The multi-cultural melting pot that is Broome is an amazing place to visit at any time of the year, but it is during the annual Shinju Matsuri, or Festival of the Pearl, that the town truly shines its brightest.
The event started as a grass-roots initiative with quirky gatherings like Pets in the Park, that are still included in the program today. Over the years, as the momentum grew, it has evolved into an incredible celebration of everything the town represents – the diverse food and beverage offerings, rich local culture and entertainment, and of course a showcase of the world’s most valuable pearls, grown right here in Broome.
Choose Your Adventure
Dive into the eclectic mix of activities on offer, with something to suit everyone from the family-friendly Float Parade to a showcase of Broome’s cultural tapestry at the Carnival of Nations performance display.
A fan favourite is the Floating Lantern Matsuri, a beautiful community event held at Gantheaume Beach. As the sun begins to set, write your wishes for the future, words of affirmation or notes of love on your special lantern, then wade into the warm Indian Ocean waters and send your lantern towards the sunset. There is an almost spiritual vibe as hundreds of floating lanterns join in a harmonious voyage out to sea (and don’t worry, the event team will make sure these are all collected by boat so that there is no effect on the natural ecosystem).
Exciting news for the Sunset Long Table Dinner
Another must-do in the calendar is the festival’s premier dining event, the Sunset Long Table Dinner. Each year a celebrity chef is hand-picked to create a bespoke menu, of course featuring pearl meat unique to the region.
This year’s Sunset Long Table Dinner is particularly special as it will bring together not one, but two iconic talents! We’re keeping their names under wraps… for now… stay tuned for a big announcement very soon!
One is a much-loved celebrity food personality whose honest, heartwarming approach to cooking made her a household name on one of Australia’s most iconic food shows. She’s since written bestselling cookbooks, appeared regularly on TV and radio and continues to inspire food lovers across the country. At this year’s Sunset Long Table Dinner, she’ll be curating a delicious menu served right on the sands of Cable Beach.
The other? A powerful local voice whose journey from small-town Broome to the national spotlight has been nothing short of inspiring. After capturing hearts across Australia on a hit singing competition, she returns home to perform live at both the Sunset Long Table Dinner and the Festival Finale. Expect soul, strength and a whole lot of magic.
This is one of those only-in-Broome nights that you’ll talk about for years.
Sand ‘n Sounds Returns! 🎶🌅
Back by popular demand for its 2nd year, Sand ‘n Sounds hits Cable Beach on Friday 5 September for an evening of sun, sand and sounds you won’t forget.
Settle in as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean and enjoy a delicious canapé menu crafted with seasonal produce and Broome flair. With a drink on arrival and a DJ line-up bringing the beats, you’ll be dancing under the stars before you know it.
Dress Code: Cool & Classy beach attire – shoes optional, fun guaranteed!
Join the fun!
Don’t miss this 16-day celebration of the best of Broome, head to the event website to check out all of the incredible events on offer and start planning your trip!
Dates: 23 August – 7 September
Festival events: Download the guide to explore everything Shinju Matsuri has to offer https://www.shinjumatsuri.com.au/events/
