIN STREET ART FESTIVAL has transformed the city with over 100 murals. You can download the app and follow the Street Art trail all year round, but witnessing the artists paint during the festival is truly special.
For an authentic NT experience, grab a ticket to EAST ARNHEM LIVE. This community festival showcases both national and local bands and promises a fantastic music show.
ONLY IN THE NT
Some Territorians have a unique excuse for drinking beers all year round – they’re preparing for the BEER CAN REGATTA. Join the fun at Mindil Beach on a sunny Sunday in July and marvel at the quirkiness of this event. And don’t forget to stay for dinner at the Mindil Markets!
If you’ve ever imagined yourself in Priscilla Queen of the Desert while doing the Kings Canyon walk, then you can’t miss FAB ALICE. This annual showcase of Drag, Family, Comedy, and Cabaret events features a street party and a gala. The journey from Darwin to Alice Springs is part of the adventure, but be sure to pack your thermals!
The FINKE DESERT RACE is known as one of the most challenging off-road races in the world. Bikes and buggies race through red dirt, sand, and spinifex in Central Australia. If you’re up for the challenge, join a crew and camp down the track for the ultimate experience.
FOOD & DRINK
The DARWIN COCKTAIL FESTIVAL at the Ski Club is the perfect excuse to enjoy a cocktail in the sunshine. Darwin’s best cocktail bars come together in one very ‘Darwin’ spot for an afternoon of fun under palm trees by the water.
October brings the DARWIN LAKSA FESTIVAL, which coincides with peak sweat season. It’s a fabulous event where everyone indulges in laksa-flavored everything. Add having laksa for breakfast, lunch, and dinner to your bucket list. Plus, rumor has it that eating laksa when it’s hot actually cools you down!
If you have any events you think we should add to our bucket list, let us know @wearelocals_darwin.
About the Author: Kate Dinning
“Darwin’s 2024 event bucket list” is an article written by Kate Dinning, a passionate local who loves exploring the vibrant events scene in the NT. With her informative style and fun-loving tone, Kate shares her top recommendations for unforgettable experiences in Darwin.
Conclusion
Discovering the best events in Darwin is an exciting journey filled with music, art, unique experiences, and delicious food and drinks. Whether you’re attending the iconic BASSINTHEGRASS music festival or immersing yourself in the vibrant street art scene during the Darwin Street Art Festival, there’s something for everyone on this bucket list. Don’t miss out on the quirky Beer Can Regatta or the challenging Finke Desert Race. And of course, indulge in the Darwin Cocktail Festival and the Darwin Laksa Festival for a taste of the city’s culinary delights. Follow this bucket list and create unforgettable memories in the NT!
George Barham, an accomplished journalist and avid gambling enthusiast, serves as the esteemed Editor-in-Chief at fly-to-australia.com, Australia’s leading source for comprehensive gambling news and insights. With an unwavering passion for both the written word and the ever-evolving world of betting and gaming, George brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the helm of our editorial team.
