Barunga Festival, held annually on the Queen's birthday long weekend (10-12th June, 2016) is now in its 31st year, earning its place as one of the most important community festivals in regional Australia.
The Festival has a strong history of showcasing the Katherine region and supporting remote Indigenous communities to come together and celebrate the positive aspects of community life through football, basketball, softball, music (contemporary and traditional), traditional arts and culture. Visitors of all ages are encouraged to join in the festivities and enjoy this unique opportunity to engage with a remote Indigenous community.
The 2015 Festival attracted around 4,000 visitors from far and wide, and garnered national and international media coverage.
In 2016, this much-loved Territory event promises to deliver an incredible program of music, sport, culture, art, dance, kids activities, workshops, healthy food and many more festive treats - all of which will be revealed in the New Year.
Some things you need to know about coming to Barunga:
***Entry fee valid for 3-day Festival (includes camping fees).
***Barunga is located 70kms south-east of Katherine on Central Arnhem Rd (sealed road, no need for 4WDs).
***Fuel is unavailable for sale at Barunga Community, make sure you fill up in Katherine.
***Barunga is a dry community, and the Festival is a strictly drug and alcohol free event. Please note there will be police checks on the road to Barunga and your car may be searched.
***Camping areas available in Barunga Community. Festival staff will direct you to these areas. If camping doesn't appeal there are hotel/motel options in Katherine (http://www.visitkatherine.com.au/)
***There will be a combination of portable and permanent toilets on site, but showering facilities are very limited. There is a beautiful (croc free) river to swim in!
***Barunga Festival 2015 has a healthy food policy. A variety of food options will be available at reasonable prices throughout the Festival. The Outback (general) Store in Barunga is incredibly well stocked and surprisingly affordable. Support the community by buying locally if you can!
***Access from 10am Friday the 10th June to lunchtime Monday the 13th of June.
***Wristbands will be issued at the gate and MUST be kept on for the duration of the Festival.
For more information, please visit the Barunga Festival website FAQs - http://barungafestival.com.au/index.php/faq/
Barunga Festival 2025
Fri 6 Jun 2025, 12.00pm | Barunga Community, NT
An immersive Aboriginal cultural experience festival celebrating Indigenous music, art, culture and sport more »
Get Tickets