Parrtjima – A Festival in Light Returns to Alice Springs

Parrtjima

Next April, Alice Springs (Mparntwe) will again come alive with light, culture, and innovation as Parrtjima – A Festival in Light returns for its 10th year from 4 to 13 April 2025. Set against the majestic MacDonnell Ranges, the festival brings together Aboriginal culture, art, and high-tech light installations in a unique and breathtaking celebration that showcases the world’s oldest continuous culture.

A Spectacular Fusion of Culture and Technology

As the only Aboriginal light festival of its kind in the world, Parrtjima continues to captivate visitors with its stunning light displays that honour the rich heritage of Central Australia’s Aboriginal peoples. Over ten nights, the festival transforms the landscape into a canvas of vibrant colors and storytelling, using cutting-edge technology to illuminate ancient traditions. The MacDonnell Ranges, over 300 million years old, provide a striking natural backdrop that heightens the beauty and power of the installations.

This year’s festival is a milestone, as Parrtjima celebrates its 10th iteration. With new installations and a once-in-a-lifetime performance by the Darwin Symphony Orchestra, 2025 promises to be the most memorable event yet. The orchestra, part of their Territory Tour, will perform at Desert Park for the first time, adding an unforgettable musical element to the festival.

Celebrating Timelessness

The theme for 2025 is “Timelessness,” a concept that resonates deeply with the Arrernte people, whose culture is central to the festival’s essence. Rhoda Roberts AO, Parrtjima’s Curator, reflects, “Culture transcends time, bridging ancient stories that have shaped us. Parrtjima ensures a space where we all feel special, as the lights illuminate the timeless essence of our culture and our country, Australia.”

This year, the MacDonnell Ranges Light Show will return, alongside the Grounded installations, which have become audience favorites. New works will explore the theme of timelessness, highlighting the enduring spirit of the Arrernte and other Central Australian cultures. The festival also features bush food workshops, markets, and talks that provide deeper insight into the region’s rich heritage.

A Musical Highlight: The Darwin Symphony Orchestra

Parrtjima

One of the festival’s standout moments will be the Darwin Symphony Orchestra’s special open-air performance. Over 50 musicians will take to the stage, creating a powerful sonic experience that complements the visual splendor of the light installations. The concert promises to be an unforgettable occasion, as Kate Stephens, General Manager of the Darwin Symphony Orchestra, explains: “We are thrilled to perform as part of our Territory Tour. It’s a performance you won’t want to miss.”

For festival-goers, the final Saturday night will bring a spectacular closing performance with Desert Divas Catherine Satour, Carii Williams, and Bronwyn Stuart, promising a memorable evening of music and celebration.

A Festival with Heart and Soul

Since its inception, Parrtjima has been a celebration of both Aboriginal culture and the broader Northern Territory. As Trevor Cox, acting CEO of Northern Territory Major Events Company (NTMEC), notes, “Parrtjima continues to grow in both scale and significance, and we want more visitors from across Australia and beyond to visit Central Australia to experience the magic of this award-winning festival.”

In 2024, Parrtjima received two Australian Event Awards and four Global Eventex Awards, cementing its place as a world-leading event in tourism and cultural engagement.

Join the Celebration

With free visitor registrations now open, it’s the perfect time to plan your trip to Alice Springs for this extraordinary event. Don’t miss the chance to experience the timeless beauty of Central Australia, where culture and technology come together in a spectacular celebration of light and heritage. Whether you're drawn by the innovative instal

lations, the Darwin Symphony Orchestra, or the bush food workshops, Parrtjima – A Festival in Light is an event that promises to leave a lasting impression.

Be part of this unforgettable celebration from 4 to 13 April 2025 and experience why Parrtjima continues to shine as a beacon of Australia’s rich cultural tapestry.

Visitor registrations are free and now open.