Townsville’s vibrant arts scene comes alive this week with the official opening of the North Australian Festival of Arts (NAFA), welcoming locals and visitors alike to celebrate creativity, culture, and community.
Running from Wednesday 24 September to Sunday 12 October, the festival will transform the city into a hub of live performance, music, First Nations arts and culture, visual art, cabaret, circus, and family-friendly entertainment.
NAFA 2025 promises an unforgettable program featuring acclaimed national and international acts alongside exceptional homegrown talent. Showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of North Queensland, the festival provides a dynamic platform for artists to connect with audiences of all
ages.
“NAFA is about bringing people together through the power of the arts,” said Lachlan Welsh, NAFA CEO. “This year’s program celebrates diversity, storytelling, and world-class creativity right here in Townsville. We’re thrilled to officially open the festival and invite everyone to immerse themselves in the experience.”
Townsville Acting Mayor Ann-Maree Greaney said she was excited to see such a diverse and interesting program for NAFA this year.
“Council is proud to be supporting NAFA during its first year as an independent event. Since 2019 NAFA has been wowing audiences with remarkable performances, workshops and experiences in the heart of Townsville,” Cr Greaney said.
“This year Townsville will be welcoming award-winning Australian instrumentalist William Barton back to our city to open the festival, which is jam-packed with remarkable local and national talents.
“I’m very much looking forward to heading along to some of the shows across the city. Best wishes to all of the performers taking part in this year’s festival.”
Festival Highlights
- A spectacular opening weekend with comedian Arj Barker, a sunrise concert with William Barton and the Wulgurukaba Walkabouts, and Patricia Piccinini’s awe-inspiring “Skywhales” floating across the skies.
- Performances from international artists hailing from Mexico and the Netherlands.
- Free community events across the city, including ILBIJERRI Theatre Company’s Big Name, No Blankets, workshops, and surprise pop-up performances.
- An action-packed school holiday program with shows for children and families.
- The first-ever pool party hosted at Townsville’s iconic Rockpool.
- World renowned DJ, Ninajirachi who has just been announced on the 2026 Coachella lineup will light up the stage in the Aurora Spiegeltent on Saturday 11th October.
As a flagship cultural event for the region, the North Australian Festival of Arts continues to draw thousands of visitors, delivering significant economic, cultural, and community impact.
Tickets for headline shows are on sale now at nafa-tsv.com.au, with many free community events also on offer to ensure NAFA remains open and accessible to all.
Townsville City Council and Arts Queensland are major funding partners of the North Australian Festival of Arts.