Desert Song Festival

Over 6 days in September 2024, singers and musicians, choirs and audiences from Alice Springs and Central Australia and visitors to the region will experience something special, as artists from this vibrant multi-cultural community come together to present a series of events that showcase incredible local musical talent. As well, the exceptional talent of visiting interstate and international artists will also be on display.

Through major concerts, workshops and masterclasses, the choirs, small vocal ensembles, musicians and solo performers will present 24 events celebrating the singer, the song, the instrument, the land and its people. The robust crucible of living languages, vibrant cultures and the depth of wisdom of 60,000 years of human occupation of Central Australia, informs and shapes the Desert Song Festival program that fosters pride, resilience and cohesion within the community. Its setting is Arrernte country – Mparntwe – Alice Springs. The majestic ranges and gorges of Central Australia are its backdrop. Its stages are iconic heritage venues within the built environment of Alice Springs.

Desert Song Festival celebrates the best of ourselves, facilitates connection with the traditional custodians of Central Australia, their land, lore, culture and languages and presents visitors with compelling reasons to ‘do the NT’, by visiting ‘a town like Alice’ to attend the Desert Song Festival.