Darwin Events Listings

'Are We There Yet'

To begin the National Year of Reading 2012 celebrations, an exhibition of original artwork from Alison Lester's award winning picture book 'Are we there yet' will travel to every State and Territory during 2012. 'Are we there yet' is a warm, heartfelt story based on an actual journey undertaken by author and illustrator, Alison Lester. The story is based on the reflections of her children on their adventurous and sometimes funny expedition around Australia.

29th Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Award

View the cultural art work and crafts of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. The Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Award is the premier national indigenous event on the arts calendar. Initiated by the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory in 1984, today the Award offers AUD59,000.00 worth of prize money, one of the highest for any art award in Australia. The Award attracts a broad range of artistic talent with upwards of 150 works selected for the exhibition from approximately 500 entries. This exhibition presents up-to-date developments in contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art and attracts a range of indigenous artists from all parts of the country. The diversity and style of work submitted each year reflects the changing face of contemporary Aboriginal art practice.

Anniversary of the Bombing of Darwin

2012 is the 70th Anniversary to tribute, honour and remember those who defend Darwin. The Anniversary of the Bombing of Darwin is commemorated each year on 19 February at the Cenotaph, Bicentennial Park, Darwin and attracts many veterans' who served in Darwin around that time. On 19 February 1942, World War II was brought to the shores of Australia when the Japanese dropped bombs over Darwin. On this day over 243 people, both armed forces personnel and civilians, lost their lives. Eight ships were sunk and 11 damaged. A section of the wharf was destroyed, killing 22 waterside workers. Over the next 21 months, Darwin, Adelaide River, Katherine and Milingimbi in Arnhem Land were bombed 64 times. The service begins at 9.30am with the sounding of the WWII air raid siren at 9.58am - the same time it sounded years ago as waves of Japanese bombers flew over the city.

Arafura Games

The Arafura Games, held biennially in Darwin, is a sporting event for developing athletes across the Asia Pacific region and beyond. It provides the experience necessary to succeed in competition of the highest level. This biennial event is a major highlight on the sporting calendar and is recognised throughout the Asia Pacific region as a week-long celebration of sporting competition, cultural diversity and friendship. TIO Stadium, located at the Marrara Sporting Precinct, is the venue for the opening ceremony, including the lighting of the cauldron. There is spectacular entertainment and warming displays of friendship and festivities during the ceremonies. Please check the Arafura Games website for further information including a list of sports available.

Australian Superbike Championship

The Australian Superbike Championship is Australia’s premier motorcycling competition. It brings together leading world class motorcycle manufacturers, production based motorcycles purpose-built for racing and Australia’s best riders.This year’s Championship event is expected to bring more than 80 factory and private teams and manufacturers such as Ducati, Suzuki, Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, KTM and Aprilia. The program is expected to include Superbike, Superstock, Supersport and 125/250 gp races, stunt riders and workshops. Plus, there’ll be a range of on-track entertainment for fans to enjoy. A free bus service will operate from selected interchanges to and from the venue.

Autism NT Annual Ball and Auction

Dance the evening away at the Autism NT’s Ball and Auction night. Get ready to out-bid the other diners and your friends during the auction, and don’t forget to buy your raffle tickets as well. Help support Autism NT by grabbing your friend and coming along and supporting this worth cause. More details will be available at a later date.

BASSINTHEGRASS 2012

The Territory's biggest music extravaganza attracts some of Australia's biggest bands. BASSINTHEGRASS has grown into one of the biggest events in Darwin, providing entertainment to all age groups with the best of home-grown and interstate bands. Details of the 2012 concert will be release towards the end of 2011 and into early 2012, keep checking their websites for updates. BASSINTHEGRASS is conducted in a safe and friendly environment and a 37-square metre giant screen makes the day and the entertainment event 'bigger'. There are shade structures, food and confectionery stalls. Since the first concert back in 2003, BASSINTHEGRASS has become a 'must see' event on the calendar.

