Shinju Matsuri 2023 will come alive with an even bigger & better event program than ever before. Celebrating the heritage & history of Broome via a series of gourmet dining experiences by WA’s top chefs, cultural tours, art exhibitions & performances by local & visiting performing artists of all ages.
Thur 24th August
5pm | Goolarri Amphitheatre | $40
This award-winning, multi-arts performance is not to be missed if you’re wanting to immerse yourself in the rich history of Broome through song, stories, pictures and people. A smoking ceremony and Welcome to Country will be followed by “Nurlu”, traditional and contemporary Indigenous dance.
This will be followed by a true Broome visual feast – the official Music and Picture Show featuring a wealth of musical talent from around the region. A variety of culinary delights and cuisines will be available to purchase from Broome’s multicultural chefs to satisfy your taste buds and fill your bellies.
Fri 25th August
4.30pm | Cable Beach | Various
Cable Beach Triathlon is a multi-sport weekend, beginning with a 5km Dash for Cash and Charity Fun Run along the picturesque Cable Beach. With $5000 up for grabs the event attracts a strong field of runners.
The run is followed by a Welcome Dinner hosted by Spinfex Brewery (ticketed event).
The main event is the Cable Beach Triathlon, held over three distances and incorporating a kids fun triathlon along cable Beach. Athletes swim off Cable Beach and cycle and run around Sunset Park.
Fri 25th August
5pm | Black Stump Gallery | RSVP Essential
Join us for a beautiful Broome night celebrating Bronwen’s new works.
“I’ve travelled thousands of kilometres this year across and up and down Australia, taking in some awe inspiring country, as well as finding beauty in the bland.
The emptiness of the Nullabor Plain to the majesty of Berkeley river and everything in between has inspired this exhibition ” Cross Country “. It is to pay homage to our vast and ancient landscape , and to perhaps capture the energy which it exudes.”
RSVP Essential – info@blackstumpgallery.com.au
Exhibition 26 August – 9 September 2023
Fri 25th & Sat 26th August
From 9am | Multiple Venues | Various
In its 11th year, A Taste of Broome is set to return in August with an exciting three-day celebration of diverse cultures that promises to delight the senses and entertain the whole family. Festival goers will experience the best of Broome’s local food, culture, art, performance, music, theatre and film, with the Cultural Hub at the Goolarri Media Amphitheatre a hive of more free activities and events than ever.
Sat 26th August
4pm | Town Beach | Free
Join us at Town Beach to celebrate the official opening of Shinju Matsuri 2023.
Experience a very special Yawuru Welcome to Country & cultural performances, before we welcome a new Sammy with the traditional waking of the Dragon.
The Opening Ceremony marks the start of our 16-day program of diverse cultural, dining & art events that showcase the unique history & rich multicultural community of Broome.
Sat 26th August
5pm | Goolarri Amphitheatre | Free
Relax and unwind in the chilled-out ambiance of the Goolarri amphitheatre, where the combination of live music, delicious food, and good company will create an unforgettable vibe. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, A Taste of Broome Soiree is the perfect way to discover the richness and artistic talent that makes Broome truly special.
Sat 26th August
6pm | Spinfex Festival Hub | SOLD OUT
The Dahlia Designs Shinju Opening Ball is a modern take on the historic Shinju Ball, in a striking new venue – Shinju Matsuri Festival Hub by Spinifex Brewing Co.
Keep the festival opening ceremony celebrations going in style by a star-lit Roebuck Bay, with live music, dinner & drinks. All guests will receive a welcome drink on arrival with a light meal served.
Get ready to dance the night away on our outdoor dance floor with local faves Miss Behave & the School of Funk keeping the tunes flowing all night long.
Dress code is “Kimberley Class”, think semi-formal with a Broome twist.
Limited tickets are available, be quick!
Sat 26th August
6pm | Mangrove Hotel | $189
Introducing… Shui Takes Shinju: Leigh Power at the Mangrove Hotel.
The Mangrove Hotel Executive Chef, Florian Johnen, has invited Executive Chef at Shui, Leigh Power, and Prendiville Group Director or Food, Russell Blaikie, to join forces to host a multi-course shared menu dining under the stars.
Leigh Power has curated a speciality menu that pays homage to the pan Asian heritage of Broome celebrated annually at the Shinju Matsuri Festival.
The three chefs combined will act as your hosts for the evening, taking you on culinary journey through Asia.
4-courses: shared long table format, beverage included, live music.
Sat 26th August
6.30pm | Cable Beach | $$
Cable Beach Triathlon is a multi-sport weekend, beginning with a 5km Dash for Cash and Charity Fun Run along the picturesque Cable Beach. With $5000 up for grabs the event attracts a strong field of runners.
