Barunga Festival
The Barunga Sports and Culture Festival is recognised as a premiere celebration of culture and sport in the Top End.
Held annually on the June long weekend, it is one of Australia's longest running cultural festivals.
Over the weekend, visitors are invited to camp in the community, be part of dancing ceremonies, share traditional bush tucker, make their own didgeridu or weaved basket to take home, listen to dreaming stories and enjoy the many cultural activities on offer.
More than 20 communities from across the Northern Territory descend on Barunga to show off their skills in contemporary and traditional sporting events such as Aussie rules, basketball, softball and athletics, spear throwing, fire lighting and didgeridoo competitions and demonstrations.
A four hour drive south of Darwin, the Barunga community is one of the most accessible Aboriginal communities in the Top End, with sealed roads and good infrastructure to support large crowds. Camping is allowed around the community for the duration of the festival at no charge. A diverse range of foods are available throughout the weekend.
The Barunga festival is a must on the touring calendar for visitors to the Top End. The festival is an alcohol and drug free event - no alcohol is allowed into the community and alcohol will not be available for sale during the weekend.
Barunga welcomes all visitors to the community - no permits required.
Further information