Carols By Candlelight

Join in and celebrate the start of the festive season. Carols by Candlelight is the pinnacle of the festive season in Darwin and is held in the Amphitheatre at the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens. Performing on the night will be the Darwin City Brass Band and many well-known carol celebrities including the Darwin Youth Choir, the Kormilda College Choir and many more. The carols start at 6.30pm (gates open from 5.30pm) and conclude at 8.30pm with a spectacular firework finale. The venue is non-smoking and parking is available at Mindil Beach. Carol books, candles, candle cups and matches on sale at the gate entrance, and refreshments will also be on sale. The Carols by Candlelight is a charity fundraiser event and entry is by gold coin donation. Come along for a night of community song and festivities.

Darwin Blues Festival

The Darwin Blues Festival is one of the biggest international music festivals in the Northern Territory. The organisers are proud to announce that not one, but two international headlining blues artists from the USA, Ash Grunwald and Big Bill Morganfield will be performing at the 3rd Annual Darwin Blues Festival. Don't miss a magical day of blues and roots in the city of Darwin, one of the world's top ten cities to visit in 2012 as voted by the Lonely Planet. Yes, Muddy Waters ‘rising son’ Big Bill Morganfield is on his way to the Darwin Amphitheatre to perform exclusively and once only at the 3rd Annual Darwin Blues Festival. Ash Grunwald’s dancey, rootsy, bluesy rock will keep you dancing the entire day. Other superb artists include Mason Rack Band, Ray Beadle, Shaun Kirk and many more

Darwin Boat and Leisure Show

A host of exciting new releases, many of which have not yet been seen at other boat shows, awaits you at the Darwin Boat and Leisure Show. With a big variety of the latest boats, motors, accessories, water-sports, fishing gear, racy jet skis, three to eight wheeler ATV’s and camper-trailers on display, there’s something for everyone. There are even spas on display, a perfect place to relax after a big day out fishing. Local clubs and associations, together with local charter operators and guest celebrities, will assist with clinics and competitions and will be on hand to offer advice on boating and fishing in the Top End, how to best enjoy river, inshore or offshore fishing and camping adventures. There’s plenty of opportunity to win prizes for those who participate in various activities. Food and drinks will be on sale, with something for all family members.

Darwin Cup Carnival

Share in the excitement of Darwin’s premier horse racing calendar. The Darwin Cup Carnival officially kicks off on Saturday 2 July 2011 and culminates in the running of the Darwin Cup on Monday 6 August 2012. The program also features Ladies Day, where the ladies can show off their finery and enjoy a sumptuous luncheon and a glass of bubbly. The picturesque Fannie Bay Racecourse track is one of only a few dirt tracks in operation on the circuit, and the Darwin Cup Day witnesses 20,000 people bursting the rails. Dress up, dress casual or come in fancy dress, this is a racing carnival not to be missed.

Darwin Festival

The Darwin Festival program provides a feast of local, national and international performances to excite, inspire and entertain. There are few festivals around the world that can boast the weather that Darwin has and this is what makes it a perfect festival town. Held in August, the festival includes everything from free outdoor events to theatre, dance, music, cabaret, films, workshops and comedy, not to mention the sensational cuisine. Running for 18 nights, with over 70 productions, 112 events and performances and over 1,000 international, national and Territory artists and cultural groups, the Darwin Festival reflects the indigenous, Asian and Pacific cultures of the region.

Darwin Lions Beer Can Regatta

A regatta like no other, with boats primarily built entirely from aluminium beer cans. This annual Dawin family event is a spectacle for all who line Mindil Beach and cheer on the home-made boats of cans, plastic soft drink bottles and cartons, as they flounder and sink in the shallows. There are loads of activities and competitions for everyone to do which are held throughout the day. The Mindil Beach Markets will be trading all day as well. The first Beer Can Regatta was an attempt to clean up the litter (mainly beer cans) in and around Darwin. Paul Rice-Chapman and Lutz Frankenfeld jointly developed the idea of a Beer Can Regatta, and things have gone on annually from there. The inaugural Darwin beer can race in 1974 was an instant success, and has developed into a major event with boat entries ranging from 1 to 12 metres and some even with secret weaponry. Entry is by donation, with proceeds going to projects of the combined Lions Clubs of Darwin. Over AUD150,000.00 has been raised over the last 6 years.

