Darwin Events Listings

Asia Pacific OutGames

The OutGames are open to all, regardless of sexual orientation. It bring together lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) athletes from around the world for a celebration of sport, culture and human rights in the spirit of true inclusiveness. Each OutGames has a sport component offering 38 to 45 sport disciplines at Continental and World OutGames level. OutGames include events for everyone, from seasoned athletes to recreational participants. Which sports are included in an OutGames, is determined by both the Host City and GLISA and can be flexible to include sports that are regional or continental favourites. Activities include music, dance and social activities, such as country and western dance, marching bands, concert bands, big bands, colour guard, cheerleading, choral festivals and leather events to name a few. The events range from participatory to observatory and judged and non judged. All OutGames also include Opening and Closing Celebrations.

Australian Superbike Championship

The Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK) is Australia's premier motor cycling championship. With a season built on 7 rounds in 4 States and Territories, bringing together Australia's best riders and leading world class manufactures, this is one event not to miss. The Northern Territory has secured its stake in the Championship with riders making the trek north to Hidden Valley for three days of blistering racing from 19th to 21st April. With corporate facilities available as well as entertainment for the whole family, make a weekend of memories and enjoy all the thrills and spills with Australia's fastest riders. Undisputed King of the Valley Josh Waters is set to return in an attempt to make it four from four in Darwin, and with an exciting line up of on and off track entertainment in the pipelines - make sure the Australian Superbike Championship is in your diary - 19-21 April 2013.

BASSINTHEGRASS 2013

The Territory's biggest music extravaganza attracts some of Australia's biggest bands. BASSINTHEGRASS has grown into one of the biggest events in Darwin, providing entertainment to all age groups with the best of home-grown and interstate bands. The 2013 line up will be released closer to the date. BASSINTHEGRASS is conducted in a safe and friendly environment and a 37-square metre giant screen makes the day and the entertainment event 'bigger'. There are shade structures, food and confectionery stalls. Since the first concert back in 2003, BASSINTHEGRASS has become a 'must see' event on the calendar. Gates open from 11am and the concert concludes around 11pm.

Beyond Religion

"Beyond Religion, the 14th Dalai Lama on the Benefits of Living Ethically" provides thought provoking scope to explore the positive impact of ethical behaviour on ourselves, our loved ones, fellow human beings, communities, countries and ultimately our shared global community. With relevance across all Australian society - the discussion of the benefits of life lived ethically will resonate with individuals, families, academics, educators, medical, legal and commercial professionals, regulators, leaders, business owners, people of all ages and cultural backgrounds.

Christmas Craft Fair

The tactile ARTS annual Christmas Craft Fair is one of Darwin's most anticipated market events, a favourite with locals and visitors. Set amongst the trees in the picturesque grounds surrounding the tactile ARTS building, the market features of 50 stalls selling original handmade work. This is an artisans market, renowned for the range and quality of craft for sale. Stalls including clothing, fabric, pottery, glass, jewellery, mosaics, soap, candles, baskets and weaving, original paintings and prints - it's treasure cove of handcrafts from local artists and craftspeople.

D TOUR 2012

Bringing Dili and Darwin together in music for a night of community, culture and celebration. Featuring Ego Lemos (Timor-Leste) June Mills (Darwin) B2M (Tiwi Islands) "D'Tour is an exciting initiative which link two very close, yet two very different cultural and artistic communities of both Timor Leste and Indigenous Australia" - Mark Grose, Skinnyfish Music

Darwin Boat and Outdoor Show

There is something for everyone at the 2012 Darwin Boat and Outdoor Show, with a huge range of boats and accessories for all boating pursuits, fishing and camping gear, 4WD, camper trailers, bikes and ATV's, communications, gadgets galore, and so much more. There's all the information on where to buy, how to finance and insure, what and how to get involved and where to go. The 2012 Darwin Boat and Outdoor Show is your chance to explore and compare, and with a very special visitor to wow the kids, and special features for Father's Day, It will be a great day out for the whole family to discover so much more about the fantastic Top End outdoor lifestyle. Opening hours are Saturday 9am to 5pm and Sunday 9am to 4pm

