25th Annual Hot 100 Australia Day Ute Run🚙
Proudly raising funds for Variety – the Children’s Charity NT
What are you doing for Australia Day?
Hot 100 is bringing back one of the Territory’s most iconic traditions — and in 2026, it’s bigger than ever.
The Hot 100 Australia Day Ute Run returns for its 25th year, and we want you right there with us. Join Hot 100 and thousands of Territorians as we roll out an epic parade of utes, flags, costumes and good vibes, cruising from Hidden Valley Raceway to the ultimate Australia Day celebration at Noonamah Tavern & Rodeo.
This legendary event is proudly delivered by Hot 100, with all proceeds going to Variety – the Children’s Charity NT, helping support local kids facing sickness, disadvantage or living with disability.
Registration & Merchandise
🚙 Ute Registration – $30 per ute
• Includes up to 5 people per ute
• All proceeds go to supporting NT kids through Variety
👕 Merchandise Bundle – $60
Includes:
• Event singlet
• Stubby cooler
• Sticker pack
(Bundle includes General Ute Admission)
Tickets and merchandise are non-refundable but can be transferred to another ute or participant if needed.
👉 Register by 15 January to go in the draw to win one of five exclusive starting grid spots at Hidden Valley Raceway.
Event Timeline
6:00am – Hidden Valley TOP Gates open (vehicles proceed to next gate)
7:00am – Australia Day Official Gates open
• Access to sheds, food and drinks
• Please follow directions from parking marshals
9:00am – Welcome, prize announcements & police safety briefing
9:30am – Official flag-off from Hidden Valley
• Parade through Darwin’s Northern Suburbs, Palmerston and rural areas
10:30am – Arrival at Noonamah Tavern
🎉 Official After Party – Noonamah Tavern
Once we roll in, the party kicks off with:
• Live music
• Prize announcements
• Food and drinks
• After-party games
• A bloody great Australia Day with your mates
The Hot 100 Experience
The first utes through the gate will line up with Hot 100, our sponsors and the Variety Bash Cars to create the official 100-vehicle starting grid.
You’ll:
• Line up on the official grid at Hidden Valley
• Roll out with Hot 100 and our partners
• Enjoy green lights all the way in a police-escorted convoy to Noonamah
Decorate your ute, dress up, wave to the crowds and soak up a truly Territory-style celebration.
About This Rippa Event
The Hot 100 Australia Day Ute Run is a moving street parade that entertains thousands of spectators as it winds through Darwin, Palmerston and surrounding rural areas, finishing with a massive community celebration.
Everyone’s encouraged to:
• Go all-out with decorations
• Dress up your ute — and yourself
• Embrace the fun and community spirit
🏆 Prizes awarded for:
• Best Themed Ute
• Best Individual Costume
(Flags available from National Flags – 0418 835 644)
Food, Music & After Party Fun
Food and drinks available for purchase at:
• Hidden Valley Raceway
• Noonamah Tavern
(No BYO alcohol)
At Noonamah Tavern:
• Live music
• Prize presentations
• Lunch, cold drinks and great vibes
• Check out all the incredible utes on display
• Pie-eating competition
Important Reminders
• Utes must be roadworthy and registered
• Please organise a Sober Bob or plan to camp at Noonamah
• Let’s keep this a safe, inclusive and family-friendly event
❤️ Supporting NT Kids
Hot 100 is proud to raise funds for Variety – the Children’s Charity NT, helping local kids get the support they need.
If you’d like to make an additional donation or have questions about the charity, contact Variety NT on 08 8981 2544 or email
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Thanks for supporting this long-running Hot 100 tradition and an incredible local cause.
Also check out other Nonprofit events in Darwin, Music events in Darwin, Kids events & activities in Darwin.