Darwin to Ambon Yacht Race

Watch a colourful fleet of yachts start their sailing adventure to Ambon, from Darwin’s foreshore. The tension builds during the months leading up to this anticipated event on Darwin’s sailing calendar, with an almost festival atmosphere. When the day finally arrives, large crowds gather on Darwin’s foreshore in the brilliant dry season sunshine, and jostle for vantage points to see a colourful array of sailing vessels start their adventure to Ambon in Indonesia. With cool dry season breezes filling the spinnakers, the yachts poised on the turquoise sea starting line, the signal to race is anxiously awaited. Then with a loud crack, the race is on. The Darwin Ambon yacht Race and Rally starts at 11am. This 600 nautical mile race to the capital of the Spice Islands attracts entries from blue water sailors from Australia and the world. Skippers who wish to partake in this race, please contact the Darwin to Ambon Yacht Race Committee or refer to their website. Race entry fees apply.

Darwin Turf Club Gala Ball

Darwin's social event of the dry - entertainment, fabulous food and atmosphere. If you are yet to attend the Darwin Turf Club Gala Ball don’t hesitate any longer. Words, friends or photographs can not describe the experience of attending one of Australia's largest outdoor seated dinner events, beside the ocean, amidst tropical gardens and under the stars. The celebration is the perfect tribute to the cup carnival and typifies the 'dry' with a clear starry sky, flowing sparkling wine and a social season at fever pitch.

Darwin Waterfront Harmony Day Soiree

Celebrate Darwin's thriving and successful multicultural community by joining the picnic atmosphere at the Darwin Waterfront. There will be food and entertainment plus you can even make a floating lantern and be a part of the flotilla. Harmony Day is a chance for everyone to celebrate the cultural diversity , and our great Territory lifestyle. The Territory is fortunate to be a unique blend of the oldest living culture on earth and migrants from all over the world. Our diversity makes the Territory an interesting and vibrant place to live and our acceptance of people regardless of their background is something we can all be very proud of. The Territory is truly a place where everybody belongs. The list of performances and activities on the day is huge - however, this event is not about entertainment alone. It is really about communities coming together to celebrate harmony.

Goyder's Day

Goyder’s Day is a commemoration of the arrival of the Surveyor-General George Woodroffe Goyder, who arrived in Port Darwin on the 5 February 1869. Join the National Trust and witness the physical re-enactment of an event that brought about the new beginnings for the city now know as Darwin. There will be displays, hands-on activities, handouts and light refreshments available. The re-enactment will take place at approximately 5.30pm.

Greek Glenti

Experience the largest show of ethnic celebration in the Northern Territory calendar. The Greek Glenti, held at historic Bicentennial Park in Darwin, is a fun and vibrant festival where the Greek community shares their culture, food, wine, dance and music with locals and visitors. The Glenti consists of local and interstate entertainment and acts and besides being able to eat Greek food, you can see people wearing traditional Greek clothing, be enlightened by the Greek culture, listen to Greek music, and see traditional dancing and much more.

Happy Yess Markets

Darwin Visual Arts Association (DVAA) has joined forces with the Happy Yess Market to support local and emerging Darwin artists and talented folk. All types of stalls are on offer and changing each month, anything goes at the Happy Yess Market - as long as it's homemade or second hand treasure. There are tasty treats, local arts and crafts, and people sharing their talents, live music and lots of lazy lounging on the grass. The afternoon is family friendly, relaxed and delicious. The market is also a great opportunity to explore the galleries of DVAA and see what the artists are up to in their studios. The Happy Yess Markets are held on the first Sunday on every month from 2pm to 6pm.

Heineken Hottest 7's in the World

A fantastic opportunity to watch seven-a-side international rugby union played. The Heineken Hottest 7’s in the World is a Rugby 7's competition conducted in Darwin over two days with participation of teams from overseas, interstate, intrastate and from Darwin. With prize money of AUD67,500.00, it ranks as the leading prize money 7's event in Australia. Teams that have participated in the past have been the SRC Borneo Eagles (2011 winners), Dayetalevu, PNG Barbarians, CA Brumbies, South Sea Drifters, Randwick and the Country King Browns. A women's competition will also be conducted. There will be food, drink and bar outlets.