Darwin Cup Carnival

Share in the excitement of Darwin's premier horse racing calendar. The picturesque Fannie Bay Racecourse track is one of only a few dirt tracks in operation on the circuit, and the Darwin Cup Day witnesses 20,000 people bursting the rails. Day 1 - Saturday 6 July 2013 HOT 100 Darwin Guineas Day Day 2 - Saturday 13 July 2013 Trans Territory Food Chief Minister's Cup Day Day 3 - Wednesday 17 July 2013 Bridge Toyota Ladies Day Day 4 - Saturday 20 July 2013 SKYCITY NT Derby Day Day 5 - Saturday 27 July 2013 Sky Racing Metric Mile Day Day 6 - Wednesday 31 July 2013 Colemans Printing Race Day Day 7 - Saturday 3 August 2013 bet365 Palmerston Sprint Day Day 8 - Monday 5 August 2013 Carlton Mid Darwin Cup Day .

Darwin Festival

Celebrate the dry season in appropriate style with the 2013 Darwin Festival. From 8 to 25 August the city will be a hive of artistic activity and they want you to join in the fun. Experience art on the walls, inside theatres, around the streets and under the stars in an action-packed program that features Territory talent alongside electrifying artists from across the nation and around the world. There's something for everyone whatever your artistic taste.

Darwin Lions Beer Can Regatta

A regatta like no other, with boats primarily built entirely from aluminium beer cans. This annual Darwin family event is a spectacle for all who line Mindil Beach and cheer on the home-made boats of cans, plastic soft drink bottles and cartons, as they flounder and sink in the shallows. There are loads of activities and competitions for everyone to do which are held throughout the day. The Mindil Beach Markets will be trading all day as well. The first Beer Can Regatta was an attempt to clean up the litter (mainly beer cans) in and around Darwin. Paul Rice-Chapman and Lutz Frankenfeld jointly developed the idea of a Beer Can Regatta, and things have gone on annually from there. The inaugural Darwin beer can race in 1974 was an instant success, and has developed into a major event with boat entries ranging from 1 to 12 metres and some even with secret weaponry. Entry is by donation, with proceeds going to projects of the combined Lions Clubs of Darwin. Over AUD150,000.00 has been raised over the last 6 years.

Darwin Pride Festival

Join the colour and community of the Darwin Pride Festival - the annual celebration of lifestyle for the gay, lesbian, bi-sexual, transsexual and intersexual community. The busy festival program includes a diverse range of events, from the opening night party to the closing Rainbow Family Fun Day. Popular events include the White Wedding Dance Party, Love Boat Sunset Harbour Cruise, Sunset on the Rocks, Art of Pride, Barefoot Bowls, Pride Film Night, Tranny and Trivia Game Show Night and more. The Darwin Pride Festival is typical of the Northern Territory's capital city - irreverent and imbued with a whacky sense of fun. For more information, including a full listing of events and ticket prices, go to the Darwin pride website.

Darwin to Ambon Yacht Race

Head to Darwin Harbour to catch the spectacle of the fleet of yachts setting out to race to Indonesia. One of the most anticipated events on Darwin's sailing calendar, the Darwin to Ambon Yacht Race attracts large crowds to the harbour foreshore to watch the action, and enjoy the dry season sunshine and the festival atmosphere. Find a vantage point from which to see the colourful sailing vessels starting their sailing adventure that ends in Ambon, Indonesia. The cool dry season breezes fill the spinnakers of yachts poised on the starting line. With the crack of the start gun, the race is on. The Darwin Ambon Yacht Race and rally starts at 11am. This 600-nautical mile race to the capital of the Spice Islands attracts blue water sailors from Australia and the world. Skippers who wish to enter should contact the Darwin to Ambon Yacht Race Committee or refer to their website. Race entry fees apply.

Darwin Waterfront Harmony Day Soiree

Celebrate Darwin's thriving and successful multicultural community by joining the picnic atmosphere at the Darwin Waterfront. There will be food and entertainment plus you can even make a floating lantern and be a part of the flotilla. Harmony Day is a chance for everyone to celebrate the cultural diversity , and our great Territory lifestyle. The Territory is fortunate to be a unique blend of the oldest living culture on earth and migrants from all over the world. Our diversity makes the Territory an interesting and vibrant place to live and our acceptance of people regardless of their background is something we can all be very proud of. The Territory is truly a place where everybody belongs. The list of performances and activities on the day is huge - however, this event is not about entertainment alone. It is really about communities coming together to celebrate harmony. The festival starts a 4pm to 8.30pm.

