The Finocchiaro CLP Government continues to deliver on its year of action, certainty and security for Territorians, with the return of one of the Northern Territory's largest Indigenous celebrations, the Barunga Festival.
Now in its 37th year, the festival kicks off this Saturday, 7 June and runs until 9 June, welcoming thousands of locals and visitors for four days of music, art, sport and ceremony in the Big Rivers region.
More than 500 First Nations artists and performers will feature across a diverse program, celebrating and sharing the Territory's rich culture and tradition.
Minister for Major Events and Tourism and Hospitality Marie-Clare Boothby said Barunga Festival was a major drawcard for the Big Rivers region, attracting nationwide participation.
"The Barunga Festival is one of the most authentic, longest-running Aboriginal cultural festivals in Australia, and it happens right here in the Northern Territory," said Ms Boothby.
"Its popularity has grown, with attendance climbing from around 2,500 in 2022 to 4,500 in 2024, with more than a quarter of last year's guests travelling from interstate and overseas, immersing in the culture."
"This major event drives visitation to the Big Rivers region, delivering real social and economic benefits to local businesses, tourism operators, and communities, while inspiring people to explore the broader region, including iconic destinations such as Mataranka and Nitmiluk National Park."
ARIA Award-winning Australian singer-songwriter Thelma Plum will headline the 2025 event, joined by Palmerston-based rappers J-Milla x Yung Milla, and a long-awaited reunion performance by Arnhem Land rock band East Journey.
Additional highlights include the iconic Barunga Sports Carnival, traditional dance performances, hands-on bush skills workshops, junior guide tours, an Indigenous art market, touring production Big Name, No Blankets, and the Barunga's Next Top Model: Unearthed debut.
"We are proud to reaffirm our ongoing support for Barunga Festival through the Northern Territory Major Events Company funding program, because we know these events help support our regional economies while celebrating our unique Territory lifestyle," said Ms Boothby.
Barunga Event Organiser Anya Lorimer said: "Hosting the Warumpi Band tribute, Big Name No Blankets, in community is a once in a lifetime inclusion to the 2025 program and Barunga is the only festival in the Top End that you will be able to experience it.
"This performance builds on the success of Barunga that is the longest running authentic Aboriginal cultural, sport, arts and music event on the NT Calendar and extends the event experience to a national level and exceptional value."
Three-day festival passes, including unpowered camping, are available from $58 for youths and $135 for adults.
For tickets and further information visit the Barunga Festival website. [http://www.barungafestival.com.au/]