Mindil Beach Sunset Markets

Experience the atmosphere and flavours of the famous sunset markets. Enjoy the tropical night air at Darwin’s Mindil Beach Sunset Markets every Thursday and Sunday evening between May and October. The markets have a multitude of stalls offering international cuisine, arts, crafts and entertainment. Their unique combination of great food and an electric atmosphere make a visit a must do. The market boasts up to 60 food stalls featuring cuisine from Turkey, Greece, Sri Lanka, South America, North Africa, India and all over South East Asia. Enjoy a picnic dinner on the beach whilst experiencing a spectacular tropical sunset. Afterwards, take time to look around the stalls which include masseurs, tarot readers, leatherworkers, artists, tailors and jewellers. While browsing, listen to the free live street theatre, magicians and an array of local and international buskers.

Nightcliff Markets

Unwind and feel the ambience of the Nightcliff Markets. Set in the attractive Nightcliff Shopping Centre the markets are an ideal place for a lazy Sunday coffee or a cool and refreshing tropical fruit salad. A casual wander around Nightcliff Markets will likely unearth an unusual bargain or a unique gift for a friend. Stalls display a wide variety of original crafts such as copper sculptures, fairy dresses, hemp designer clothing and traditional Asian crafts. Browse through the many stalls specialising in recycled products like hardware, furniture, clothing, gardening, compact discs, books and collectables. There is also massage, reflexology, card reading and many more attractions. For the less energetic there is plenty of shade and space to sit and enjoy the entertainment from local artists performing on the central stage. The markets are open from 8am to 2pm every Sunday.

Nightcliff Seabreeze Festival

A big day of entertainment (first Saturday of May) followed by a week of performances, events and activities for all ages. The family-friendly activities, events and performances around the Nightcliff foreshore welcomes the commencement of the Dry Season. All events are free on the 'Big' day and there are opportunities for the whole family to participate. The festival kicks off on Saturday with six music stages, art and dance, a free family festival of music and culture including the Seabreeze Artspace Awards, the Seabreeze Sand Sculpture Award and featuring music and dance from Indigenous Australian, to many styles from the Pacific, Africa, Middle East, Europe, Asia and India. There will be food stalls, community stalls, indigenous stories and craft workshops and fun for all the family. Some workshops during the week following have an entry cost.

NRL Telstra Premiership Round 7 Sydney Roosters vs North Queensland Cowboys

This is your chance to see an official game of the National Rugby League (NLR). Round 7 of the NRL Telstra Premiership 2012 season sees two teams, the Sydney Roosters and the North Queensland Cowboys, treat Darwin rugby league fans to a high energy, action packed game. The North Queensland Cowboys, home to Johnathan Thurston, Matthew Bowen and Tariq Sims, clash with the likes of Brad Takairangi, Tom Symonds and Braith Anasta of the Sydney Roosters. Grab the family and come along and support these two great teams as they put their bodies and hearts on the line, until that final siren sounds. A curtain raiser between City and Courty will commence at 4pm with the main game starting at 7pm.

Parap Markets

Tantalise your senses with a mixture of Asian cuisine and the aroma of fresh coffee. The Parap Village Market is a great place to shop and a favourite among locals and visitors alike. Browse the markets, winding through stalls of local produce, local arts and crafts, entertainment and delicious cuisine from around the world. This Saturday morning market has become an institution and ritual among locals who just couldn’t survive a weekend without their Saturday morning laksa, satay prawns or fresh tropical smoothie. The markets are open from 8am to 2pm evey Saturday.

Paspaley Darwin Star Ball

The Paspaley Darwin - Star Ball, is a fundraiser for the Starlight Children's Foundation, and is in its fifth year with a bigger and better evening planned this year. There will be live entertainment, so don't forget to wear your dancing shoes, and a dinner of great food and wine. Take part in the silent and live auctions, and don't forget to buy tickets in the raffles. Grab your partner and friends for an evening that is certain to be a sparkling night filled with fun.

