Parrtjima – A Festival in Light saw thousands of visitors over the opening weekend as tourists from all over flocked to the Red Centre.
Opening night of the iconic Territory 10-day festival recorded more than 3000 attendances, the second highest opening night since Parrtjima began in 2016.
Across the entire opening weekend the festival attracted another near record with 8000 people making their way to Alice Springs Desert Park to witness an array of light installations, artworks, performances, music, and talks.
Highlights of opening weekend included a high-energy performance by Jeremy Whiskey and the unique First Nations sound of Bunna Lawrie and Coloured Stone.
Casii Williams opened the popular event with her special song during the Opening Ceremony and award-winning singer-songwriter Shellie Morris also took to the stage.
One of this year’s new initiatives, Late Night feat. Parrtjima, in collaboration with the Alice Springs Town Council, kicked off the action on Thursday, 11 April, bringing to the CBD a fun program for all the family.
Another new addition in 2024 is The Desart and ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Indigenous Business Network Buy Blak Market. The three-night popular marketplace showcased food and products from Aboriginal businesses and art centres.
Parrtjima 2024 will run until 21 April, to find out more about the 2024 program and to register for the event for free, visit
Quotes attributed to Chief Minister, Eva Lawler:
“The Red Centre has come alive once again as Parrtjima’s opening weekend went from strength to strength leaving a positive impact on local communities and our economy – with 8000 visitors attending the festival.
“Congratulations to all involved in facilitating Parrtjima 2024, it has been a major success so far drawing crowds from all over the country and even the world.”
Quotes attributed to Minister for Major Events, Brent Potter:
“It has been brilliant to see near record numbers of people roll into Alice Springs once again for the most incredible light show in the world.
“Visitors from near and far walked into the festival over the weekend and created an incredibly positive atmosphere, celebrating performers and speakers sharing their stories, talents, and traditions.”
Quotes from Parrtjima Curator Rhoda Roberts AO:
“Parrtjima is about sharing Aboriginal culture and this year’s theme tells the story of how everything that surrounds us is connected and shapes us all.”
Northern Territory Government
