WITH the dry season and cooler temperatures, the Northern Territory is abuzz with activity. Take a look at what's happening ... it will have you booking your flights and packing your bags.
Beer Can Regatta (Darwin) July 9 - See boats built of beer cans, plastic soft drink bottles and cartons put to the test and get involved in some of the silly competitions that take place at this unique festival. Thousands gather for this annual family event on Mindil Beach, taking full advantage of the balmy dry season weather.
Apex Camel Cup (Alice Springs) July 15 - This quirky annual event attracts visitors from all over the world. While camels may have a reputation as "ships of the desert", these magnificent beasts are certainly not short on personality. Entertainment is assured, with nine races scheduled around the dusty outback track.
Walking with Spirits (Katherine) July 15 - Presented by Djilpin Arts in the community of Beswick/Wugularr, 90 minutes' drive from Katherine. Visitors can witness a traditional corroborree from several Arnhem Land languages in partnership with the Australian Shakespeare Company over this exclusive weekend.
Darwin Festival, August 10-27 - Combines the local love of outdoor community festivities and dining with a program of Australian and international performances and exhibitions. Festival goers can be seen for 18 nights each August at the long communal tables in the festooned Festival Park eating Darwin's legendary Asian food and arguing about who has seen the most shows.
Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair, August 11-13 - Affectionately known as DAAF, this event provides an opportunity for arts industry buyers, and art and design aficionados, to buy art directly from Indigenous owned and incorporated art centres. The fair showcases the work of emerging and established artists, and provides a space for visitors to meet them.
Henley on Todd Regatta (Alice Springs) August 19 - This is an amazing boat race - without any sign of water! It's an action-packed day where teams and individuals race "boats" in the dry bed of the Todd River. There are bottomless eights, Oxford tubs, rowing eights and yachts.
Stay in the heart of Darwin
WITH so much to see and do in Darwin this winter, Metro Advance Apartments & Hotel in the heart of the city has some great value early bird and longer stay deals with up to 15 per cent off standard rates.
The hotel is also close to Mindil Beach Sunset Markets, the waterfront and Darwin Casino, and is within walking distance of Darwin Mall and popular night spots.
The property offers serviced apartments, including studios, one, two and three-bedroom apartments, secure undercover parking, an alfresco barbecue area and swimming pool.
1800-004-321, www.metrohotels.com.au