Pre-Season Super Rugby Union Trial Game - CA Technologies Brumbies v Western Force

The CA Technologies Brumbies and the Western Force are set to play a pre-season Super Rugby game in Darwin. Super Rugby has undergone a makeover and the 2012 season is sure to be the biggest and best yet. The last time they met, the CA Technologies Brumbies and the Western Force finished a hard fought game at 13-13 all. The Brumbies will be looking to start the year with a win, with both teams showcasing their fit and ready to fight side at Rugby Union Park in Marrara. The game is sure to be a highlight of the sporting season in Darwin as the two sides show their skills and try to stamp their mark of dominance on the impending season. The main game commences at 7.30pm.

Rapid Creek Markets

Relax and enjoy a stress-relieving massage or cool tropical juice. Darwin's oldest market is situated only 20 minutes from Darwin city, in the Rapid Creek Business Village. Come on down for a massage, followed with a relaxing Sunday brunch, before browsing the stalls for fresh organic produce, Asian fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices, exotic plants, flowers and seafood. You’ll also find a range of local handmade crafts for that special gift. The markets are open from 6.30am to 1.30pm every Sunday. Buses from Darwin city and Casuarina stop by the market on a regular basis.

Rapid Creek Monsoon Markets

The Monsoon Markets operate every Thursday night during Darwin's tropical season. There is a variety of hot food on offer, as well as arts and craft stalls, where you may find the special local handmade craft gift. There's plenty of entertainment through out the evening, so be sure to bring the children along. The Monsoon Markets are open from 5pm to 10pm during November through to April.

Reel Women Barra Classic 2012

Join in the thrill of a women's-only, fishing competition. The Reel Women Barra Classic is one of two Northern Territory ladies-only fishing tournaments, with the main focus on encouraging women to participate in recreational fishing. From novices to experienced anglers, this event is fun for ladies of all ages. The official base will Sand Palms Motel, 145 kilometres south west of Darwin and just over an hour's drive. The fishing area is the waters accessible from Dundee Beach boat ramp. This catch and release competition, utilising rod and reel combinations only, is held over two days. Ladies are encouraged to skipper their own boats, although one male skipper is allowed per boat if required. Species that can be caught are barramundi, threadfin salmon, tarpon and catfish.

Roll Of Honour - Casualties of the Bombing of Darwin, February 1942

The Northern Territory Library is marking the 70th anniversary of the Bombing of Darwin with a 'Roll of Honour' that records and remembers the names of those killed on 19 February 1942. Based on information currently available, this 'Roll of Honour' provides biographical details, photographs and personal stories for each casualty remembering them as unique individuals who sacrificed their lives in defending Darwin and Australia. Contact has been made with relatives of some of the casualties, who have also contributed to the project. The display in the Northern Territory Library at Parliament House will also include two large aerial mosaics of Darwin in 1941 and 1945, produced by the Department of Lands and Planning.

Rotary Club of Darwin North Championship Rodeo

Dust, daring deeds and determination will once again herald the 2012 Darwin Championship Rodeo presented by the Rotary Club of Darwin North. The rodeo is staged at Robbie Robbins Reserve at Berrimah over two exciting nights of skills, thrills and spills on Friday 17 and Saturday 18 August 2012 commencing at 6pm sharp. Some of Australia’s leading riders are drawn to Darwin to match their skills against these beasts. Eight seconds of raw courage is the required time needed for these bareback bull riders to ‘master’ the bull in the open bull ride section. There’ll be food and drink stalls available on both nights as well as plenty of entertainment for the kids. And of course, the ever-reliable and brave rodeo clown(s) will be there. The Darwin Championship Rodeo is presented by the Rotary Club of Darwin North in conjunction with the Australian Professional Rodeo Association.

Royal Darwin Show

Share in the delights of one of Darwin’s premier events celebrates 61 years. The Royal Darwin Show is the premier event on the Top End community calendar, where city and country come together for three days of competition, entertainment and displays of primary industry, horticulture, art, craft, cooking and photography. The official opening is on the Friday, followed by a grand parade of livestock and machinery. Visitors can enjoy equestrian events, sideshow rides, varied live entertainment and a wide assortment of food and drink stalls that reflect the multicultural nature of Darwin. Over 240 stalls display a wide variety of products and information and the animal nursery is extremely popular. Horses feature throughout from dressage and show jumping to working stock horses and polocrosse matches. The show closes with a spectacular fireworks finale.

