Parrtjima - A Festival in Light

Parrtjima is Australia’s only First Nations-led light festival, held each year on Arrernte country in Mparntwe (Alice Springs). In 2024, We Are Gather was proud to partner with Northern Territory Major Events Company and Creative Lead Grumpy Sailor to help deliver this powerful ten-day experience – celebrating art, light, story and Country. Our role included event delivery strategy, site layout and design, logistics and production, food and beverage direction, and stakeholder engagement – with a focus on refining visitor experience and building deep, long-term connections with community. The result was a culturally rich and deeply considered festival that honoured story, spotlighted local talent, and strengthened relationships with First Nations businesses and community groups across the region.

The 2024 program transformed Alice Springs into a canvas of light and culture, guided by Artistic Director Rhoda Roberts AO and created in close consultation with local knowledge holders and communities. Guests explored large-scale light and sound installations inspired by Western and Central Desert art movements, with performances, talks and workshops layered throughout the experience. Festival highlights included the towering Arelhe Urrperle puppet, performances by Miiesha, Bunna Lawrie and Coloured Stone, Shellie Morris and Mulga Bore Hard Rock, and inspiring conversations with Aaron Fa’aoso and other cultural leaders. The newly introduced Blak Markets provided space for First Nations artists and makers to showcase and sell their work, while the festival’s workshop program created space for learning, listening and cultural exchange – covering bushfoods, medicine, carving and more.