Darwin Festival is a big deal on the social calendar for all those who live in Darwin and for those who may fly over just for the event and enjoy the Top End at the same time. It's a wonderland of Festival activities from 4-21 August at various venues (downloadable), with an exciting, eclectic, substantial program (downloadable .pdf) that takes advantage of Darwin's delightful dry season weather and spectacular outdoor venues. For ease of viewing, you can also check out the Daily Diary that'll give you snapshot of all happenings at the Festival across the board, across all dates. Get all your ticket info here and get the FAQs here. Perhaps you'll consider making a donation when you purchase your tickets to help shine a light on NT artists.
This unique event reflects Darwin's position at the Top End of Australia, its unique Indigenous and multicultural population and close proximity to Asia, while showcasing some of Australia's finest arts performers, and there are sure going to be some big name entertainers there. Expect local and touring performances and events including outdoor concerts, workshops, theatre, dance music, comedy and cabaret, film and visual arts. During the festival you'll be moving amongst the celebrities as Darwin buzzes with performers, artists, locals and visitors enjoying the vibrant and colourful atmosphere and festivities.
Check out the program on the website and the Facebook events pages. You'd need to be quick though as some events are selling fast. Especially artists like Tim Minchin and the Santos Opening Night Concert Bungul to name a couple. The Opening Night Concert is going to be a doozy at the Darwin Amphitheatre. An hour and a half of entertainment for free. There's no better price than that. Experience the traditional songs, dances and paintings that inspired Gurumul's album Djarimirri (Child of the Rainbow), in a live performance by Yolŋu dancers, songmen and the Darwin Symphony Orchestra.
Also at the Amphitheatre, satirist, provocateur and musical genius Tim Minchin makes his Darwin debut! Live onstage with his band, he'll be performing a set list of material from all corners of his eclectic repertoire. The whole world needs a good laugh and there's no one better to deliver it than someone with wit, charisma and unbelievable musical talent to boot. With a list of hits and accolades under his belt, including being the composer-lyricist of the hit musical Matilda, you don't want to miss his show.
Are you a Friend of the Festival? It's one great way to reap some savings. You'd be entitled to 15% off two tickets per eligible event, free entry for you and one guest to Club Awi and other savings. However, do note that there is no Friends Discount for Tim Minchin. Check out savings you can get through getting a Multipack and Group Bookings as well. If you have accessibility considerations, see here.
Do note that the City of Darwin Teddy Bear's Picnic (a free packed morning of activities designed for the youngsters and the young at heart), Balarr Inyiny, (another free event for the whole family, this epic spectacle of light, movement and sound will transform the night sky), Erth's Prehistoric Picnic (get up close to some life-like ancient creatures remembered in the stories of our First People), Festival Park, and Darwin Amphitheatre are suitable for assisted wheelchair access.
Be sure to scour all the given program links so you can plan the best itinerary ever for your Festival experience. Check out the kids events for the tots in your family and if you're part of a school, take a look at the school group considerations. Stay in touch via social media so you're privy to all updates, or subscribe to the Festival and don't miss a thing. If you're like to really get close to the Festival, you can volunteer.
Did you know you could pre-order a delicious Pony & Sid Antipasto box to enjoy in Festival Park? Order by midday on the day before your show then collect from the Festival Park Main Bar from 5pm on the night. You can order regular, vegetarian, gluten free or gluten free vegetarian boxes for two people. Via the same link, you can also get a little piece of the Festival delivered to you. Get the Festival Fan, Tumbler and Stubby Cooler, or buy a loved one a gift voucher.
