A 60-second guide to the best outback events for 2026

From red-hot rodeos to First Nations fests, here’s what not to miss in the outback this year.

In 2026, the Aussie outback calendar is stacked to the brim with events that celebrate big landscapes and even bigger stories. Whether it’s music, culture, art or community that draws you in, these standout outback events promise unforgettable memories made under impossibly wide skies. So say yes to the journey, lean into the adventure – and see where the red-dirt roads take you.

Caltowie Chilled Out ‘n’ Fired Up Music Festival, SA

21 March, 2026

Caltowie music festival — Caltowie is all about good music and good vibes. (Image: Marc and Kai Fullager)

Strap in for high-energy rock, funk and folk – along with stripped-back soul – in the blink-and-you’ll-miss-it town of Caltowie , located about 2.5 hours north-west of Adelaide.

Parrtjima, NT

10–19 April, 2026

Parrtjima 2026 will explore the theme of Language through light, art, music and storytelling, celebrating the power of Aboriginal languages, from ancient songlines to contemporary expressions. Highlights include Electric Fields headlining on the opening night, hands-on language workshops, Blak Markets and bush food experiences.

Festival of Outback Opera, Qld

19–25 May, 2026

Ethereal voices and superb sunsets come together in perfect harmony at this annual series of outdoor concerts . Join a singalong, partake in music trivia or frock up for a dark sky serenade.

Barunga Festival, NT

5–8 June, 2026

One of Barunga’s main features is the Bunggul traditional dance. (Image: Tourism NT/Alana Holmberg)

Celebrating the cultural diversity of the region, Barunga’s yearly community fest features traditional dance, spear throwing, cooking and walking tours guided by juniors from Barunga School.

Alice Springs Beanie Fest, NT

19–22 June, 2026

Anyone is welcome to make beanies for the Beanie Festival.

Grab your knitting needles and crochet hooks for one last hurrah – 2026 marks the 30th and final Beanie Fest at the Araluen Arts Centre in Alice Springs, where crocheting, creativity and good causes stitch together.

Outback Writers’ Festival, Qld

23–26 June, 2026

Now in its 11th year, the Outback Writers’ Festival in Winton promises thought-provoking book launches, panels and workshops spotlighting rural-based authors.

Birdsville Big Red Bash, Qld

7–9 July, 2026

This legendary music festival in the Simpson Desert is lighting up the outback once again with a 2026 line-up including Missy Higgins and The Teskey Brothers, while its NSW-based sister Broken Hill Mundi Mundi Bash (20–22 August) will welcome the likes of Boy & Bear and Jessica Mauboy to the stage.

Garma Festival, NT

31 July – 3 August, 2026

Garma fesrtival — Garma showcases traditional art, music and storytelling. (Image: Peter Eve)

This four-day-long ode to Yolŋu customs and knowledge is one of Australia’s largest celebrations of Indigenous culture. Expect vibrant displays of traditional miny’tji (art), manikay (song) and storytelling that stirs the soul.

Desert Harmony Festival, NT

1–4 August, 2026

Over four days each year, Tennant Creek comes alive with music, dance and creative workshops that support Indigenous communities in the Barkly Region.

Mount Isa Mines Rodeo, Qld

7–9 August, 2026

rodeo action — Rodeo stars deliver heart-pounding action.

Saddle up for three heart-pounding days of bulls, broncs and rodeo stars in Queensland’s north-west outback. Don’t miss the Indigenous Rodeo Championships on the Sunday.

Coolgardie Outback Festival, WA

14–16 August, 2026

Coolgardie Festival — Three action-packed days of competitions and entertainment. (Image: Kirk Laurie Norman)

Spanning rodeo and barrel racing, live music and markets, the Coolgardie Outback Festival (558 kilometres east of Perth) is bursting with country spirit.

Desert Mob, NT

10 September – 25 October, 2026

Dessert Mob — Desert Mob brings together hundreds of artists to celebrate desert culture. (Image: Tourism NT)

Alice Springs is home to one of the country’s oldest Aboriginal art festivals . Stop by to discover works from more than 30 Indigenous art centres, plus enriching artist talks and a lively marketplace.

Deni Ute Muster, NSW

2–3 October, 2026

Rally the troops for two days of turbo-charged entertainment. Established in 1999 to put the country town of Deniliquin on the map, the Deni Ute Muster is an epic blend of concerts, ute comps and camping.

Be invigorated by the sights, sounds and landscapes of the Northern Territory.

If your 2026 travel goals focus on visiting inspiring and meaningful destinations, look no further than the Northern Territory. Rich in Indigenous culture, national parks and unique local cuisine, a journey deep into the Red Centre and Top End will awaken all your senses and leave you with lifelong memories. But you don’t need to do it on your own, as AAT Kings’ Small Group tours offer expertly led itineraries. They’re designed to take the guesswork out of travel planning and help you access remote regions in comfort while connecting with fellow guests, allowing you to delve deeper into destinations with insights from knowledgeable Travel Directors and local Indigenous guides.

