GleNTi 2025: Final preparations underway for festival running June 7-8

With just days to go before the Darwin GleNTi Festival returns, the Greek community has laid down the welcome mat to the community. Here’s what to expect.

With just days to go before the Darwin GleNTi Festival returns, the Greek community has laid down the welcome mat to the community, promising plenty of tasty treats at the event.

Volunteers have been working hard to prepare for the festival – making 3.5 tonnes of souvla, 600kg of dolmades, two tonnes of octopus, 800kg of calamari and about 12,000 souvlaki.

The event will run from 11am to 10pm from Saturday June 7 to June 8 at Bicentennial Park at the Esplanade.

It is free to attend.

Minister for Major Events Marie-Clare Boothby said GleNTi was a true celebration of the Territory’s multiculturalism.

Darwin GleNTi will return for 2025 from June 7-8 at Bicentennial Park, the Esplanade. Photo: Georgia Politis Photography

“The incredible dedication of the Greek community to this event ensures GleNTi remains a highlight for both locals and visitors year after year,” Ms Boothby said.

Punters will enjoy a range of traditional Greek delicacies, dancing and performances including a special performance by the ‘GleNTi All-Star Band’ – who will fly in for the occasion.

Plate breaking challenges, a pita eating competition and drawing contests will also be held, in addition to a range of amusement rides, entertainment and a live performance of ‘The Smurfs’.

Greek Orthodox Community of NA Inc President Michael Koulianos said GleNTi was “more than just a festival”.

“It’s a celebration of community, heritage and the incredible multicultural spirit of the Northern Territory,” he said.

The NTG in the 2025-26 budget allocated $36.5m to major events.

Originally published as GleNTi 2025: Final preparations underway for festival running June 7-8