Exclusive Experiences
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Parrtjima isn’t just something you see — it’s something you can experience.
This year, in addition to visiting Parrtjima Festival, you can book three unforgettable add-on exclusive experiences, which will be taking place outside the main festival site as part of the program.
From guided cultural moments to immersive desert encounters and special curated events, these ticketed experiences offer a deeper way to connect with Central Australia after dark. Places are limited, so secure your spot early and make your Parrtjima visit even more memorable.
Merne Mwerre Bushfood Experience
Unforgettable evening in the heart of the Red Centre
Arrive at Madigan’s at Desert Park at 5.30PM ready to experience the flavours of Central Australia.
Join Rayleen Brown, a Ngangiwumirr and Eastern Arrernte woman from Kungkas Can Cook, as she shares her expertise of cooking with bushfoods, highlighting its cultural significance and superfood qualities.
As the sun sets and the evening kicks in and the MacDonnell ranges come to life with lights, enjoy live music and bush food canapes and drinks.
Wander at your own pace—or choose to return on another night to explore even more.
Your evening concludes at Parrtjima, where the world’s oldest living culture comes alive through breathtaking light installations, powerful cultural storytelling, and immersive experiences.
Wander at your own pace—or choose to return on another night to explore even more.
Date: Saturday 11 April 2026
Time: 17:30 – 19:30
Location: Madigan’s Function Room, Alice Springs Desert Park
Cost: Adult - $130
Inclusions
Talk and tasting platters with Rayleen Brown
Bush food canapés
A selection of cold beverages including wine and beer
Stunning backdrop of the illuminated MacDonnell Ranges
Live music
Transfer to the Madigan’s, Desert Park, return transfer available through Parrtjima event services
Many Hands Watercolour Masterclass
Discover the timeless techniques
Artists from the Hermannsburg School of Art continue Albert Namatjira’s iconic watercolour tradition and are now highly sought-after exhibiting artists, represented by Iltja Ntjarra Many Hands Art Centre.
Join them for a rare and coveted masterclass, where members of the public are invited to paint alongside these distinguished artists. Learn, absorb, and practise their unique approach as you work beside painters and descendants of Albert Namatjira himself.
During the masterclass, you will be guided and encouraged to create your own landscape artwork — a meaningful keepsake to remember the experience..
Date: Friday 10 April and Friday 17 April 2026
Time: 09:30 – 11:30
Location: Iltja Njtarra Many Hands Art Centre, 29 Wilkinson St, Alice Springs
Cost: $125
Inclusions
All painting materials
Facilitated masterclass with Iltja Njtarra Many Hands artists
Morning Tea
Transfers to and from Iltja Njtarra Many Hands Art Centre
The journey takes approximately 15 minutes, stopping at these locations:
Lasseters
Hilton
CBD / Library
Araluen Many Hands
Desert at Dusk
An unforgettable night at the heart of Parrtjima
Arrive at Alice Springs Desert Park at 2:45 PM to begin your journey with the awe-inspiring Nature Theatre Bird Show, where majestic birds of prey sweep across the desert sky in a spectacular display.
Continue with a guided tour of the Desert Park, immersing yourself in the region’s diverse desert habitats, native wildlife, and the deep cultural heritage that shapes Central Australia.
As the sun begins to dip behind the ranges, savour a delicious dinner beneath a canopy of stars, surrounded by the tranquillity of the desert evening.
After dinner, venture into the desert after dark on a nocturnal tour, encountering some of Central Australia’s most captivating night-time creatures in their natural environment.
Your evening concludes at Parrtjima, where the world’s oldest living culture comes alive through breathtaking light installations, powerful cultural storytelling, and immersive experiences. Wander at your own pace—or choose to return on another night to explore even more.
A seamless blend of nature, culture, cuisine, and light—experience the desert like never before.
Date: Tuesday 14 April and Thursday 16 April 2026
Time: 14:45 – 20:00
Location: Alice Springs Desert Park
Cost: Adult - $240
Inclusions
Exclusive access to experienced and accredited Guides
Shared knowledge on how animals, plants and people work simultaneously in the desert environment
Nature theatre bird show
Understand the culturally diverse environment and heritage of Central Australia
Gourmet Bush Dinner (vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options will be available)
Nocturnal Encounters tour
Transfers to the tour (from selected central stops), return transfer available through Parrtjima event services