As Small Group tours with AAT Kings have an average of just 16 guests, there’s ample opportunity to ask questions and make meaningful connections on every visit. Here are just a few of the experiences on offer, with adventures designed to invigorate every sense.

1. Under a Desert Moon dinner

Under a Desert Moon dinner in northern territory — Watch the stars come out over five courses.

Over five courses, dine under the stars during an unforgettable Outback dining experience. As day fades to night, lit only by the moon and the crackling fire, this outdoor dinner features locally sourced seasonal produce, matched with Australian wines.

It’s an intimate experience, showcasing the quiet grandeur of the Outback after nightfall. As you dine, feel connected to the land and its unique flavours, introduced by your impeccable waitstaff.

Part of the Northern Territory Dreaming tour, the Under a Desert Moon dinner is the ideal way to connect with your small group of fellow travellers after an invigorating day in the Red Centre.

2. Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience

The best way to learn the stories of the Red Centre is by connecting with the land’s Traditional Owners. At the Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience, visited on AAT Kings Northern Territory Dreaming and Outback Contrasts tours, you’ll meet with members of the local Wanmarra community in Kings Canyon.

On this immersive AAT Kings MAKE TRAVEL MATTER^® Experience you’ll walk on Country to learn firsthand about bush tucker, Indigenous medicine, wooden artefacts and the art of dot painting. Passionate guides will share stories that have been passed down for generations.

3. Kungkas Can Cook

Kungkas Can Cook set up at Simpson's Gap — Taste local bush delicacies. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ Mel Brautigam)

The powerful senses of smell and taste are awakened on this exclusive experience led by Indigenous chef Rayleen Brown. Included in the Northern Territory Dreaming and Outback Contrasts tours, this is a unique opportunity to savour local bush delicacies and learn about Indigenous culture through the lens of food.

Brown, a recipe author and guest judge for MasterChef Australia, works solely with native ingredients directly harvested by women from the Alice Springs community. It’s a 100 per cent Indigenous owned and run business.

4. Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles)

woman walking by Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles) — See striking Karlu Karlu. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ Dom And Jesso)

Appearing out of nowhere, the huge granite boulders of Karlu Karlu seem to precariously balance on the barren Outback landscape. You’ll come across these geological formations as you cruise the Stuart Highway on the Northern Territory Explorer tour.

Your AAT Kings Travel Director will share expert insight on the history and culture of Karlu Karlu, recognised as a sacred site of the Warumungu people. As you walk in awe amongst these stunning formations, formed many millennia ago, you’ll hear some of the stories behind why this place is so important to Indigenous storytelling and culture.

5. Pudakul

Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural Tours — Experience this family-owned Indigenous experience. (Images: Tourism & Events NT/ Helen Orr)

Make authentic cultural connections when you visit Pudakul, a family-owned Indigenous experience on the Adelaide River Flood Plains. On your Small Group Northern Territory Explorer tour your senses will be inspired by the sounds of First Nations music, the taste of local bush tucker and the beauty of art.

This AAT Kings MAKE TRAVEL MATTER^® Experience is designed to take you deeper into the destination, helping guests learn from the people of the Limilngan-Wulna Land.

6. Corroboree Billabong Wetland Cruise

Observing the unique wildlife of the Northern Territory – from formidable crocs to hearing gentle melodies from the many endemic bird species – is always one of the most memorable parts of your Northern Territory Dreaming tour.

Travel in the comfort of your premium coach, taking in the stunning landscapes, before arriving at Corroboree Billabong. This special place is part of the Mary River Wetlands and is home to the world’s largest concentration of saltwater crocodiles. Your comfortable boat is designed to maximise wildlife viewing, giving you a front row seat to this spectacular ecosystem.

7. Aboriginal Bush Traders

artist at Aboriginal Bush Traders in darwin — Visit for the art, stay for a bite. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ Shaana McNaught)

A visit to Aboriginal Bush Traders is the ideal introduction to the vibrant city of Darwin. This non-profit gallery, cafe and retail space supports Indigenous employment and is the perfect place to find a curated selection of ethical Indigenous gifts, including artwork and organic skincare.

Your Northern Territory Top End National Parks and Northern Territory Dreaming tours include an exclusive native flavour tasting, offering cultural insight before travelling deeper into the Top End.

8. Leliyn (Edith Falls)

woman swimming in Leliyn (Edith Falls) — Cool off at Leliyn (Edith Falls). (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ As We Wander)

There’s something about a mighty waterfall that invigorates the soul like nothing else, with the picturesque Leliyn (Edith Falls) the perfect place to refresh on a hot day.

On your Northern Territory Top End National Parks and Northern Territory Dreaming visit to Nitmiluk National Park, known for its epic sandstone gorges, you’ll pay a visit to the oasis that is Leliyn. It’s the ideal place for a swim, but it’s also home to ancient Indigenous rock art. And as your Travel Director will explain, it’s an impressive place of cultural significance, too.

Make 2026 the year to discover the flavours, culture and beauty of the Northern Territory at aatkings.com.