RSPCA Million Paws Walk

This walk is Darwin's biggest day out for animal lovers and everyone is welcome to participate, whether you have a dog or not. It's a family fun day, where you and your pet can mingle, chat and celebrate your love of animals. There will be activities, live entertainment, food and drink stalls and fun competitions all day long. Funds raised are for the Darwin RSPCA to help care for the animals they receive throughout the year. It's easy just register your team online, ask friends, co workers and family for support to raise funds, put your walking shoes on and grab your four legged friend for a fun day out. Registrations will be from 8am with the walk commencing at 9am. There is a one or three kilometre walk with the event finishing up at 1pm.

RSPCA Quiz Night

Wanted fun people with a great sense of humour. So grab your family and friends and help raise much needed funds for the Darwin regional branch of the RSPCA. With only six people per table and limited seats, it's your turn to shine at this quiz night. On the night there will be nibble platters, heaps of prizes, cash bar and other food will be available to purchase. Doors open at 6.30pm with the first question starting at 7pm. Bookings are essential and tickets are available from the RSPCA or you can book online through the RSPCA's website.

Saltwater Fly Fishing Challenge

Your challenge - catch seven species of fish in three days. Bynoe Harbour, near Darwin, is the action spot for the Saltwater Fly Fishing Challenge held annually by the Darwin Flyrodders Club. This is a measure-and-release competition where the angler's aim is to catch each of the seven target species of fish - the queen fish, trevally, mackerel, barramundi, tarpon, snapper and salmon, all of which require the anglers to move and seek out the species on different stages of the tide. Anglers have three days to fly fish, with only two people per boat (both must be competitors). Bonus points accumulate for the capture of each species and the fish caught are scored on a centimetre-per-point basis. The challenge attracts anglers from all over Australia, as well as international competitors.

Simply the Breast Yacht Race

Simply the Breast, presented by Medibank Private with Darwin Waterfront as a supporting sponsor, is now in its seventh year. This event is a fun way of raising breast cancer awareness as well as fundraising for Dragons Abreast which reaches out to those travelling the journey with breast cancer. Yachts and their crew get dressed up in their pinkest finery and Stokes Hill Wharf is a great vantage point for spectators to watch the colourful fleet of yachts, as they sail past from 10am with the race starting at 11am. This is a great event not only for experienced yachties but for social sailors as well, with separate handicap and non-handicap divisions. A photographic competition is being run in conjunction with the race. For those who are without a yacht, you can still participate by joining one of the cruise boats that will be taking passengers out on the day.

SKYCITY Triple Crown, V8 Supercars Championship Series

Come along and witness the battle of the V8 Supercars when they roar back to Darwin. The Hidden Valley round of the Skycity Triple Crown, V8 Supercar Championship Series is one of the largest sporting events of the year in Darwin. Families flock to Hidden Valley to watch their heroes, Lowndes, Whincup, Tander, Winterbottom, Davison and Kelly race against one another on a fast, but picturesque course less than 10 kilometres from the city centre. Mums, dads and children urge on these modern juggernauts as they charge bumper to bumper around the tight 2.9 kilometre track that winds between corporate boxes perched on hairpin bends and grassed public viewing areas on straights and corners. Screams and cheers mingle with the throaty high-powered roar that only V8 Supercars can deliver. It sounds like the whole world is here.

Supercheap Auto Powercruise

A weekend of fast cars and smoking tyres. The Supercheap Auto Powercruise is an action packed weekend of competition. There is the Powerskid - a combination of horsepower and the use of a brake pedal only. The Burnout - a big favourite with Territorians and the most heavily fought competition, with plenty of smoke and noise. Hour of Power - 20 of the toughest hand picked big hitters cruise for a solid half hour. The Off Street Racing Competition gives the locals a chance to take on some of the higher horsepower cars or settle a score with a mate. There's the Show and Shine for those who simply wish to display their pride and joy. Overnight camping, with hot showers, are available (charges apply). There will be a number of food and drink stalls including bar facilities available all weekend. No alcohol can be brought into Hidden Valley Raceway.

