NAIDOC Week 2024: Must-see cultural events across Australia

NAIDOC Week is an annual observance celebrating and recognising the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Held across Australia from the first Sunday of July each year, NAIDOC Week celebrations give every Australian an opportunity to learn about First Nations cultures and histories and participate in celebrations of the oldest, continuous living cultures on earth.

NAIDOC Week 2024 will be held from Sunday 7 July to Sunday 14 July. This year’s theme – Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud – honours the enduring strength and vitality of First Nations cultures. We’ve put together a list of NAIDOC activities and events happening near you this year.

NSW | VIC | QLD | TAS | WA | SA | NT | ACT

NAIDOC Week events in NSW

Inner City NAIDOC Family Fun Day
Gadigal (Eveleigh)
11 July

Head to Carriageworks in Eveleigh to experience NAIDOC Family Fun Day – a day of celebration, commemoration and protest. Witness spellbinding performances from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dancers, singers, musicians and bands. Visit the Elders Tent, feast on a barbecue lunch, wander market stalls and take part in Jarjum activities.

The Inner City NAIDOC Family Fun Day is coordinated by the Eora NAIDOC Community Group, which has held annual NAIDOC events since 2019. The Group is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Group organised by an Aboriginal Volunteer Committee from Inner Sydney.

NAIDOC in the City
Gadigal (Sydney)
10 July

Town Hall in Sydney will host NAIDOC in the City, a free celebration of food, song, art, dance and stories in the heart of the city. Visitors can wander the Gadigal Markets during the day to buy authentic art, craft and produce from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses. The markets will run from 11am to 4pm.

In the evening, Town Hall will hold an epic evening program of events from 6pm to 9.30pm (with doors opening at 5pm), including amazing live acts and performances from the likes of Isaac Compton and Loren Ryan. Admission is free for the whole day, however tickets are required for the evening program.

NAIDOC March & Family Fun Day
Kamilaroi (Tamworth)
12 July

To celebrate NAIDOC Week 2024, Tamworth in regional NSW is putting on some fantastic community events. Gather at 9.30am for the NAIDOC March, which will officially kick off at 10 am and head through town. It’s a great opportunity to get out among the community with family and friends.

The march finishes at Bicentennial Park, where the Family Fun Day will kick off. There will be plenty of market stalls selling handmade wares and food as well as information booths where you can chat with locals. Live performances are also on the cards.

Bush Food Planting Day
Gadigal (St Peters)
13 July

Attend a free guided tour of Sydney City Farm with educators from Koori Kinnections for Bush Food Planting Day this NAIDOC Week. Sydney City Farm is an urban agriculture and sustainable food production hub in the inner-city suburb of St Peters.

Those joining the tour will not only develop an understanding of the living history of Aboriginal cultural connection to the landscape but also gain insight into bush foods suitable for growing in the area. You’ll also get the opportunity to plant bush foods at the farm and even pot your own to take home. Tours are available across three time slots on the day; 12pm, 1pm and 2pm.

Mogo Big Day Out
Yuin (Mogo)
13 July

The Mogo Big Day Out is a family-friendly and free event sprawled across the quaint South Coast town’s eponymous communal oval. Organised by the Boomerang Meeting Place Inc., this is an event the whole community will enjoy while celebrating and honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders.

Big Day Out will run from 10am to 4pm and host a variety of things to do and see throughout the day. While the program is still yet to be announced, the event is known to put on some truly fantastic events.

Indigenous Round
Awabakal (Lake Macquarie)
5–7 July

Football lovers – this one is for you! Held by Football NSW during NAIDOC Week, the Indigenous Round consists of a weekend of competitions aimed to promote and celebrate First Nations culture and football participants.

After the Indigenous Round, the third annual NAIDOC Cup will take place from 10–12 July in Lake Macquarie. Following two successful years of First Nations representation, the Cup is back again this year, with Football NSW aiming for a third consecutive title.

