Parrtjima, an annual festival celebrating Aboriginal cultures through light, music and storytelling, has unveiled its 2026 music program, bringing an exceptional lineup of Indigenous artists and celebrated performers to Mparntwe (Alice Springs) April 10-19.
Set in the heart of Australia, Mparntwe provides a world-class cultural backdrop for Parrtjima, with installations, music and workshops unfolding within the Red Centre landscape.
Electric Fields will open the festival, marking a return to Parrtjima after a remarkable few years on the national and international stage. The multi‑award‑winning duo has built a career that bridges electronic music, soul and language, representing Australia at Eurovision in 2024 and collecting multiple ARIA, AIR and NIMA honours. The high‑energy performance will set the 10‑day free festival.
"Parrtjima is one of the most profound festivals on the planet! We can't wait to see you all there," said Electric Fields frontman Zaachariaha Fielding.
Barkaa, acclaimed hip hop artist and a proud Malyangapa, Barkindji woman who has reshaped the Australian music landscape also joins the lineup. Barkaa is known for her sharp lyricism, fearless storytelling and powerful presence. Her debut EP Blak Matriarchy earned two ARIA nominations and a National Indigenous Music Award, with 2024 marking a breakout year that included a sold‑out Sydney Opera House performance and national tour.
Australian First Nations hip‑hop supergroup 3%, will add further depth to the program. Its inclusion brings a dynamic new energy to the Parrtjima stage, showcasing the strength of contemporary Indigenous music and the impact of collaboration across communities and cultures.
"I've been lucky enough to perform at this amazing festival before and can't wait to come back and have a great night with all the amazing people and artists that make Parrtjima the unique experience it is, " said 3% member Dallas Woods.
Also performing is a duo from Territory band Drifting Clouds, a family band from Gapuwiyak led by singer, songwriter and keyboardist Terry Guyula. Known for its ethereal sound blending synthpop, 80s influences, rock and country - the duo draws deeply on connections to songlines, Dreamtime stories and life in community. Drifting Clouds has performed at leading NT cultural festivals including Garma, Barunga and Bush Bands Bash.
The 2026 program also proudly features a strong lineup of local Central Australian artists, including Alice Kings, Sneaky Train, Damien Armstrong, and more. These artists bring the heart of Mparntwe to the Parrtjima stage, showcasing the depth of local talent and the vibrant musical traditions that continue to shape the region's cultural identity.
Celebrated singer‑songwriter, renowned for her powerful vocals and deeply emotive storytelling, Emma Donovan will also perform. Donovan is a proud Gumbaynggirr and Noongar woman. She has built an extraordinary career across solo work, collaborations and festival stages nationwide. Her long‑running partnership with The Putbacks has earned multiple awards and critical acclaim, and her recent project, Take Me To The River continues to showcase her artistry through a rich blend of soul, culture and influence.
Tourism and Events NT chief executive Suzana Bishop said this year showcased one of the most incredible music lineups ever presented at Parrtjima.
"Parrtjima continues to grow as one of Australia's most important cultural festivals, and this year it coincides with the school holidays, so we're excited to be able to welcome families from around the country. We are incredibly proud to deliver this event, providing Australians with a truly unique and immersive experience of Aboriginal culture under the desert sky and on Country," she said.
"Events like Parrtjima play a vital role in strengthening the Territory's visitor economy and the 2026 music lineup reflects our commitment to delivering world‑class cultural experiences that honour the world's oldest continuous culture while drawing national and international attention to the NT."
Parrtjima is delivered by Tourism and Events NT in partnership with We Are Gather and Grumpy Sailor.
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