Dragonfly Craft Fair

Discover unique hand-made items while enjoying the views of Darwin’s harbour. Territory Craft, located in the museum grounds, is the venue for the annual Dragonfly Craft Fair. Share stories and experiences, and talk to the people who make the unique items on display and on sale. Capture your creativity by enrolling in a workshop that Territory Craft organises. Enjoy a great day out watching demonstrations and purchasing items that you won't be able to purchase at any market in town. There are around 50 craft stalls as well as food and refreshments.

Fist Full of Films Festival

Fist Full of Films is the Territory's home-grown short film festival. It is a celebration of the work of today's Northern Territory filmmakers. In 2012 Fist Full of Films will be held from the 2nd to the 3rd of November at the Darwin Entertainment Centre. The FATANT Territory Showcase will kick off the festival on Friday 2nd of November - with screenings and experts from some of the best Territory made films over the past year. However, the big night for our short filmmakers will be on Saturday the 3rd of November with the Fist Full of Films finalist screening and Galah Award presentation. So for those filmmakers who have been braving the Territory sun and red dust to tell your stories it's time to wrap up your post production and get your films in! Submission deadline is Wednesday October 10th 5pm

Frillies Fair 2013

Event's held include EUROPA 12 to 24hr Adventure Race, Frillies Final Sprint and Fragle Fast Track. Adventure Racing is one of Australia's fastest growing sport with multiple disciplines included in every race. Navigation, mountain biking, abseiling, paddling and mystery disciplines keep you on your toes, all whilst visiting unknown pockets of Darwin's coastal landscape. There are day and night transitions and cognitive challenges. Corporate Teams, adventurer(s) and the elite, represent their teams name from around the country and internationally represent their team. True Adventure racing principles are - teams are made up of three or four competitors who must complete all disciplines simultaneously. Please refer to their website for further information.

Greek Glenti

Experience the largest show of ethnic celebration in the Northern Territory calendar. The Greek Glenti, held at historic Bicentennial Park in Darwin, is a fun and vibrant festival where the Greek community shares their culture, food, wine, dance and music with locals and visitors. The Glenti consists of local and interstate entertainment and acts and besides being able to eat Greek food, you can see people wearing traditional Greek clothing, be enlightened by the Greek culture, listen to Greek music, and see traditional dancing and much more.

Mindil Beach Sunset Markets

Experience the atmosphere and flavours of the famous sunset markets. Enjoy the tropical night air at Darwin’s Mindil Beach Sunset Markets every Thursday and Sunday evening between May and October. The markets have a multitude of stalls offering international cuisine, arts, crafts and entertainment. Their unique combination of great food and an electric atmosphere make a visit a must do. The market boasts up to 60 food stalls featuring cuisine from Turkey, Greece, Sri Lanka, South America, North Africa, India and all over South East Asia. Enjoy a picnic dinner on the beach whilst experiencing a spectacular tropical sunset. Afterwards, take time to look around the stalls which include masseurs, tarot readers, leatherworkers, artists, tailors and jewellers. While browsing, listen to the free live street theatre, magicians and an array of local and international buskers.

National Indigenous Music Awards

The National Indigenous Music Awards [NIMAs] are a celebration of Indigenous music that honours contemporary and traditional artists. The NIMAs are unlike other Award events, it is quite possibly the only public awards ceremony that has more music programmed into it than awards presentations! The Gardens Amphitheatre is a perfect 'nature spot', fitting in with what the event is about: nature, life, human-ness, inter-tribal representations. The NIMAs represent Indigenous people and their music, in their language and on their terms. It is about family and community. Food and drinks will be available - this is a no BYO (bring your own alcohol) event. Seating is limited, so don't forget to pack a rug.

National Tree Day

National Tree Day, proudly sponsored by Toyota, was co-founded in 1996 by Planet Ark and Olivia Newton John. It has now grown into Australia's largest community tree planting and nature protection event. Celebrating its 18th year in 2013, Planet Ark is calling on all active Australian and tourists to help them plant one million new native trees and shrubs across the country. National Tree Day is a 'call to action' for everyone to put their hands in the earth and give back to the community. Each year about 300,000 people volunteer their time to engage in environmental activities that educate individuals about the world around them. It's a day to venture outdoors and get to know the community, and most importantly, to have fun.

