The Northern Territory is home to rich and diverse Aboriginal culture, which has been shaped by tens of thousands of years of history and traditions. There is a deep connection to the land, sea and sky, and diverse Aboriginal cultures across the whole of the NT. 

Throughout the year, the Top End is host to an inspiring mix of Aboriginal art and culture events, showcasing the talents and traditions of the First Nations people in the Northern Territory and across Australia.

Garrmalang Festival

24 - 28 May 2023

This three day event is held on Larrakia Country in Darwin, and is Australia’s only major arts event led by First Nations people. The festival is the traditional name of what is now known as the Darwin CBD - Garrmalang.

Garrmalang Festival showcases talent from all corners of the country, including dance, comedy, music, talks, art exhibitions and pop-up market stalls. View the full program here. 

Tip: Garrmalang will be at the Darwin Entertainment Centre which is right next to the Darwin Esplanade. Jump on a Neuron Scooter after the festival and explore the Esplanade and Darwin Waterfront.

Photo: Tourism NT

Barunga Festival

9 - 12 June 2023

This immersive festival celebrates Aboriginal music, culture, art and sport in the remote community of Barunga - home of the Bagala people. Barunga is located about 80km south-east of Katherine, and the festival is a unique opportunity to visit and engage with an Indigenous community. Held annually in early June, Barunga Festival features a diverse program, from storytelling and bush medicine workshops to spear throwing and football games. 

If you want to stay in the community of Barunga (which we recommend doing for the experience), you’ll need to pack your camping gear as you won’t find any other accommodation options. Alternatively, you could stay in Katherine or Mataranka and make the trip in each day. 

Tip: While you're in Katherine region, explore what else it has to offer. Check out Nitmiluk Gorge, Leliyn (Edith Falls), or Bitter Springs.

Photo: Tourism NT

Garma Festival

4 - 7 August

Garma Festival is one of the most significant cultural events in Australia, celebrating the culture and life of the Yolngu people in remote north east Arnhem Land. Hosted by the Yothu Yindi Foundation, the festival's mission is to offer a modern platform for the sharing and showcasing of traditional Yolngu systems and culture, in a Yolngu environment. You can expect a display of traditional miny'tji (art), manikay (song), bunggul (dance) and storytelling. 

Garma Festival is unique because it also works as a platform for conversation about issues affecting Yolngu people and other First Nations communities. Political, business, academic and philanthropic leaders come from all corners to take part in these crucial discussions. 

Learn more about the program at the Yothu Yindi Foundation. 

Tip: Base yourself in Nhulunbuy for a few days before or after the festival and explore more of Arnhem Land.

Photos: Garma Festival

Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair

11 - 13 August 2023

Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair (DAAF) is the only national event of its kind where you can purchase such an extensive range of Aboriginal art. DAAF is a chance for people to connect with artists and ethically purchase from over 70 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art centres.

You’ll find wearable art like clothes, jewellery and material, in addition to paintings, sculptures and textiles - with lots of unique creations in between. DAAF is free to attend and you can also experience material demonstrations, artist talks, workshops and more over the weekend. 

Tip: We recommend going to DAAF on the first day it's open (the Friday) to get the best picks.

Photos: Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair

National Indigenous Music Awards

August - date TBC

Held in Darwin, the NIMAs showcase the very best of Indigenous music in Australia, from emerging artists to established legends. The NIMAs are more than just an awards night; they are testament to the power of music as a tool for cultural expression and storytelling, with performers drawing on both traditional and contemporary influences.

The NIMAS are held annually in August at the Darwin Amphitheatre - one of our favourite venues in Darwin. Sit on the grassy green hill and enjoy the dry season night. 

Tip: The NIMAs are held as a part of the Darwin Festival, so we recommend checking out the program to see what else is on over that time.

Photos: National Indigenous Music Awards