Thinking of travelling through The Kimberley in 2017? Broome, Kununurra, Derby, Port Hedland and the rest of the North West have so many rich cultural and entertaining events on offer throughout the year, so make sure to catch any local events you can while you’re there. Here are some of the most popular upcoming events in the region for 2017.
When? |
Where? |
What’s On? |
What’s That? |
13-15 March 2017 |
Broome |
Staircase to the Moon |
Staircase to the Moon is a natural phenomenon that happens in Broome at various dates throughout March to October each year. For three nights each month, the full moon, combined with low tide, creates the appearance of a staircase to the moon on the water’s surface.View it for free from Town Beach – walking distance from Broome hotels including Mercure and Moonlight Bay Suites, or a 10-minute drive from Cable Beach hotels. Mangrove Hotel overlooks the bay and provides a great view. Their bar is open to the public so get in early to secure your spot and watch the moon rise.March 2017 Dates:13 March 18.4314 March 19.2215 March 20.01 |
12-14 April 2017 |
Broome |
Staircase to the Moon |
See March Staircase to the Moon for more information on this event that takes place monthly from March to October.April 2017 dates:12 April 18.3713 April 19.1714 April 19.59 |
6 May 2017 |
Lake Argyle, Kununurra |
Lake Argyle Swim 2017 |
The first of what will be an annual swimming event – the inaugural Lake Argyle Swim will take place on 6 May this year. Swim solo or in teams of two or four to complete the 10km or 20km races. |
11-13 May 2017 |
Broome |
Staircase to the Moon |
See March Staircase to the Moon for more information on this event that takes place monthly from March to October.May 2017 dates:11 May 17.5612 May 18.3913 May 19.23 |
12-14 May 2017 |
Broome |
Shinju Matsuri |
Japanese for ‘Festival of the Pearl’, Shinju Matsuri is a cultural festival that brightens up Broome. Like the town, Shinju Matsuri combines Aboriginal, Japanese, Chinese, Malay, Koepanger, Filipino and European cultures that were brought together during the height of the pearling industry. The festival begins with the awakening of Sammy the Dragon and includes art exhibitions, food events and a floating lantern matsuri. |
20 May 2017 |
Port Hedland |
Port Hedland Horse Racing |
Running annually since 1902, the Port Hedland Races never fail to entertain, as race-goers flock from miles around to enjoy the festivities. |
20-21 May 2017 |
Broome |
Cable Beach Polo |
This annual polo tournament is Australia’s original of its kind. It’s free to watch from the beach, or you can buy tickets to the VIP tent where you can dress up, sip champagne and nibble on refreshments as you take in the games. |
19-28 May 2017 |
Ord Valley, Kununurra |
Ord Valley Muster |
The biggest annual event in Kununurra. Each year attracts people from across Australia with 10 days of events. The events are still under wraps this year, but expect to see celebrity chefs, tours of surrounding areas, comedians, markets and rodeos. |
27 May 2017 |
Ord Valley, Kununurra |
Kimberley Moon |
The main event of the Ord Valley Muster. This year, the event is headlined by Jimmy Barnes along with Daryl Braithwaite and The McClymonts. If you’re looking to go all out, upgrade to the Corporate Circle for a black tie function before the show – a chance to show off your Argyle diamonds! |
21-25 May 2017 |
Ord Valley, Kununurra |
The Gibb Challenge |
Another event tied in to the Ord Valley Muster! Teams of 2-6 cycle the entire Gibb River Road to raise money for the Royal Flying Doctor Service. If you can handle the 660 kilometres of bumpy dirt road, sign up and see the Kimberley from a different angle. If not, cheer them along as they ride from Derby to El Questro. |
10-12 June 2017 |
Broome |
Staircase to the Moon |
See March Staircase to the Moon for more information on this event that takes place monthly from March to October.June 2017 dates:10 June 18.0711 June 18.5512 June 19.44 |
1 July 2017 |
Derby |
2017 XXXX Gold Derby Cup |
Bring along your best tips as WA’s top racehorses run for a chance at the gold. If you’re not a big gambler, there are plenty of food and beer stalls to keep you occupied. You can also partake in a game of two-up after the races end. |
10-12 July 2017 |
Broome |
Staircase to the Moon |
See March Staircase to the Moon for more information on this event that takes place monthly from March to October.July 2017 dates:10 July 18.3111 July 19.2212 July 20.14 |
14-15 July 2017 |
Kununurra |
Kununurra Agricultural Show |
Much more than a taste of the outback culture, the Kununurra Agricultural Show is a fun-filled weekend for all the family. With equestrian and novelty fun events. Details are still to be announced for 2017, but expect arts & crafts, food stalls, stunt shows, cookery lessons, three-legged races, egg n spoon races, dancers and more! |
22 July 2017 |
Derby |
West Kimberley Turf Club Mad Hatters Race Day |
Derby’s number one social event – bring along friends and family and dress to impress – the most creative hat wins a prize! |
8-10 August 2017 |
Broome |
Staircase to the Moon |
See March Staircase to the Moon for more information on this event that takes place monthly from March to October.August 2017 dates:8 August 18.109 August 19.3610 August 20.03 |
19 August 2017 |
Broome |
Broome Cup |
The Broome Racing Carnival runs from June until August and culminates with the Broome Cup. The racetrack is located at Gantheaume Point – a uniquely Broome location with red pindan and a pearl shell finish line. Mingle with locals, blow-ins and a few celebrities who fly in for the event. This is always the biggest weekend in town, so be sure to book ahead! |
7-9 September 2017 |
Broome |
Staircase to the Moon |
See March Staircase to the Moon for more information on this event that takes place monthly from March to October.September 2017 dates:7 September 18.438 September 19.389 September 20.35 |
6-8 October 2017 |
Broome |
Staircase to the Moon |
See March Staircase to the Moon for more information on this event that takes place monthly from March to October.October 2017 dates:6 October 18.247 October 19.238 October 20.23 |
8-10 September 2017 |
Newman |
2017 Outback Fusion Festival |
The Newman Outback Fusion Festival is a celebration of the cultural diversity in the Pilbara region. The full program of events won’t be released until August, but expect events celebrating the diverse art, culture, food, music and dance of the area. |
November 2017 (Dates TBC) |
Broome |
Broome Mango Festival |
Usually taking place at the end of November each year, the Broome Mango Festival is a celebration of the region’s lush Mango growing prowess. With food, drink and entertainment events spread across the town, there is something for everyone!
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