The run is followed by a Welcome Dinner hosted by Spinfex Brewery (ticketed event).
The main event is the Cable Beach Triathlon, held over three distances and incorporating a kids fun triathlon along cable Beach. Athletes swim off Cable Beach and cycle and run around Sunset Park.
Sat 26th August
8pm | The Roey Oasis | $20
HELLS BELLS return to Broome’s Roebuck Bay Hotel on Saturday 26th August 2023 to celebrating AC/DC on their 50 years of wine, women and song.
HELLS BELLS is WA’s longest serving AC/DC tribute band who covers both the Bon and Brian years, will be delivering your favourite accadacca songs complete with their signature sound: loud, simple, pounding riffs and grooving backbeats in a blistering 2 hour performance that will leave you Thunderstruck.
Sun 27th August
6.30am | Cable Beach | Various
The main event is the Cable Beach Triathlon, held over three distances and incorporating a kids fun triathlon along cable Beach. Athletes swim off Cable Beach and cycle and run around Sunset Park.
Sun 27th August
1pm | The Roey Oasis | Free
A fun-filled day for the whole family! With activities for kids, cold drinks and great food for the parents, you can enjoy the day outside with your loved ones. Whether it’s taking a break for a refreshing drink or simply enjoying the warm summer weather, there’s something for everyone. So bring the family, disconnect from technology and spend quality time together.
Sun 27th August
3pm | Chinatown | Free
Make sure you’re in Chinatown on Sunday 27th August, to witness the fun, creativity & captivating energy of the Float Parade.
The Shinju Matsuri Float Parade is one of the most traditional events on our program, being part of the festival since the very early days. The stunning array of floats represent the diversity of the Broome community, being created by local community groups, schools, performance groups & local businesses.
The parade route begins at the Broome Civic Centre, before making its way through the streets of Chinatown, before ending at Male Oval.
Sun 27th August
4pm | Male Oval | Free
Join in the party at the end of the Float Parade with the Mardi Gras festivities on Male Oval.
Be blown away by the variety of local talent, entertaining the masses with a vibrant evening of performance by local performance groups, schools & clubs. Food & drink is available all throughout the evening from a selection of the town’s most delicious food vans & vendors.
Stick around to catch Carnival of Nations.
Sun 27th August
6pm | Male Oval | Free
HitWA Carnival of Nations, is a much loved Shinju Matsuri event.
Join us for a celebration of diversity & culture via a series of unique immersive performances & cultural displays directly following Mardi Gras.
Grab your picnic rug & a bite to eat from the line-up of local food vans, before taking in a visual feast for all ages, paying homage to the rich & diverse cultural tapestry of Broome then & now.
Tue 29th August
4.30pm | Town Beach | $165
The Wayfarers Gourmet Experience is a unique walking tour that connects Broome’s history with a unique Broome culinary and sensory experience. Our walking tour starts at Town Beach, which next to Chinatown, is the heart and soul of historic Broome.
Your guide will take you through the significance of Town Beach and the many historical events that have taken place here. At Town Beach we’ll take refreshments at the Shinju Matsuri Festival Hub before we walk to 3 separate venues to experience 3 unique culinary experiences each including an alcoholic beverage.
The tour is 3.5 hours and walking 2.2km in total.
Wed 30th August
6pm | Short St, Chinatown | SOLD OUT
The Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures Chinatown Feast, is returning to take over the heart of Chinatown on Wednesday 30th August
The Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures Chinatown Feast is our starlit Hawker Style dining event with a Kimberley twist. Held in the heart of Chinatown Broome, with a new home in 2023 on Short St.
Tantalise your taste-buds with a selection of dishes from Broome’s finest food vendors, while roving performers & live musicians entertain you throughout the evening.
Thur 31st August
5pm | Pearlers Restaurant, Roebuck Bay Hotel | SOLD OUT
Come learn how to paint a stunning Pearl on canvas! This class is open to complete beginners and all skill levels, so everyone is welcome to join. During this one-time class, we’ll provide you with paints, paintbrushes, an easel, and canvas to create your masterpiece.
Additionally, we’ll offer your choice of drinks to get you in a relaxed, creative mood, as well as light refreshments while you work. You’ll be taught techniques and guided step-by-step by an artist, and we’ll be there to assist you throughout the process.
Thur 31st August
6pm | Napier Terrace | Free
When Shinju’s full moon rises over Chinatown on August 31, it will become connected to Chinatown’s entry statement sculpture ”Fusion; interwoven cultures”, creating a unique spectacle that only happens twice a year.
