The countdown is on to Darwin’s biggest Christmas celebration, with just over a week remaining to join the Darwin Christmas Pageant and bring some festive cheer to the city streets.
The Department of Tourism and Hospitality is calling on schools, sporting clubs, community groups, cultural organisations and businesses to register a float before entries close on Friday 30 October 2026.
Set to return on Saturday 14 November 2026, the Darwin Christmas Pageant will once again deliver colour, creativity and the Christmas spirit as part of a packed program of free, family-friendly festive celebrations.
Eligible participants can apply for up to $500 in funding through the City of Darwin to help with the construction and presentation of their float, with terms and conditions applying.
The festivities will begin with the Christmas Makers Market from 4pm to 7pm in The Mall, before the Darwin Christmas Pageant takes over the city streets from 6pm to 6.45pm.
The community can then follow the celebrations to the Lord Mayor’s Lighting of the Christmas Tree from 7pm, before settling into Civic Park for the Christmas Concert from 7.30pm to 9pm, featuring local performers, schools and community groups.
For pageant information and float registration details, visit:
Float registrations close Friday 30 October 2026.
Quotes from Tourism and Events NT Executive Director of Events, Aimee Luxton:
“The Darwin Christmas Pageant is all about community, and we’re calling on schools, sporting clubs, businesses and community organisations to get involved before registrations close next week.
“Whether you have a simple idea or an elaborate design, the Pageant is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your organisation, celebrate the festive season and help create a memorable experience for thousands of Territorians.
“Now is the perfect time to gather your team, get creative and register before it’s too late.”
Quotes from City of Darwin Lord Mayor Peter Styles:
“The Christmas Pageant is one of the city’s most anticipated community celebrations, bringing people together to kick off the festive season.
“Christmas in Darwin is a wonderful time of year, and there’s nothing quite like seeing our city streets come alive with colourful floats, festive performances and families celebrating together.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone into the city for an evening of festivities, from the Christmas Pageant and the lighting of our Christmas tree to a fantastic concert showcasing local talent.
“It’s a great opportunity to celebrate our community, support our city centre businesses and enjoy everything Darwin has to offer during the festive season.”