Central Coast NAIDOC Community Day
Darkinjung (Wyong)
9 July

Come together on the NSW Central Coast to celebrate NAIDOC Week at the 2024 Central Coast NAIDOC Community Day. Hosted by Nunyara Aboriginal Health and the Central Coast Local Health District, the event is a great opportunity to connect and support local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Head down to the Wyong Race Club & Function Centre at 10 am for a fun-filled day out. There will be rides, over 60 community, health and Indigenous-owned business stalls, live entertainment, workshops, health screenings and a free lunch. What more could you want?

National Indigenous Art Fair
Gadigal (Sydney)
29–30 June

The National Indigenous Art Fair is coming to the Overseas Passenger Terminal in Circular Quay to showcase creations from First Nations artists, designers and makers. It may be before the official start of NAIDOC Week, but it’s a fantastic way to support First Nations artists.

Offering an opportunity to ethically purchase artworks, textiles, jewellery and ceramics, the marketplace directly supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists from remote community-owned art centres. As well as browsing and buying art, you can taste and learn about native bush food and join Indigenous weaving circles and other workshops.

NAIDOC Week events in Victoria

South East NOW
Gunaikurnai (Gippsland)
21 June – 27 July

The East Gippsland Art Gallery will host South East NOW as part of NAIDOC Week 2024, a free exhibition showcasing First Nations artists and their art. This year, works by Alice Ann Pepper, Chris Mongta, Patricia Pittman, Ray Thomas and more will be on display.

As well as admiring art, visitors can participate in a variety of workshops and tours, as well as enjoy panel talks by exhibiting artists Bradley Brown and Sarah Brown. There will also be a special opening night event on 21 June at 5.30pm.

Walk On Country
Boonwurrung (Mount Martha)
7 July

Join Lionel Lauch and Hudson Fraser from Living Culture for Walk On Country, a guided walk through The Briars Wildlife Sanctuary in Mount Martha on the Mornington Peninsula. Along the way, you’ll learn about Indigenous culture and the Country you walk upon.

Afterwards, you’re invited to join Lionel in the Chechingurk Birdhide for a special group meditation led by Yidaki (Didgeridoo), however, spots are limited. Tickets are on sale now, priced between $39 and $50.

BLAKtivism. Build Blak Power. Fight for Change​.
Naarm (Melbourne)
11 July

If you’re looking to expand your knowledge this NAIDOC Week, the BLAKtivism. Build Blak Power. Fight for Change​. panel talk at the narrm ngarrgu Library is for you. Focusing on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander activism, the talk promises to be both informative and inspiring.

bardi jawi man and writer Bebe Oliver will be joined on the panel by Laniyuk, Apryl Day and Iluka Sax-Williams. What’s more, attendees will also be treated to a live performance from Kamarra Bell-Wykes and Carly Sheppard’s A Daylight Connection.

Swan Hill Koorioke
Wemba Wemba (Swan Hill)
12 July

Unleash your inner pop star at Swan Hill Koorioke, held at the Federal Hotel in the regional town of Swan Hill. Whether you’re keen to brave the stage and get behind the mic or simply sing along in the crowd, karaoke is always a good time.

At the end of the night, the king and queen of karaoke will be crowned, so get those vocal chords warm! There will also be drinks and finger food available, plus a range of door prizes. Entry is just $10, with doors opening at 6pm.

Kungari Comedy
Naarm (Melbourne)
11 July

Lovers of a good laugh should definitely add Kungari Comedy to their NAIDOC Week to-do list. As part of Melbourne Fringe, the line-up will feature some of Australia’s most iconic and emerging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander comics, including Aden Hitchins, Kalah Lovegrove and Ben Moodie.

Held at the Melbourne Fringe Common Rooms in the city’s Trades Hall building, tickets are priced between $10 and $30. Get there for doors at 6 pm and stay for koorioke afterwards!

NAIDOC Week events in Queensland

Cairns Indigenous Art Fair
Gimuy (Cairns)
25—28 July

Although it falls outside of the official NAIDOC Week dates, the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) is definitely still worth a visit. One of the biggest celebrations of Indigenous art across the country, CIAF is a curated, ethical marketplace showcasing authentic and original artwork by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists.

