Foodie feasts and family fun in Broome: Shinju Matsuri returns this August!

While Broome (Rubibi) is an incredible part of the world whichever way you look at it, each year it really comes alive for Shinju Matsuri Festival, which just so happens to be held during a stunning time of year weather-wise in the north west town.

Japanese for ‘Festival of the Pearl’, this celebration of the region’s incredibly unique multicultural and pearling history returns in 2023 to enchant visitors from August 26-September 10.

With September traditionally marking the end of the pearl harvest season, it’s the perfect time to celebrate with Shinju Matsuri, a festival that celebrates a unique blend of food and cultures across an array of soul-enriching events. Set against dramatic backdrops of crystal-white sands, azure-blue waters and searing red cliffs in Australia’s North West – there’s nothing quite like it.

This year’s program is the biggest yet, with sunset beach dinners, gourmet food adventures, vibrant cultural performances and more, suitable for the whole family – check out a few highlights below and start planning your getaway via the Shinju Matsuri website.

Dahlia Designs Shinju Opening Ball

This modern take on the historic Shinju Ball kicks things off in an exciting new venue – the Shinju Matsuri Festival Hub by Spinifex Brewing Co. After the festival’s dreamlike opening ceremony, guests are invited to kick-on Kimberley-style for a night under the Roebuck Bay stars with dinner, drinks and live music on the outdoor dancefloor.

HFSA Chinatown Feast

Held in the beating heart of Broome’s Chinatown, this year’s feast will be a Hawker-style dining event under the stars at a new home on Short Street. Enjoy dishes from Broome’s finest food vendors, with roving performers and live musicians bringing the party atmosphere.

Jetty Gala

After debuting in 2021, the Jetty Gala has already become one of Shinju Matsuri’s most popular cocktail events set amongst the magnificent mangroves and waters of Roebuck Bay. This year it takes on even more significance, being hosted on the brand-new Town Beach Jetty for a night of Kimberley-inspired canapes and beverages, including beers from Spinifex Brewing Co. and Western Australian wines and cocktails. Watch the sunset as you dance the night away under the stars with live music from some stellar local musicians.

Paspaley Floating Lantern VIP

One of Shinju Matsuri’s most visually stunning events, Gantheaume Point comes alive with hundreds of floating lanterns sent out to sea in a moving ceremony. It’s free to attend, but you can pre-purchase a lantern kit before the festival begins to take part, or grab tickets to the VIP Lounge at Gantheaume Beach for the best sunset views in the house.

Head to the Shinju Matsuri website to start planning your Festival of the Pearl experience today.