The Shire of Broome and Shinju Matsuri are creating an opportunity to capture this moment directly in front of the sculpture on Napier Terrace, by closing the road for pedestrian access.
Fri 1st & Sat 2nd September
9am – 7.30pm | Broome Bowling Club | Free
Come down and watch 20 teams with some of the best bowlers in Broome, the state and inter state compete for the Shinju Matsuri Open 4’s trophy and $10,000 in prize money
Fri 1st September
4pm | Town Beach | Free
Staircase to the Moon is a natural phenomenon which occurs when a full moon rises over the exposed tidal flats of Roebuck Bay. The Staircase to the Moon happens 2 – 3 days a month between March and October.
The Town beach precinct is a great vantage spot to view the Staircase to the Moon which is a short walk from Matso’s Broome Brewery.
Staircase to the Moon Markets at Town Beach is a great spot to sample local produce, buy hand made products, a variety of international food, and enjoy the sounds of local entertainers.
Fri 1st September
6pm & 8.30pm | Sun Pictures | Various
Celebrating its 32nd year, Flickerfest, Australia’s only Academy® Award and BAFTA qualifying short film festival, and the country’s largest Australian & International short film competition, screens the best of shorts from Australia and the world, selected from 3,200 entries; ensuring the presentation of A-list short film programmes recognised amongst the best in the world.
Flickerfest screens for 10 days under the summer stars at Bondi Beach in January, with selected highlights of the most entertaining and innovative short films from Australia & around the world touring the country on a 5venue national tour from Feb – Oct 2023.
Flickerfest returns with this annual one-off chance to see the Best of International & Australian shorts officially selected for Flickerfest National Tour programme, before they continue their journey around the world.
Friday 1st September 6pm Best of Australian Shorts & 8.30pm Short Laughs Comedy
Fri 1st September
6pm | Short St Gallery | Free
Join us at the historical Short St Gallery for an Opening Night event at Broome’s longest gallery.
The exhibition celebrates the opening of our exhibition, Ngayuku Ngura – My Country by two exceptional remote desert artists, Mary Katajuku and Muna Kulyuru.
Exhibition open 10am – 3pm Mon to Fri, 10am – 2pm Sat
Fri 1st September
4.30pm | Wattle Dr, Broome | Various
Broome Speedway! Get your backside trackside for the BIGGEST racing event of the year over 2 nights! 🐉
🏁 Modlites, Productions, Modifieds, Street Stocks, Go Karts, Juniors, Jnr Quarter Midgets, Wingless Sprints, Super Sedans
Fri 1st & Sat 2nd September
7pm | Broome Civic Centre | From $55
Mutiara reflects on 100 years of the brutality and seduction of Broome’s pearling industry exploring the depths of the divers’ alien underwater world, and their survival and solidarity above the surface.
Told through intercultural dance and visual art revealing the resilience, love and strength of ancestors.
The work is a celebration of the unsung bond between First Peoples of the Kimberley and seafaring Malay peoples during a time of colonialism, racism, exploitation, slavery, and stolen children.
Sat 2nd September
6pm | The Mangrove Hotel – Balcony | $129
An authentic italian dining experience viewing the staircase to the moon from the elevated VIP balcony.
Feed Me Johnny, based on tables of two. Antipasti, Primi e Secondi, Dolce. Wine pairing inclusive.
Sat 2nd September
6pm | Cable Beach Amphitheatre | Free
The Journey Down is an animated and vibrant celebration of dance, song, projections and otherworldly sound coming together to transform an old car wreck into a travelling canvas of story and culture.
The Journey Down includes performances by Mirriwoong and Gija songmen and dancers including Chris Griffiths and Andrew Daylight, Yamatji didjeridu virtuoso Mark Atkins with leading Australian musicians Aviva Endean, Tristen Parr and Vanessa Tomlinson, interwoven with animation and video design from Sohan Ariel Hayes (Boorna Waanginy: The Trees Speak).
This powerful production will transport audiences to new worlds in a celebration of intercultural collaboration and the vibrancy of our regional communities.
Sun 3rd September
9am | Broome Bowling Club | Free
Come down and watch 20 teams with some of the best bowlers in Broome, the state and inter state compete for the Shinju Matsuri Open 4’s trophy and $10,000 in prize money
Sun 3rd September
4pm | Gantheaume Point Beach | Free + SOLD OUT
The Horizon Power Floating Lantern Matsuri is a free community event to attend, however if you would like to participate in the float we encourage you to pre purchase your lantern kit before the festival begins, as limited numbers are available.
