Parrtjima festival brings story and culture to the desert

Parrtjima returns to Mparntwe (Alice Springs) from 10–19 April 2026 for a free 10-night festival celebrating language, art and interactive workshops under the desert sky.

Parrtjima, a free 10-night festival, returns to Mparntwe (Alice Springs) from 10 to 19 April 2026. The event takes place outdoors at Alice Springs Desert Park. The program was developed in consultation with traditional owners and artists. This year’s guiding theme is language, explored through art, story and participation. Key details: - Dates and location: a free 10-night festival at Alice Springs Desert Park (Mparntwe), running 10–19 April 2026. - Theme and format: language is the guiding theme, expressed through light installations, storytelling and hands-on workshops. - Signature work: the Grounded installation will return, projecting illuminated artworks onto the red earth and inviting people to walk through the piece. - Activities: visitors can take part in sand painting, watercolour, weaving, soft-sculpture and screen-printing workshops, and attend bush food and medicine demonstrations. - Community role: the festival brings together artists, elders and visitors from Aboriginal communities and beyond, and serves as a cultural gathering point. - Performers: the program includes local and visiting musicians mentioned in the article, such as Paul Ah Chee (performing with his son Roland), Electric Fields, Emma Donovan and Drifting Clouds. Summary: Parrtjima aims to strengthen cultural connection and pass on stories through participatory art, music and conversation. The event foregrounds language in many forms and offers interactive experiences that invite shared understanding. The festival will run nightly from 10 to 19 April 2026.