If you're a fan of high-speed action and all things motoring, then get familiar with the NT's exciting calendar of motor events.

With its wide open spaces and rugged terrain, Darwin and Alice Springs are home to some of the most thrilling car events in the country.

V8 Supercars

16 - 18 June

The V8 Supercars in Darwin is one of the most highly anticipated events on the Australian motorsport calendar. Darwin is the perfect setting for the high-octane action, with the Hidden Valley Raceway offering an exciting and challenging circuit for the drivers to tackle.

The V8 Supercars attracts thousands of fans from across the country, who come to watch some of the best drivers in the world battling it out. With top teams and drivers competing in intense races across the weekend, the event never fails to deliver thrills, spills and heart-stopping moments. In addition to supercar racing, you can also watch Nitro Up North, the grand finale of the Burson Auto Parts Australian Top Fuel Championship, where Top Fuel dragsters take to the track.

Keep your eyes peeled for the 2023 entertainment schedule too.

Photos: Tourism NT/NT Major Events Company

Red Centre NATS

1 - 3 September

Red Centre NATS is a more than just a motoring event - it's a celebration of Australian car culture. Held annually in Alice Springs, Red Centre NATS features top of the range street machines, elite show cars, hot rods, classics and more. You can expect a mix of drag racing, burnout competitions, cruises and displays. It's also an opportunity for people to show off their vehicles and connect with like-minded automotive enthusiasts. Red Centre NATS also offers plenty of entertainment with live music, food and drinks stalls, and a family zone. 

Photos: Tourism NT

Finke Desert Race

9 - 12 June

The Finke Desert Race in Alice Springs is one of the most grueling off-road races in the world. Held annually over the Queen's Birthday long weekend, this two day event sees competitors tackle a challenging track through the remote Australian outback. The race starts and finishes in Alice Springs, with the course taking in rocky terrain, sand dunes and desert scrub.

The event attracts competitors from all over Australia and overseas, including motorbikes, cars, buggies, and trucks. The race is a true test of endurance, with competitors up against not only the terrain but also extreme heat and dust. This iconic desert event is a must-see for any motor enthusiast.

Photos: Finke Desert Race

Something different - Beer Can Regatta & Henley on Todd

Beer Can Regatta - 16 July
This truly unique Top End event takes place annually in Darwin. As the name suggests, the boats in this regatta are made entirely out of empty beer cans. Participants are encouraged to get creative with their designs and decorations, resulting in an impressive display of colourful and quirky vessels. The event also includes a variety of other activities, such as sandcastle building and thong throwing contests. While the main focus is on having fun, the regatta also promotes sustainability by encouraging the reuse of materials that would otherwise go to waste. 

Henley on Todd - 19 August

Unlike traditional regattas, this quirky event takes place on the dry sandy creek bed of the Todd River in Alice Springs. The Todd transforms into a makeshift boat arena for the day for contestants to race bottomless boats - you can either make your boat, or make use of the supplies to craft your own on the day and join in on the fun.