Words by: Sue Moffitt
Darwin and the Top End has two seasons, the wet season and the Dry. Unlike most other parts of Australia it’s the dry season (the winter) that many locals and visitors crave for. The weather is perfect – clear blue skies, no rain, cool nights and hot days. Living and playing outdoors is the way to go.
Normally the dry season arrives gradually but this year we seem to have switched suddenly from cloudy, stormy skies and lots of rain to cool mornings with lots of sunshine. Outdoor attractions have already opened their doors, dry season markets are about to start and we, like lots of others, are planning our next camping trip.
My blog this month focuses on the outdoor lifestyle that kicks off Darwin in the Dry. So here goes:
The Deckchair Cinema
This cinema is a unique and iconic attraction and opened last week on Wednesday 7th April. Lie back in your deckchair and watch some fascinating, “dendy style” local and foreign movies often not available anywhere else. The cinema is right alongside the harbour with perfect views of the sun as it sets across the water. There’s a funky dining area including high stools and tables for a glass or two of wine and local restaurants provide a fabulous, tasty selection of hot food. Lush green vegetation surrounds the seating areas and often a possum or two can be heard (even seen) barking in the trees. I’ve also seen fireflies and heard the occasional cockatoo. The movies under the stars programme runs from April to November with Flix in the Wet running through the early wet season.
Photo credit: Deckchair Cinema
Mindil Beach Sunset Market
(extract from my book, Darwin for all Seasons)
A buzzy and busy market for both visitors and locals who just can’t resist seeing one of the best sunsets in town. Sit on the beach as the sun disappears into blazing colours of red and orange. Don’t forget that camera! Market stalls take over the beachfront with cuisine from all corners of the world Grab a few oysters or steaming corn on the cob or a curry, a crepe, or a homemade ice-cream. It’s endless eating!! And don’t forget the art and craft stalls; there’s bound to be the perfect souvenir just for you. The markets run from the end of April to October on both Thursday and Sunday evenings.
Photo credit: Mindil Beach Sunset Market
Malak Market Place
(extract from my book, Darwin for all Seasons)
This local and organic farmers market is a fun and family affair. A colourful array of red umbrellas shade loads of tables and chairs where people gather and chat. Food trucks with tempting and unique menus sit alongside tables piled high with fresh fruits and vegetables. The markets run on Saturdays from 1st May 2021.
A note for your diary, the markets will also “Pop Up” in the George Brown Botanic Gardens on Friday 18th of June and Friday 17th of September.
Photo credit: Malak Marketplace
Outdoor Events in May
- Tactile Arts Mother’s Day Markets on Saturday 8th May at the Waterfront
- Pure 2021 on 1st May in the George Brown Botanic Gardens
- Bass in the Grass 15th May
- Indian Street Food Festival 1st May in the Mall
Plus more…see our events page for more events.
All about Sue
Sue is absolutely passionate about living in Darwin. She says "It is the best place I have ever lived". She has published three guide books with her new book “Darwin for all Seasons” just being published. Sue has a background in travel and tourism, owning her own tour guiding company in Sydney and in her books, she captures a really intimate view of Darwin and the Top End with her own personal tips and local haunts.
Click here to see more about Sue.
