Territory's events sector is going from strength to strength, with 26 events receiving support through Round 2 of the 2025-26 Event Funding Program (EFP). From major sporting competitions to community‑driven festivals, the latest round highlights the strength, diversity and growth of the Northern Territory's year‑round events calendar.
Administered by Tourism and Events NT, the EFP supports events of all sizes across the Territory, delivering national exposure, boosting visitation, supporting local jobs and ensuring Territorians continue to enjoy a vibrant program of music, arts, culture, food and sport.
Round 2 funding supports a diverse range of Territory events, including a thriving music, arts and cultural calendar across the NT, with festivals such as Blacken Open Air, Desert Fringe Festival, Desert Harmony, Darwin International Film Festival and Darwin Comedy Festival showcasing local and national talent. The iconic Bush Bands Bash, continuing to celebrate Aboriginal music and culture in Alice Springs and providing a powerful platform for emerging and established Indigenous artists.
Major multicultural and community‑led events that shape the Territory's identity, including Greek GleNTi, the Indian Film Festival and the NT Irish Festival, bringing people together through food, music and shared traditions. The return of the Mahbili Festival in Jabiru for the first time since COVID‑19, a celebration of Aboriginal food, culture and history made possible through EFP support.
A strong line‑up of culinary events that highlight Territorians' love of food, including the Alice Springs Beef & BBQ Festival, Live Fire BBQ Festival and the inaugural NT Caught Seafood Event. Sporting events that attract competitors and spectators from across Australia, with new and returning events such as the Australian Tennis Teams Championships, Go Kart NT Titles, Top End Grand Fondo and Gazzanats.
The internationally recognised Bridgestone World Solar Challenge, which will once again see teams from around the globe travel through the Territory in a showcase of innovation and endurance. Endurance and adventure events such as Run Larapinta and Gravel Muster, highlighting the Territory's unique landscapes and offering world‑class experiences for participants.
Several new events joining the calendar, including the Darwin Mindil Beach Go Slow Picnic Race, NT Games Showcase and the Sister Cities Cup, adding fresh experiences for locals and visitors.
