Get ready for a celestial event like no other! The McGowan Government has just announced an incredible lineup of events for the Dark Sky Festival in the Shires of Ashburton, Carnarvon, and Exmouth.
This festival is part of the government’s $22 million investment in the Total Solar Eclipse preparations and legacy, and it promises to make your trip to the Coral Coast for the Solar Eclipse on April 20, 2023, an unforgettable experience!
The Dark Sky Festival will run for four days, offering a mix of free and ticketed events that will cater to all tastes. From live music performances and family-friendly activities to exceptional dining experiences, stargazing tours, and photography lessons for budding astronomers, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
One of the highlights of the festival is the inaugural Jamba Nyinayi Festival, a Baiyungu Aboriginal Corporation event hosted by Traditional Owner Hazel Walgar at Cardabia Station near Coral Bay on April 19th, the night before the eclipse. Jamba Nyinayi will feature a drone show by Fremantle Biennale with storytelling from Traditional Owners, as well as local and original indigenous music, dance, food, and fire.
Music lovers will be thrilled to know that the Dark Sky Festival offers a new three-day family-friendly festival of live performances at SolFest in Talanjee Oval in Exmouth from April 19th to 21st, featuring local and Perth musicians. The best part? SolFest is free to attend for those with existing accommodation in the town of Exmouth.
Foodies, get ready to indulge! Exmouth will play host to a seaside seafood barbecue as part of the festival, as well as a Totality Brunch at The Yacht Club, offering fine dining as the Solar Eclipse takes place. Fremantle Biennale’s Aboriginal-inspired drone show will also take place on Town Beach in Exmouth on April 20th, the night of the Solar Eclipse.
Astronomy enthusiasts, you are in for a treat! There will be a series of Stargazing Sessions with Astrotourism WA astronomy guides, an astrophotography exhibition and workshops, SciTech STEM-based activities for children, and public talks including popular Western Australian astronomer Greg Quike.
Onslow will also offer a free waterfront street festival on April 20th, followed by a free concert with bands and DJs at Thalanyji Oval on April 22nd. And, for those who love a good gastronomic adventure, the Fervor Dark Sky Dining events at Dreamers Hill from April 21st to 22nd will merge astronomy with gastronomy!
The funding includes improvements to the region’s roads, marine infrastructure, telecommunication networks, and local facilities, and will contribute to a lasting legacy for the region.
If you haven’t booked your trip yet, it’s not too late! Thousands of international and domestic visitors are expected to travel to WA to witness the Total Solar Eclipse on April 20th, 2023. Exmouth is the best place in Australia located in the path of a 100 per cent eclipse, but there will be near-total eclipses across the region. Onslow and Coral Bay will experience 99 per cent darkness, while Carnarvon will enjoy about a 95 per cent eclipse.
Representatives from 14 State Government agencies have been working in partnership with the local shires of Exmouth, Carnarvon, and Ashburton, and the Department of Defence to ensure local communities, including businesses, are supported, and the region is prepared for an influx of visitors.
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to witness a once-in-a-lifetime celestial event and immerse yourself in the unique and captivating culture of Western Australia.
