AU Ongoing

Darwin International Laksa Festival

Name: Darwin International Laksa Festival
Start: 2026-10-01
End: 2026-10-31
Location: Darwin

The Darwin International Laksa Festival is an annual month-long culinary celebration held every October in Darwin, Northern Territory. The event highlights the region's appreciation for the spicy South-East Asian noodle soup, featuring traditional recipes and creative laksa-inspired dishes at over 100 local restaurants and cafes.

Date: Oct 1-31, 2026
Location: Darwin
Status: Ongoing

+ Add ICS

Event summary

Highlights

Golden Bowl trophy for the best overall laksa
$15,000 total competition prize pool
Participation from 118 local venues across Darwin
Creative 'laksa-inspired' dishes including desserts and drinks

Now in its eighth year, the 2026 festival features 118 participating venues across the Top End city. While traditional laksa is the primary draw, the event includes a popular competition for dishes and drinks 'inspired by' laksa. This category has produced unconventional offerings such as laksa-flavored cheesecake, bánh mì, pavlovas, and even deep-fried ice cream or coffee infused with the soup's signature spicy and umami flavors.

Throughout October, secret judges visit the various establishments to evaluate entries across five categories. A total prize pool of $15,000 is available for winning participants. Local residents and visitors are encouraged to participate by traveling to different venues, sampling the limited-time menu items, and casting their votes for their favorite creations.

The festival concludes with a grand finale event at the end of the month. During this closing celebration, the most prestigious award, the Golden Bowl trophy, is presented to the vendor judged to have the best overall laksa in the territory.

Practical details

Before attending

Check the sources below for current opening times, admission prices and registration requirements. A date range does not mean the event runs continuously or that admission is free.