A community- based event that began in 1997 with a ‘beanie party’, organised by Adi Dunlop.

In the early years, the festival was run by a group of friends on a volunteer basis. The core group has slowly grown into a committed band of ‘beanie-ologists’. We know our beanies! The festival was organised to sell beanies crocheted by Aboriginal women in remote communities. It has grown into a fun event where Aboriginal and non- Aboriginal artists share their culture and exhibit together.

The festival is unique because of the incredible amount of community participation and our unique ties with local Aboriginal organisations. The festival’s aims have always been to develop Aboriginal women’s textiles, promote womens’ culture and the beanie as a regional art form, as well as promote handmade textile arts.

With competition entries from all over Australia and a growing number of overseas entries, it is a great way to participate, meet new friends, and enjoy a festival that is firmly on many peoples calendar of events. With over 5,000 head-warmers up for grabs, you have to be quick to purchase a couple of unique beanies for yourself.

With opening celebrations, that include a line-up of entertainment, parade of winning beanies, followed by workshop and some great camaraderie, the ‘Alice Springs Beanie Festival’ is a permanent feature on many peoples calendar and a must see for visitors to Alice.

Colours of the Country
For those unable to make it to Alice Springs, the Alice Springs Beanie Festival is now touring a travelling exhibition ‘Colours of the Country’ in partnership with ArtBack and celebrating 10 years of the Beanie Festival. See the website for touring destinations and dates that include Ararat, Booragul (Lake Macquarie), Texas (Queensland), Windsor, La Trobe University, Bega, Cowra, Wagga, Mount Gambier, and Katherine.