Darwin Festival 2025 has officially launched, marking its largest ever presence across the city, showcasing 402 shows this year, featuring 734 artists, across a record 50 venues from August 7 to 24.

This year’s event boasts a thrilling first week filled with seven world premieres, captivating performances, and the national Indigenous art and music awards.

Kicking off the festivities at the new venue Fort Hill Parklands, the inaugural weekend features performances by Guy Sebastian, Gabriella Cilmi, and The Wanted Gems on Friday night. New Zealand’s eclectic musicians L.A.B will take the stage the following evening, joined by the Andrew Gurruwiwi Band and Juran.

Darwin Festival Artistic Director Kate Fell remarked that this year’s event truly reflects the essence of Darwin, featuring beautiful locations by the waterfront and under the night sky, along with trendy bars, beloved theatres, galleries, and experiences aboard boats and buses.

“Equally diverse is the program and performances that will appeal to everyone, whether they love to laugh, eat, dance, be inspired or feel moved,” Ms Fell said.

Premier events include Emma Donovan showcasing gospel and blues with a world-class band, while filmmaker Naina Sen presents a multi-channel video piece exploring Indian femininity. The collaboration of Warlpiri philosopher Wanta Jampijinpa Pawu-Kurlpurlurnu with composer Marc Peckham and Elder Jerry Jangala Patrick highlights cultural connections to Country. The Warumungu Elders launch their children’s album, promoting language and culture preservation.

Bogan Villea leads a high-energy rock cabaret, and comedian Merrick Watts returns with his entertaining wine tasting show, promising fresh varietals and humour.

In addition to exciting premier shows, beloved festival favourites are back this year. Enjoy food, drinks, and live music at Festival Park, explore the Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards, join Club Awi, and don’t miss the Palmerston Family Fiesta night.

“Darwin Festival is great example of how a festival can champion artists and creative communities as well as support local businesses across the city – all while attracting visitors from around Australia and the world,” Darwin Festival CEO James Gough said.

Families with children can also enjoy the return of the Teddy Bears Picnic and the Nylon Zoo, where kids can dress up, participate in a parade, and jump into fun with giant inflatables.

The festivities continue at the Little Ravers Disco, featuring a silent disco with DJ Guru Dudu tunes, exciting face-painting, arts and crafts, and a wide array of kid-friendly activities.

For adults, the Waterfront Cocktail Trail is a must-visit, offering the chance to savour signature cocktails and delectable bites at popular spots such as Wharf One, Hot Tamale, and Oyster Bar. Enjoy beautifully scenic strolls along the Darwin Waterfront while uncovering behind-the-bar secrets at these top venues.

Last year’s Darwin Festival had a significant economic impact, contributing an estimated $33.1 million, and attracting over 17,800 visitors from interstate and worldwide, resulting in 177,136 attendances at various events.

The full program of this year’s events is available at the Darwin Festival website.