
July is the best month to visit Darwin and the Top End as the weather is perfect! And it just so happens that Territory day on the 1st July is one of the most fun (yet sometimes controversial) days for the Northern Territory. It’s cracker night for the NT! Are you ready for Territory Day 2025?
It all began with the Territory becoming self-governing on the 1st of July 1978. Moving away from being administered by the federal government. To mark the occasion it is celebrated with fireworks. And I mean LOTS of fireworks haha! Both massive organised displays at community events right through to the streets, beaches and backyards. It is an amazing night to experience and not for the faint hearted!
What is the History of Territory Day?
Territory Day in the Northern Territory, Australia, is like our birthday bash. Back in the day, before July 1, 1978, the Northern Territory was under the federal government’s wing. On this day we got our self-governance! Now, every July 1st, it’s all about celebrating with fireworks, community events, and the joy of locals being able to buy and use their own fireworks. It’s not just a history thing; it’s a big, lively, and proud day for everyone up here in the Northern Territory!
What Happens on Territory Day?
Territory Day comes around each year with the much anticipated joy of being able to legally purchase and let off fireworks for one day! People froth at the thought of buying big bangers to let off on the night. For weeks in advance local shops become covered in advertising banners of where to buy your fireworks. Fusion Fireworks pamphlets arrive in your mailbox with a massive selection to choose from. Men and children dream of the massive boxes of crackers they are going to purchase. Wives roll their eyes and try to set a budget and dog owners head to the vets to purchase sedatives.
Then the day arrives. For some, 9am can’t roll around fast enough! On the 1st July from 9am to 9pm you can legally purchase fireworks from the designated shops. It is the rule that they can only be denoted between 6pm and 11pm. But within minutes of the clock ticking over to 9am crackers can be heard from those you can not wait until dusk. They go on well after midnight too.
Be prepared it goes off and has been likened to a war zone. Fireworks are let off in the streets as cars navigate through. Neighbours and strangers bond over this crazy night! It’s a site to see and experience. It’s total madness yet so damn fun! Safety needs to always be in the forefront of everyone’s mind and of course to be respectful of those who aren’t fans of cracker night. Always check the area is safe and if staying in a caravan park check rules before blasting off!
Crackers at Dundee Beach
You can’t buy crackers out at Dundee so if you’re planning to stock up for the night your last chance is at Berry Springs or anywhere in Darwin. Fireworks are NOT permitted to be let off in the Dundee Beach Bush Camp as they pose a bushfire risk and for the comfort of other guests. Your best bet is to head down the beach and have fun with locals and travellers alike. Please remember to pick up your exploded crackers- so take a head torch and a bin bag for easy clean up. Of course, be safe!
Community Events for Territory Day 2025
Darwin has many community events to attend if you would like to watch rather than buy crackers. The Mindil Beach Markets has the biggest and most magnificent display set over the ocean. You can also view a community fireworks display from Dundee Beach down near the Dundee Beach Tavern and local boat ramp.

What Time Do Fireworks Stop on Territory Day?
Ok you need to be prepared for this… they don’t stop. Official time for denoting crackers is 6-11pm on the 1st July only. But they start being let off a few weeks before (last year’s leftovers) and it continues a few weeks after. Things do quieten down after midnight, but don’t get your knickers in a knot if they don’t. Luckily it’s pretty quiet out here at Dundee and at the Bush Camp you get a break from the crowds. You may hear some being let off in the distance.
NT Cracker Night- You Either Love It Or Hate It
Cracker night can be quite controversial with some people not enjoying the festivities. Each year some in the community called for the sale of crackers to be banned and only organised community events to be held like down south. They feel it’s a safety issue and don’t like being inconvenienced by the crackers being let off in the streets. Dogs, wildlife and other pets are also affected and have a hard night. Many need to be sedated and kept inside with the tv or radio on to help block the noise. There is also a risk of small fires being started which keep the firies busy at night.
It would be such a shame to see a day like this go, the NT is not like the other states. There is still a sense of freedom. Still the opportunity for your own judgement. This has been lost in other areas of Australia.
For us we love it! When we moved here we couldn’t believe this night existed! Our boys (and my husbands) eyes lit up and each year it’s a great celebration of living in the Territory. We are proud Territorians and love the traditions that come with it. Of course safety and respect are needed. But I’m sure you’ll love it!

Ready To Go Off With A Bang?
Territory Day is hands down the perfect occasion to light up the sky with a bang! There are plenty of awesome spots to catch breathtaking fireworks displays or even set off your own. Just remember to stick to safety recommendations and the rules – it’s crucial to keep yourself, your family, and everyone around you safe. Fireworks might be spectacular, but they can also lead to serious burns and injuries. So, let’s keep the vibes chill, take care of ourselves, and watch out for our mates. Safety first, celebration second!
Happy Territory Day 2025!