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). Since 2024, We are Gather are proud to partner with Northern Territory Major Events Company to deliver this powerful ten-day experience in the heart of Australia – celebrating art, light, story, music, language and Country. Our role includes event directive, delivery strategy, site layout and design, logistics and production, programming, food and beverage direction, and stakeholder engagement – with a focus on refining visitor experience and building deep, long-term connections with community. We continue to deliver a festival that is culturally rich and deeply considers that honoured story, spotlight local talent, and strengthened relationships with First Nations businesses and community groups across the region.

The 2024 and 2025 programs 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 Troy Cassar-Daley, Darwin Symphony Orchestra, Bumpy, Bunna Lawrie and Coloured Stone, Shellie Morris and Mulga Bore Hard Rock, and inspiring conversations with Aaron Fa’aoso, Mark Olive and other cultural leaders. The Blak Markets provides a space for First Nations artists and makers to showcase and sell their work, while the festival’s workshop program partners with the likes of Rayleen Brown and Nina Fitzgerald to create a space for learning, listening and cultural exchange – covering bushfoods, medicine, carving and more.