Experience the world’s oldest living culture at Parrtjima - A Festival in Light 2021

You are here

Home Offers Experience the world’s oldest living culture at Parrtjima - A Festival in Light 2021

Parrtjima is the meeting place where old meets new. It is the only authentic Aboriginal festival of its kind, showcasing the oldest continuous culture on earth through the newest technology – all on the 300-million-year-old natural canvas of the MacDonnell Ranges in Central Australia.

Held on Mparntwe (Alice Springs), Parrtjima’s diverse program includes the lighting of the majestic MacDonnell Ranges, unique, large-scale illuminated sculptural installations in the desert, animated artworks and a national line-up of artists, musicians, performers and storytellers. This year also includes a Preview Night and add on workshops, as well as Merne, an exclusive dining-under-the-stars experience.

As a Travel Associates client, you'll have access to exclusive experiences beyond the festival

Exclusive Parrtjima - A Festival in Light Preview Night
Thursday 8 April 2021 | 5:45pm - 9pm

Be one of the first to see the spectacular MacDonnell Ranges light show at Parrtjima - A Festival in Light at an exclusive preview night on Thursday, 8 April. A moment worthy of goose-bumps, you will enter Desert Park in Alice Springs as guests of Traditional Elders and the Aboriginal artists whose work will feature in the festival. Take in your personal Welcome to Country, enlightening talks and a complimentary glass of sparkling wine or beer with bush tucker canapés as the sun sets in spectacular style.

Your exclusive ticket includes:

  • Return hotel transfers to Desert Park

  • Introduction by a host (Traditional Owner)

  • Bush Tucker Canapes

  • Australian sparkling wine, beers and non-alcoholic beverages

  • Preview the exhibition and see the MacDonnell light show before it opens to the public

  • Meet the artists and curator and learn about the inspiration behind their work

Merne Desert Dinner - SOLD OUT
Saturday 10 April 2021 | 7pm – 10:30pm

With the majestic MacDonnell Ranges as your backdrop, renowned Chef Mark Olive, together with Rayleen Brown from Kungkas can Cook will curate and present a contemporary take on traditional bush-tucker paired with premium Australian beer and wine. As the sun goes down, the desert will come alive and guests will be treated to a spectacular light show spanning the majestic ranges, plus special performances and entertainment to connect them to traditional Aboriginal culture, stories and art.

Between courses, look up and enjoy some of the world’s best stargazing. Be enchanted by a vivid view of the Milky Way, and find planets and constellations such as the Southern Cross and Seven Sisters in the ever-moving southern night sky.

Your ticket includes:

  • 3-course menu featuring exquisite native ingredients

  • Premium Australian wine and beer package

  • A presentation by local Arrernte women Rayleen Brown from Kungkas can Cook and Celebrity Chef Mark Olive

  • Traditional and contemporary performances

  • Parrtjima Projection Show on the MacDonnell Ranges

  • Coach transfers

Unfortunately, this experience is now sold out.

Parrtjima - A Festival in Light 2021

Parrtjima - A Festival in Light 2021