The Red Centre is set to light up in April for this year’s Parrtjima – A Festival in Light, bringing thousands of visitors to town and providing a boost to the economy during a traditionally quieter period.

Running from Friday 5 April to Sunday 14 April this year, visitors and locals will have plenty to look forward to with a spectacular ten-night celebration of art and culture, based on the theme ‘Language Expressions’, recognising the UN Year of Indigenous Languages.

A completely free event, Parrtjima is the only authentic Aboriginal light festival of its kind, showcasing the oldest continuous culture on the planet through the latest technology.

As well as a number of spectacular new lighting installations and interactive artworks, the 2019 program boasts a mix of acclaimed musical acts including Aboriginal rapper Baker Boy who will take to the stage on the final night of the festival.

A total of seven unique lighting installations and effects will be on display across two precincts including Alice Springs Desert Park and Alice Springs Todd Mall.

The MacDonnell Ranges will be put in the spotlight, acting as a natural canvas for a series of stunning lighting effects across two kilometres that explore the language of the ranges; depicting the story of Country and stories of the desert songlines.

New installations reflecting this year’s festival theme include:

• an impressive illuminated tunnel – the language of Kin
• a series of over-sized sculptures – the language of the Stockman, and of Change
• an interactive, over-sized maze for children, which also explores the language of children…and much more.

For more information about this year’s event, visit www.parrtjimaaustralia.com.au. 

“Parrtjima – A Festival in Light is a unique Territory event that continues to grow and attract more visitors every year.

“The Government has injected additional funding into the event through our Turbocharging Tourism stimulus program, bringing the festival into the Todd Street Mall, activating the CBD and providing a welcome economic injection into local businesses.

“Parrtjima applies new technology to showcase and celebrate the rich, ancient culture of the Arrernte people – it’s a once in a lifetime experience and this year’s theme – Language Expressions – will offer up many stunning and thought-provoking installations and performances.

“Events and festivals play an important role in this Government’s strategy to attract more people to the Territory across our regions and throughout the whole year and Parrtjima is integral to that strategy.”

Quotes to be attribute to Member for Braitling, Dale Wakefield:

“It’s exciting that Parrtjima – A Festival in Light will be back in Alice Springs in just under two months, with the 2019 program set to be bigger and better than ever.

“We look forward to welcoming visitors from all over Australia and the world to the Red Centre for this unique festival, with plenty of exciting installations, performances and workshops all on offer for free.”

Quotes to be attributed to Parrtjima – A Festival in Light Curator, Rhoda Roberts AO:

“2019 is the UN year of Indigenous Languages.

“Traditional languages are vital to providing age old knowledge continuance of story, culture and connection to Country.

“Through our thematic of language expression, Parrtjima 2019 once again provides a unique platform and an exchange of new expressions and a dialogue that is relevant to the 21st century.

“The installations and light show capture the essence of diverse artistic practices. 

“Along with the knowledge public program that features music, film and talks enhancing the many ways in which First Nations artists, performers and custodians celebrate and evolve, while staying true to the ancient philosophy of connection and Country.

“Festival guests can expect to be spellbound and witness the unexpected. 

“I hope many can join us in the heart of the nation, as we explore the oldest living art practices through a new lens.”