Nightcliff Markets

Unwind and feel the ambience of the Nightcliff Markets. Set in the attractive Nightcliff Shopping Centre the markets are an ideal place for a lazy Sunday coffee or a cool and refreshing tropical fruit salad. A casual wander around Nightcliff Markets will likely unearth an unusual bargain or a unique gift for a friend. Stalls display a wide variety of original crafts such as copper sculptures, fairy dresses, hemp designer clothing and traditional Asian crafts. Browse through the many stalls specialising in recycled products like hardware, furniture, clothing, gardening, compact discs, books and collectables. There is also massage, reflexology, card reading and many more attractions. For the less energetic there is plenty of shade and space to sit and enjoy the entertainment from local artists performing on the central stage. The markets are open from 8am to 2pm every Sunday.

Nightcliff Seabreeze Festival

A big day of entertainment (first Saturday of May) followed by a week of performances, events and activities for all ages. The family-friendly activities, events and performances around the Nightcliff foreshore welcomes the commencement of the Dry Season. All events are free on the 'Big' day and there are opportunities for the whole family to participate. The festival kicks off on Saturday with six music stages, art and dance, a free family festival of music and culture including the Seabreeze Artspace Awards, the Seabreeze Sand Sculpture Award and featuring music and dance from Indigenous Australian, to many styles from the Pacific, Africa, Middle East, Europe, Asia and India. There will be food stalls, community stalls, indigenous stories and craft workshops and fun for all the family. Some workshops during the week following have an entry cost.

NT City 2 Surf Fun Run Series

Whether you are an experienced runner, recreational jogger or a social walker have some fun, be active and join this community event. The City2Surf Fun Run starts at Mindil Beach and follows a designated route out to East Point and back for the 12.7 kilometre course. The 4 kilometre course also starts at Mindil Beach with a designated route to the shoulder of East Point Road and back to Mindil Beach. Everyone is welcome to participate or if you would prefer, join the crowd and cheer all entrants across the finish line. Please note - entry fee applies to participants only, spectators are free-of-charge.

Orchid Spectacular

The Northern Territory's Orchid Spectacular is the largest annual orchid show in Australia. An exhibition of tropical blooms at their finest, it is also a chance to see and find out more about bromeliads, gingers, heliconias and many other beautiful plants. You will be able to purchase orchids and other plants from nurseries and clubs, and ask questions of orchids specialists. There are potting demonstrations by orchid, bonsai and bromiliade growers throughout the weekend, and demonstrations of flower arranging. Enter the orchid and photographic competitions, both of which are open to everyone and free. The orchid competition has over 60 classes to be judged, including a floral art section, and the photographic competition has six classes to be judged, including a 'postcard-size' category. Soak up the relaxed tropical atmosphere and enjoy a Devonshire tea or food and refreshments available.

Parap Markets

Tantalise your senses with a mixture of Asian cuisine and the aroma of fresh coffee. The Parap Village Market is a great place to shop and a favourite among locals and visitors alike. Browse the markets, winding through stalls of local produce, local arts and crafts, entertainment and delicious cuisine from around the world. This Saturday morning market has become an institution and ritual among locals who just couldn’t survive a weekend without their Saturday morning laksa, satay prawns or fresh tropical smoothie. The markets are open from 8am to 2pm evey Saturday.

Penfolds Winemakers Dinner

Book your table in the SKYCITY Grand Ballroom for the Penfolds Winemakers Dinner on Friday 26 October. Experience an unforgettable evening of entertainment and education on both food and wine, how to perfectly match them and meet the brilliance behind the science of winemaking. SKYCITY Executive Chef, Karl Ewald, has collaborated with the award winning Penfolds team to delight you with an exquisite 5 course menu and matching wine sensations. Tickets $185 per person, to book contact 8943 8922 or email: boxoffice@skycitydarwin.com.au

Rotary Club of Darwin North Championship Rodeo

Dust, daring deeds and determination will once again herald the 2012 Darwin Championship Rodeo. The rodeo is staged at Robbie Robbins Reserve at Berrimah over two exciting nights of skills, thrills and spills starting at 6pm sharp. Some of Australia's leading riders are drawn to Darwin to match their skills against these beasts. Eight seconds of raw courage is the required time needed for these bareback bull riders to 'master' the bull in the open bull ride section. There'll be food and drink stalls available on both nights as well as plenty of entertainment for the kids. And of course, the ever-reliable and brave rodeo clown(s) will be there. Miss Rodeo Canada and Miss Rodeo Australia will also be there. To purchase tickets online, please go to the Rotary Club of Darwin North website. Rodeo presented by Rotary Club of Darwin North in conjunction with the Australian Professional Rodeo Association.