Sun 3rd September
4.30pm | Gantheaume Point Beach | $150
Experience the spectacular Floating Lantern Matsuri in style, enjoying uninterupted sunset views from the exclusive Paspaley Floating Lantern VIP lounge.
Your VIP pass includes event entry, access to the Floating Lantern VIP lounge, floating lantern kit, open bar for the duration of the event & a special menu of Japanese canapes by Pica’s Kitchen served throughout the evening.
This experience always sells out, secure your tickets today.
Mon 4th September
6pm | Broome Civic Centre | Free
The Shinju Matsuri Arts Awards get more exciting every year with the sheer diversity of incredible talent we have here in Broome. While there is no set theme, entering artists are encouraged to find inspiration from Shinju Matsuri as well as the diverse culture, history & people of Broome.
This year’s awards & exhibition will take over the Broome Civic Centre from September 5th – 10th, 10am to 5pm daily.
Grab a drink while voting for your People’s Choice Award winner, Bar open 2.30pm – 4.30pm.
The People’s Choice Award vote will be open throughout the exhibition, with the winner being announced at the Festival Finale on Sunday 10th September at Town Beach.
To register to enter the Art Awards click here
Tue 5th September
4pm | Festival Hub | Free
Head down to our Festival hub with your furry, or not so furry, friends, for a fun afternoon celebrating our favourite family members.
Show off your furry, feathered or scaled friend as you strut your stuff together down the DevelopmentWA Pets in the Park catwalk. No entry forms required, just come along and register your pet on the day. Awesome prizes to be won for best in show, best dressed & most unusual pet.
Tue 5th September
4.30pm | Town Beach | $165
The Wayfarers Gourmet Experience is a unique walking tour that connects Broome’s history with a unique Broome culinary and sensory experience. Our walking tour starts at Town Beach, which next to Chinatown, is the heart and soul of historic Broome.
Your guide will take you through the significance of Town Beach and the many historical events that have taken place here. At Town Beach we’ll take refreshments at the Shinju Matsuri Festival Hub before we walk to 3 separate venues to experience 3 unique culinary experiences each including an alcoholic beverage.
The tour is 3.5 hours and walking 2.2km in total.
Wed 6th September
10am | Broome Civic Centre | Free
Our annual Shinju Matsuri Senior Citizen’s Morning Tea is back for another year. Come along to the Broome Civic Centre to reconnect with old friends & meet some new ones, while enjoying a morning tea spread of tea, coffee, scones & jams. With some light local entertainment & a chance to check out the Shinju Matsuri Art Awards Exhibition.
Wed 6th Sept & Thur 7th Sept
From 12 noon | Matso’s Broome Brewery | 7pm Comedy RSVP Free
In celebrating our annual Shinju Matsuri festival, Matso’s Brewery team and Boom Town entertainment will be throwing a festival of bento boxes and our brewery beers, paired with live entertainment from local musicians and comedians.
This year we’re doing things a little differently!
We’re hosting a two-day event for you. Not only will we be showcasing opportunity to try different bento boxes cooked by our chefs, we also have an all-star comedian Kel Balnaves (Winner – Adelaide Fringe Best Comedy Weekly Award 2021) coming all the way from SA.
Kel will perform his award-winning set with local comedians and keep you laughing all night! RSVP required for comedy shows due to limited space on both nights.
Thur 7th September
4pm | Pearl Luggers | $80
The Pearl Meat Cook Off returns to Pearl Luggers in 2023 as part of the Shinju Matsuri (Festival of the Pearl).
Featuring celebrity guest judge Khanh Ong!
Experience the ultimate cooking competition in Broome, with the best local chefs preparing incredible dishes of pearl meat, competing for the cook-off crown! This year’s theme is “A taste of the six seasons” with chefs creating dishes inspired by the six Yawuru seasons. All tickets include canapes by Dewa’s Mobile Kitchen and beer and wine tastings.
You don’t want to miss the live entertainment and fabulous event atmosphere.
Tickets won’t last, get yours today!
Fri 8th Sept
5pm | 1 Gill Rd, Cable Beach | Free
Anam Cara – In the Celtic tradition there is a beautiful understanding of love and friendship. The Gaelic term Anam Cara means the soul friend, this is where you can be ‘as you are’ without mask and pretension, where you are understood – you are home.
My art practice is my Anam Cara, this is my peace and my grounding. I invite you all to come and take a walk through my Studio Galleries and take a moment to let my art expression and 30-year journey with this country reach out to you.
This is a rare opportunity to view the art filled space of the Boab Moon Studio with her green walled bathroom and unique fish tanks.
