Dates: 5 – 23 August 2026
This unmissable celebration brings together the spirit of the Top End with a vibrant program of arts, culture, food, stories, dancing, and laughter to fill your heart, mind, and soul.
Over 18 unforgettable days, experience theatre, music, comedy, circus, cabaret, dance, visual arts, unique food and beverage experiences, and awe-inspiring storytelling. Loved by locals and adored by visitors, this annual festival is the centrepiece of Darwin's dry season, making August the best time of year to visit.
Through dynamic programming, innovative partnerships, and a commitment to artistic expression, artists from the Northern Territory, Australia, and around the world come together to share, connect, and inspire through the power of the arts. Darwin Festival continues to entertain and unite audiences, cementing its place as a leading cultural event in the Northern Territory and beyond.
All tickets from $0 to $79
Free and paid events. Average ticket price $44
The Cardwell Pioneer Tours are currently operating every Monday and Thursday morning from 10am at the Visitor Information and Heritage Centre located in Cardwell. The tour incorporates all the buildings in the historic precinct and takes visitors on a fascinating journey of the area’s colourful history as they move through each building. The tour begins at the old Bush Telegraph building which was the Telegraph and Post Office and explains how Cardwell was founded in 1864 as the first port in North Queensland. Over in the Courthouse visitors can gain an understanding of the old judicial system. Several interesting items are on display including the original straight-jackets used in Tully to restrain the more energetic offenders. The old lock-up building was still in use during the1980s at the Cardwell Police Station. The final building is the old Shire Hall which the community used for a multitude of purposes included balls and other formal social events. The tour concludes on the balcony of the Visitor Information Centre where visitors can enjoy a complementary Devonshire Tea while taking in one of the best views in North Queensland overlooking Hinchinbrook Island, Gould Island and the Family Islands
Date: 19/09/2026
The Show has many different activities that happen throughout the year, along with our annual Show in September. This community event is a great day to catch up with locals and visitors to our town, and enjoy the great entertainment provided throughout the day. There are displays of local art, photography, cooking, history, and so much more. The town oval becomes an arena for our horses and dog trials on Show Day. There are many other attractions on Show Day; our Shearing Competition is a well attended and viewed event, the food and market stalls throughout the day. Live entertainment and the poultry sections are also well supported on this day.
We are also the town's RV Park operators. Our Park and it's facilities is an ongoing and growing attraction from our dedicated Committee for our Community and tourism in town. We have power and water sites available for $20, and unpowered sites for $10 a night, with toilet amenities and showers ($2 for 4 minutes).
