NT events calendar gets another boost with 26 events secured
The Northern Territory’s (NT) events calendar has received a major boost, with 26 events secured through round 2 of the 2025–26 Event Funding Program (EFP).
The latest round highlights the NT growing year‑round program, spanning major sporting competitions, multicultural celebrations, food festivals and music and arts events.
Supported by Tourism and Events NT, the EFP helps deliver national exposure, attract visitors and strengthen local jobs. This round includes the following events.
Cultural and arts
- Blacken Open Air
- Desert Fringe Festival
- Desert Harmony
- Darwin International Film Festival
- Darwin Comedy Festival.
AANT Centre Acting CEO Roxanne Smith said the multi‑year support would allow the festival to grow with confidence, noting it will 'unlock Darwin Comedy Festival’s full potential as both a cultural and tourism asset' and help attract major artists to the Top End.
Community and multicultural
- Greek GleNTi
- Indian Film Festival
- NT Irish Festival
- Mahbili Festival (in Jabiru).
Food
Food lovers can look forward to the:
- Alice Springs Beef & BBQ Festival
- NT Caught Seafood Event (inaugural)
- Live Fire BBQ Festival – Pitmasters of the NT.
Live Fire organiser Pippa Ainsworth said the support helps bring 'the thrill of big‑city events and experiences' to Darwin, adding that it allows the team to create 'epic events, free for the community to enjoy.'
Sports
Sporting and endurance events remain a strong drawcard, with funding supporting:
- Australian Tennis Teams Championships
- Go Kart NT Titles
- Top End Gran Fondo
- Gazzanats
- Run Larapinta
- Gravel Muster
- Bridgestone World Solar Challenge (internationally recognised).
New additions
New additions that will further diversify the Territory’s offering include:
- Darwin Mindil Beach Go Slow Picnic Race
- NT Games Showcase
- Sister Cities Cup.
These events play a vital role in strengthening the NT’s visitor economy, supporting local businesses and showcasing it as a destination for world‑class experiences.
For more information about the EFP, go to the Tourism and Events NT website.