Royal Darwin Show

It's Show Time, so come and 'Experience the Best of the Territory'. The annual Royal Darwin Show is the NT's largest community event and this year will be bigger and better than ever! Come down on Thursday 26th-Saturday 28th July from 9am-10pm and be thrilled by the great range of free entertainment for all ages, along with fascinating displays, exhibits and demonstrations. Make the 2013 Royal Darwin Show an essential on your travel itinerary. Come see the very best of the Territory's animals and livestock, from big Brahman cattle, pigs and goats to dogs and ducks. Immerse yourself in the vibrant colours of the Territory's tropical flowers, horticulture and arts and craft displays. You'll love watching the exciting spear-throwing competition and marvel at the array of baked goods, jams, relishes and home brew. See equestrian events, vintage cars and beaut utes and listen to live music by Territory entertainers. Take a sideshow ride and be captivated by the fireworks finale!

RSPCA Million Paws Walk

This walk is Darwin's biggest day out for animal lovers and everyone is welcome to participate, whether you have a dog or not. It's a family fun day, where you and your pet can mingle, chat and celebrate your love of animals. There will be activities, live entertainment, food and drink stalls and fun competitions all day long. Funds raised are for the Darwin RSPCA to help care for the animals they receive throughout the year. It's easy just register your team online, ask friends, co workers and family for support to raise funds, put your walking shoes on and grab your four legged friend for a fun day out. Registrations will be from 8am with the walk commencing at 9am. There is a one or three kilometre walk with the event finishing up at 1pm.

Santos Opening Concert

The Santos Opening Concert is one of the most highly anticipated events of the year and is a fixture in the Darwin Festival calendar, a free concert style celebration of diverse musical talent from the Northern Territory and across Australia. The Santos Opening Concert continues to grow every year offering Darwin Festival audiences a wonderful and unique experience each year. The Santos Opening Concert attracts a strong local crowd as well as interstate and international visitors at The Amphitheatre in George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens. The lineup always offers something that appealed to everyone, our large multicultural audience of friends and families with their camp chairs, eskies and picnic rugs while the young demographic dance the night away bare foot under the stars.

Shannons Motoring Extravaganza

A chance for car and motor cycle enthusiasts, to view the history of motor cars and cycles. Darwin Showgrounds will be a hub of excitement with over 400 vintage, veteran, classic, exotic and new motor cars and motor cycles on display, with ages ranging from 1910 to 2012. Food and drinks will be available over the weekend, children under 12 years of age free of charge. This event is promoted and organised by Shannons Insurance as a community service. All funds raised go to the Rotary Club of Darwin Community Projects.

SKYCITY Triple Crown, V8 Supercars Championship Series

Come along and witness the battle of the V8 Supercars when they roar back to Darwin. The Hidden Valley round of the Skycity Triple Crown, V8 Supercar Championship Series is one of the largest sporting events of the year in Darwin. Families flock to Hidden Valley to watch their heroes, Lowndes, Whincup, Tander, Winterbottom, Davison and Kelly race against one another on a fast, but picturesque course less than 10 kilometres from the city centre. Mums, dads and children urge on these modern juggernauts as they charge bumper to bumper around the tight 2.9 kilometre track that winds between corporate boxes perched on hairpin bends and grassed public viewing areas on straights and corners. Screams and cheers mingle with the throaty high-powered roar that only V8 Supercars can deliver. It sounds like the whole world is here.

Super 15s Brumbies v Western Force

Brumbies players are preparing for their annual migration to the Top End with the team set to face the Western Force on Saturday 1st of February 2013 at Rugby Park, Darwin in a pre-season Super Rugby match. The game is sure to be a highlight of the sporting season in Darwin as the two sides show their skills and try to stamp their mark of dominance on the impending season. In the days surrounding the match, the Brumbies will be engaging remote and urban communities across the Northern Territory.