Exhibition Open 10am – 4pm Daily
Fri 8th & Sat 9th September
Various | Broome Convention Centre | Various
Those cheeky Sandflies are at it again! Get ready for a wild ride of big thrills with a brand new show by WA’s premier regional youth circus.
You’ll see unbelievable unicycling stunts, death-defying acrobatics, high-flying aerial feats and much, much more.
Our cast of 80+ amazing local kids will have the whole family glued to their seats with another action packed performance with irresistible charm. Get your tickets early – our shows often sell out!
Sat 9th September
5pm | Cable Beach | SOLD OUT
Indulge in an opulent night dining under the stars at our premier dining event, the Sunset Long Table Dinner on spectacular Cable Beach.
Renowned as one of the most exclusive dining tables in WA, every year the Sunset Long Table Dinner is the most anticipated Shinju Matsuri event.
Featuring a menu curated & delivered by our 2023 headline chef Khanh Ong alongside local caterers Zookeepers by Spinifex Brewing Co. The exciting menu, inspired by Broome’s rich cultural tapestry, will showcase local ingredients & seasonal produce from the region.
Enjoy entertainment by local & touring musicians & performers throughout the evening, before finishing the night with a dance in the sand under the Kimberley sky.
Dress Code: Cocktail or formal beach attire…be prepared to take your shoes off & feel the sand between your toes!
18+ Event with allocated seating.
Sat 9th September
8pm | The Roey Oasis | $30
DARK SIDE OF THE BROOME is a love letter from the Broome muso scene to one of rock and roll music most enduring and beloved albums of all time – Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon. “If you only go to one Shinju Matsuri event this year, this has to be it.”
An audio-visual spectacular not to be missed, the performance will include a live rendition of 1973’s Dark Side of the Moon at the iconic Roebuck Bay Hotel plus a selection of essential songs from other chart-topping Pink Floyd albums Wish You Were Here, The Wall and more.
The critically-acclaimed The Dark Side of the Moon spent an astonishing 14 years on the Billboard album charts, and to date has sold an estimated 45 million copies worldwide. It is the highest selling album of the 70s, and the fourth highest selling album of all time.
Sun 10th September
5pm | Town Beach | Free
Sat 26th August – Sunday 10th September
Welcome to the vibrant heart of the festival – the Shinju Matsuri Festival Hub by Spinifex Brewing Co.!
As the central pop-up venue for the entire 16-day extravaganza, Town Beach brims with non-stop excitement. Sponsored by Spinifex Brewing Co., the Festival Hub offers an array of activities, food options, and captivating entertainment, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all ages.
Come join us from 6am to 10pm daily, as Town Beach becomes the vibrant hub of Shinju Matsuri, where joy, culture, and celebration come alive against the picturesque backdrop of Broome’s Roebuck Bay.
Throughout the festival
9am – 4.30pm | 31 Dampier Terrace, Broome | From $990
Sunday 3rd September
2pm | 17 Gwendoline Crossing Bilingurr | $125
28 August – 8 September
10am | 9 Barker Street, Broome | $15
28 August – 8 September
11.15am | 9 Barker Street, Broome | $15
28th Aug – 9th Sept
Monday to Friday, 9am, 11am, 1pm, 3pm | Goolarri Media, Blackman St | Free (Reserve your spot)
Friday to Monday
5pm | Jones Pl, Broome | Various
Thursday Nights, Saturday & Sunday Mornings
Various times | Courthouse & Town Beach | Free
Monday to Friday
10.30am | 2/23 Dampier Terrace | $60
Throughout Shinju Matsuri
Various times | Departs Broome, Derby & Cygnet Bay | $895pp
Throughout Shinju Matsuri
Various prices | 33 Carnarvon St | Free
Throughout the festival
10am – 4pm Mon-Fri, 10am – 1pm Weekends | Sailmaker’s Shed @ the Broome Historical Museum | Various
Don’t miss the chance to get a memorable photo with Old Sammy before he retires from Shinju Matsuri. While at the museum, be sure to explore the fascinating Shinju Matsuri exhibit, where you can learn about the festival’s origins and enjoy a vast collection of captivating Shinju photographs.
Throughout the festival
WA Museum in a Container
31 Aug & 2 Sep
8am – 2pm 31 Aug, 3pm- 9pm 2 Sep | Outside Sailmakers Shed | FREE
Visit our custom-made mobile museum to play digital games, take a peek into our displays of invertebrate specimens, or ‘see’ sound with our live science demonstrations. All activities are free and provided by the Western Australian Museum.
Shinju Matsuri 2024 is Proudly Supported by:
