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New exclusive cultural experiences

Outdoor presentation in a desert amphitheater with attendees seated, surrounded by rocky hills and sparse vegetation under a clear sky.
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  3. Parrtjima 2026 unveils three new exclusive cultural experiences

Parrtjima will offer visitors an even deeper connection to Central Australia in 2026, with three new exclusive add‑on experiences expanding this year’s program. For the first time, festival‑goers can book intimate cultural, creative and nature‑based activities held outside the main festival site, providing a unique way to engage with Country, culture and the desert night. Places are strictly limited.

The Merne Mwerre Bushfood Experience invites guests to join Ngangiwumirr and Eastern Arrernte woman Rayleen Brown, founder of Kungkas Can Cook, for an evening exploring the world of bushfoods. Held at Madigan’s Function Room in the Desert Park, the two‑hour experience, running from 5.30pm – 7.30pm, includes native‑inspired canapés, tasting platters, drinks and live music set against the illuminated MacDonnell Ranges. Rayleen will share the cultural significance and superfood qualities of ingredients that have sustained the world’s oldest living culture, before guests walk to Parrtjima to explore the light installations at their own pace. The experience will be held on Saturday 11 April and costs $130.

Two chefs demonstrate cooking under a tent, with a lively audience watching intently. Bright lights illuminate the scene.

Visitors can also take part in the Many Hands Watercolour Masterclass on Friday 10 April and Friday 17 April, from 9.30am – 11.30am. Led by artists from the Iltja Ntjarra Many Hands Art Centre, descendants and custodians of Albert Namatjira’s iconic watercolour tradition, the masterclass offers a rare opportunity to learn directly from these highly regarded artists. Participants will be guided to create their own landscape artwork to take home, with all materials, morning tea and transfers included to the Iltja Ntjarra Many Hands Art Centre. Tickets are $125.

Rounding out the new offerings is Desert at Dusk, a premium evening experience on Tuesday 14 April from 2.45pm – 8pm that blends nature, culture and cuisine. Guests begin with the Nature Theatre Bird Show at Alice Springs Desert Park, followed by a guided tour through desert habitats and cultural landscapes. A gourmet bush dinner under the stars and a nocturnal wildlife encounter lead into the final stop at Parrtjima, where visitors can wander the illuminated installations or return on another night using their festival pass. Tickets are $240.

These new experiences offer festival‑goers a deeper way to connect with the stories, landscapes and people of Central Australia, enriching their Parrtjima journey beyond the main festival site. Bookings are essential.

Click below for more information and to book your exclusive experience.

People engaged in an art workshop, painting and drawing at a table in a lively indoor setting.
Outdoor presentation in a desert amphitheater with attendees seated, surrounded by rocky hills and sparse vegetation under a clear sky.
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