Goroka Show
Papua New Guinea's oldest tribal culture festival, where hundreds of tribes perform in full ceremonial dress. It is one of the most striking folk festivals in the world.
The Goroka Show began in 1957. It was first organized by Australian patrol officers as a way to channel the Highlands tribes' rivalries into song and dance instead of conflict. Today it is held each year in mid-September at the National Sports Institute grounds, with around a hundred tribes and several thousand performers taking part. Performers paint their bodies, wear birds-of-paradise plumes and shell ornaments, and dance around the arena in groups known as “sing-sing.” Foreign visitors can buy tickets that include access to a backstage photography area. These tickets are pricier, and prices are announced each year. Arriving early in the morning lets you photograph the makeup and preparations. Accommodation is extremely tight during the festival, so book at least six months ahead. Where possible, arrange transport and security through a local hotel or a tour group.
Opening hours
Daytime during festival periods
Nearby sights
- J.K. McCarthy Museum
- Goroka Market
- Raun Raun Theatre
- Highlands Coffee Plantations
- Mount Gahavisuka Provincial Park
- Asaro Mudmen Village
- Daulo Pass