Taste of the Tropics

Taste of the Tropics is the Precinct's first beer and food event featuring Paul Mercurio and 'that beer bloke' Ian Kingham. Join us for an afternoon as we pair delicious food with craft beer. Tickets just $95.00 and includes six flight of craft beer and six courses of food. Over 18 event only.

Tempted

The exhibition is the culmination of over two years' work by local jeweller Eric Nunn - a treasure trove of unique, hand-crafted silver jewellery featuring semi-precious stones such as opal, lapis lazuli and malachite. Eric's work has been described by many as "simple and stylish", but more often as "stunning". The vivid colours of the jewellery will be complemented by textiles made locally by Lillian Smith.

Territory Day

Territory Day is one of the most spectacular events on the festival calendar. For one day only the Territory lights up in a rainbow of rockets, bangers and Roman candles. Celebrating the anniversary that self governance was handed down to the Territory by the Commonwealth Government, Territorians and visitors alike gather for public fireworks shows. They also compete with one another to produce the most brilliant pyrotechnics display on the only day of the year where people are allowed to light fireworks. Mindil Beach in Darwin is a popular vantage point to watch the spectacular. With delicious food from the markets, people can picnic on the sand as they watch the fireworks burst and sparkle over the Timor Sea.

The Italian Festival

A heady mixture of food, drinks, art, culture and wonderful entertainment, the festival celebrates all things Italian within our community. The rich history, colour and spirit of Italy will showcased on this special day. The public will delight in delicious Italian food, perfect coffee and sweet gelati. Italian beverages will be flowing and food demonstrations with tastings of Italian products will delight everyone. Fashion Parades, roving entertainers, art exhibitions, Italian cars and motorbikes and a photographic history of Darwin's Italian community will be on display. Combine this with children's games and activities and local and interstate entertainers performing throughout the day on the main stage and you have a festival to remember.

TIO NTFL Grand Final

This is Australia's Premier Wet Season Football Competition, the Northern Territory Football League comes to an end with the ultimate prize in Territory Footy on offer. With the dazzle and pace of the reigning Premiers the Tiwi Bombers, can the other NTFL Clubs catch them? Wait and see in March 2013.

Tiwi Island Grand Final

The iconic Tiwi Island Grand Final will be held the day after the NTFL grand final on Bathurst Island. Noted as one of the top 100 Australian Tourism experiences come and witness the passion of AFL in its heart land and the birth place of the names like Rioli and Long.

Tropical Garden Spectacular

The Tropical Garden Spectacular and Top End Sustainable Living Festival has long been a highlight of the Top End calendar. This year's theme 'Garden Party' will enhance the relaxing, inspirational, informative and entertaining weekend. They will be hosting the biggest morning tea, tree climbing championships, landscape Olympics, wise water workshops and wide variety of other activities for all ages. Delicious food and refreshments will be available from the community garden cafe and other local food stalls and a garden bar. A multitude of local businesses and organisations will exhibit at stalls and displays along with workshops and demonstrations along with local and interstate gardening celebrities. The Tropical Garden Spectacular and Top End Sustainable Living Festival showcase the wonderful outdoor lifestyle in the Top End and what all Territorians and visitors to this part of the world can do to contribute to an environmentally friendly and sustainable future enjoyed by all. .

World Solar Challenge - Darwin to Adelaide

A road race like no other, the World Solar Challenge participants will traverse more than 3,000 kilometres of the Australian continent from tropical Darwin to Adelaide, in cars powered by only the sun. The 'Challenge', to design and build a car capable of crossing Australia on the power of daylight. The four classes are: Challenger Class Solar EVs - designed primarily for efficiency rather than comfort or practicality. Cruiser Class Solar EVs - are designed primarily for practicality. They are designed to carry two or more occupants. Adventure Class - is for entry level teams wishing to campaign Solar EVs built for previous International Solarcar Federation events but do not meet the regulations for Challenger Class. Evolution Class - is designed for vehicles which have been designed, equipped or modified to demonstrate a significant reduction in environmental impact. These may be practical or concept vehicles.