From feral sporting events to Aboriginal heritage celebrations, Australia’s Outback Northern Territory has heaps of fantastic events this year. Here’s our pick.
Mindil Beach Sunset Markets – Darwin
• 25 April – 31 October 2013
Mindil Beach is the place to head when the sun sets on Darwin. The famous beachside markets are known for their fantastic atmosphere. There are more than 260 stalls selling a variety of arts and crafts including indigenous art, sculpture, didgeridoos and clothing. There are some tasty food stalls too. The markets are open every Thursday and Sunday evening between April and October.
Barunga Cultural and Sports Festival – Barunga
• 7-10 June 2013
This is one of Australia’s longest-running showcases of Aboriginal culture. Held in the remote Aboriginal community of Barunga over the Queen’s Birthday long weekend, the festival comprises sport, music, traditional dance, didgeridoo workshops, bush tucker and spear throwing demonstrations.
Lions Lasseters Camel Cup – Alice Springs
• 13 July 2013
Brave riders saddle up camels in this slapstick race. Expect to see the unpredictable steeds veer off track, sit down mid race and occasionally reach the finish line! Fun fact – the event was created in 1970 as an unusual way to settle a bet between friends.
Darwin Festival – Darwin
• 11-29 August 2013
For more than two weeks the Northern Territory’s capital city is overcome by an annual celebration of local, national and international performers from the realms of theatre, music, film, dance and comedy. Scheduled in August, the 18-night extravaganza typically enjoys fantastic weather.
ASSA ABLOY Henley-On-Todd Regatta – Alice Springs
• 17 August 2013
An outback’s answer to Henley-on-Thames, this is arguably the Northern Territory’s most iconic event. Bottomless handmade boats “race” down the dried up bed of the Todd River, Flintstone style.
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to Sydney
(Featured image: Northern Territory Australia)
