Parrtjima 2022 a smash hit for NT economy with record number of attendees, almost $15m in spending

Parrtjima 2022 proved to be a record breaking success in terms of both attendance records and visitor spending. SEE ALL THE NUMBERS.

A RECORD-breaking 23,445 people attended Parrtjima 2022 which almost generating a total expenditure stimulus of $14.7 million across its 10 nights, according to independent research.

The event took place between April 8-17 this year and over 70 per cent of interstate visitors travelled to Alice Springs specifically to attend Parrtjima.

The light festival in 2022 was responsible for a total expenditure stimulus of $14.7 million, which was well up from $11.6 million in 2021.

Tourists enjoy the lights of Parrtjima 2022. Picture: (A)manda Parkinson

Major Events Minister Paul Kirby said the festival’s results were huge for NT tourism.

“Parrtjima has delivered another year of strong results, with impressive figures showing more than half of all visitors to the festival came from interstate,” he said.

“This is great news for the Territory’s tourism and hospitality industries.

“Anyone who was in the Red Centre around the time of Parrtjima could see for themselves how busy the town was, with hotels, hire cars and tourism experiences fully booked, and Todd Mall bustling with activity.”

Mr Kirby also said that the event has potential to grow even more.

“The event itself was magic and offered a unique and incredible experience for locals and interstaters,” he said.

“This research shows investment in amazing events like this one benefits the Territory and its businesses.

“The level of attendee satisfaction at Parrtjima continues to climb every year and it means visitors will spread the word to help us continue to grow this great event.”

Parrtjima 2023 will take place from April 7-16, 2023, with the theme to be announced later this year.

Alice Springs Mayor Matt Paterson said that Parrtjima was a major success for the Red Centre.
“The 2022 edition of the Parrtjima Festival was a brilliant event, anyone that was lucky enough to attend would agree I’m sure,” he said.
“NT Major Events did a fantastic job and it was amazing to see so many people, both locals and visitors, attend across the week.
“I look forward to working with the NT Government to bring more events like Parrtjima to the Red Centre.”