Territory Day

Territory Day is one of the most spectacular events on the festival calendar. For one day only the Territory lights up in a rainbow of rockets, bangers and Roman candles. Celebrating the anniversary that self governance was handed down to the Territory by the Commonwealth Government, Territorians and visitors alike gather for public fireworks shows. They also compete with one another to produce the most brilliant pyrotechnics display on the only day of the year where people are allowed to light fireworks. Mindil Beach in Darwin is a popular vantage point to watch the spectacular. With delicious food from the markets, people can picnic on the sand as they watch the fireworks burst and sparkle over the Timor Sea.

Top End Mud Racing

Grab the family for an action packed night of mud racing. Held in the tropical season, this loud, fast pace, exciting and very very dirty sport (for the competitors) is great viewing for all the family. Watch as VW Beetles to purpose built high powered Top Gun vehicles complete against each other, and the clock, through a 700 metre course. There's plenty of room to spread out and watch as the drivers and their cars fight their way through deep mud and water. Food and beverages (including a bar) are available on the night and don't forget to bring something to sit on. Held once a month on Saturday night during the tropical season, dates are as follows - 22 October 2011, 19 November 2011, 10 December 2011, 21 January 2012 (an Australia Day extravaganza), 18 February 2012 and 17 March 2012 (the Northern Territory Titles night).

Top End Pet Expo

The Top End Pet Expo is a family friendly event and is held every year to help educate and assist people with responsible pet ownership. Come along to the Marrara Indoor Stadium and talk to the breeders, chat with veterinarians and other businesses that are involved in the pet industry, whether it be for birds, cats, dogs, fish or reptiles. There will be talks, walks, dog obedience and training displays held throughout the day. Food and drinks stalls available. The pet expo opens at 10am and concludes at 3pm.

Toyota AFL Round 17 Melbourne vs Port Adelaide

Catch an Australian Football League (AFL) match in Darwin. AFL Toyota Premiership 2012, Round 17 is the Melbourne Demons v Port Adelaide at TIO Stadium, Marrara, Darwin. Come along and support your team at the second official game of AFL game held in Darwin this year. The match is one of the flagships of the AFL's effort to further develop the game in the Northern Territory with indigenous participation a key part of that drive. Experience a Territory game by arriving early and watching two local teams compete. Melbourne Demons is home to players Jared Rivers, Brent Moloney, Nathan Jones and Aaron Davey . With Danyle Pearce, David Rodan, Brett Ebert and Kane Cornes playing for Port Adelaide.

Toyota AFL Round 8 Western Bulldogs vs Gold Coast Suns

Catch an Australian Football League (AFL) match in Darwin. AFL Toyota Premiership 2012, Round 8 is the Western Bulldogs v Gold Coast Suns at TIO Stadium, Marrara, Darwin. Come along and support your team at the first official game of AFL game held in Darwin this year. The match is one of the flagships of the AFL's effort to further develop the game in the Northern Territory with indigenous participation a key part of that drive. Experience a Territory game by arriving early and watching two local teams compete. Western Bulldogs is home to players Justin Sherman, Robert Murphy, William Minson and Daniel Giansiracusa. With David Swallow, Trent McKenzie, Luke Russell and Gary Ablet playing forthe Gold Coast Suns.

Variety at the Races

Come and join Variety - the children's charity at the Darwin Turf Club. What a great way to spend a Saturday afternoon - have fun at the races, enjoy the party atmosphere and support a worthy cause, the children's charity, Variety. The 'Bash Cars', which took part in this year's 'Variety's Bash' will be on display. Tickets are AUD50.00 per adults and includes finger food and a cash bar.

WordStorm 2012

Get swept away with the power of words. WordStorm is an established and much-anticipated Northern Territory literary event and is unique in Australia for its profiling of Indigenous Australian and South East Asian voices. Participate in writing workshops, listen to great musicians and poets perform, dine at literary breakfasts and lunches, be entertained by their annual comedy debate or, for the brave, enter a poetry slam or hip hop workshop.