Image courtesy of Parrtjima Australia (2025).
Parrtjima is the meeting place where old meets new. It is the only authentic Aboriginal light festival of it’s kind, showcasing the oldest continuous culture on earth through the newest technology – all on the 300-million-year-old natural canvas of the MacDonnell Ranges in Central Australia.
Each year this free event celebrates the ways in which artists evolve and experiment with different styles and materials, while staying true to Country and culture.
Image courtesy of Parrtjima Australia (2025).
Parrtjima is held on Mparntwe (Alice Springs), which is connected to the estates of Mparntwe, Antulye and Irlpme. This also includes a network of people who have connections to these areas; some of whom have established the Parrtjima Festival Reference Group (PFRG) to guide and help create Parrtjima.
Together, they invite visitors to come and experience Parrtjima, and watch the desert come alive with new artworks, light shows and a program of performances, interactive workshops, music, films and talks.
Image courtesy of Parrtjima Australia (2025).
2025 Theme
The timelessness of truth-telling and its power to illuminate the pressing need to preserve the legacy of First Nations culture and storytelling will be the theme for Parrtjima in 2025.
Celebrating its 10th iteration, Parrtjima curator Rhoda Roberts AO urges visitors to take up the invitation to engage with culture in this truly unique setting, as artists push boundaries with new mediums and technologies to share the stories and truths that shaped them.
“More than ever, this year we all need to experience Parrtjima, as the festival continues to shine new light on age-old traditions and fresh expressions. It echoes the urgent need to honour the legacy of culture and the stories that connect us all across time.”
Image courtesy of Parrtjima Australia (2025).
Ms Roberts reminds us of the enduring nature of truth telling, and its power to heal by providing a safe space for expression.
“Truth-telling is timeless; it bridges ancient stories that have shaped us, even when culture has faced interruption and policy-driven division. Parrtjima ensures a space where we all feel special, as the lights of truth illuminate the essence of our culture.”
Ms Roberts also points to the potential for truth telling to lead to a deeper understanding and connection with First Nations culture.
“Timeless truth-telling is about sharing the stories that have shaped us and expressing our desire for our culture to be embraced rather than feared.”
At Parrtjima in 2025, we are invited by the Arrernte people to experience stories as old as time. Stories that connect people to each other through shared truths — to build bridges of understanding that have the power to drive lasting change.
SOURCE: Parrtjima Australia