CIAF acts as a platform for cultural exchange and economic opportunity for Queensland Indigenous artists. This year, as well as an amazing collection of original artworks, attendees are encouraged to check out other CIAF events. Think an opening night party, family activities, fashion show and symposium.

Aboriginal Culture Show
Bundjalung (Gold Coast)
Ongoing

At the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary on the Gold Coast, you can attend an Aboriginal Culture Show any time of the year. However, make it special in 2024 by visiting during NAIDOC Week.

The Yugambeh Aboriginal Dance Group will give you an insight into local First Nations culture by sharing ancient knowledge through traditional songs, stories and dance. Clapsticks, digeridoo and melodic vocals will fill your ears as stories and dancing aim to educate all.

Brisbane NAIDOC Ball
Meeanjin (Brisbane)
27 July

Brisbane’s Royal Convention Centre will fill up with guests for the Brisbane NAIDOC Ball as part of NAIDOC Week this year. Expect dancing, live performances and awards recognising the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community of South-East Queensland.

It’s a night of celebration, recognition and entertainment, bringing people together to celebrate local communities. Tickets are priced at $200 and include a three-course meal, a five-hour drinks package and a night full of live entertainment and fun.

Traditional Twining Weaving Workshop
Barunggam (Toowoomba)
12 July

Learn the art of traditional twining weaving at this special workshop hosted by First Nations weaver and Wiradjuri woman Aunty Barb Walker at the Queensland Museum Cobb + Co in Toowoomba. Aunty Barb will teach you how to make your very own flat tray or dilly bag to take home.

All materials will be supplied for each person, as well as a delicious Ploughman’s Platter from Cobb’s Coffee Shop and unlimited (alcohol-free) drinks. Secure your place now for just $95 per person.

NAIDOC Week events in Tasmania

Winter Film Fest
Nipaluna (Hobart)
4 July

Hobart’s Rosny Library is holding the Winter Film Fest NAIDOC Week Special for a screening of the 2021 documentary Wash My Soul in the River’s Flow. The award-winning cinematic masterpiece is directed by Philippa Bateman.

Wash My Soul in the River’s Flow is a reinvention of the 2004 concert Kura Tungar-Songs from the River performed by Archie Roach and Ruby Hunter. The screening will begin at 10.30am, with tea, coffee and snacks provided.

Youth Speak Out
Tommeginne (Devonport)
Until 31 July

Reconciliation Tasmania has partnered up with Libraries Tasmania to bring Youth Speak Out to the Tasmanian public in a travelling exhibition. Featuring artworks by Tasmanian students from year five to year 12, the event is all about celebrating the next generation’s views on Aboriginal affairs.

Around 14 selected pieces will be travelling to Devonport from Launceston during NAIDOC Week for display. The exhibition will run from early July through to the end of the month, giving locals and visitors alike the opportunity to witness and celebrate youth knowledge and creativity.

kipli takara tour
piyura kitina (Risdon Cove)
Ongoing

Celebrate NAIDOC Week by koining a kipli takara piyura kitina-ta (bush foods walk at Risdon Cove) hosted by palawa kipli, a sustainable Aboriginal food company just outside of Hobart. The tour shows guests how Indigenous communities use traditional native plants in food.

It also allows the opportunity to hear from palawa directly about their connection to land and food resources as part of culture and history. After the 90-minute experience, guests can indulge in a tasting of native flavours by palawa kipli.

NAIDOC Week events in Western Australia

A Yarn with Ernie Dingo
Boorloo (Perth)
6 July

Sit down for A Yarn with Ernie Dingo, the much-loved Indigenous Australian actor, television presenter and comedian. In a one-off event, Ernie will share personal stories from his life, as well as host an exclusive Q&A with one lucky audience.

Held at St Stephen’s School Theatre in the Perth suburb of Duncraig, don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn about this 80s Aussie TV star. Tickets are on sale now, priced at just $18 per person ( and $14 for concession card holders).

Kullarri NAIDOC Festival
Rubibi (Broome)
From 21 June

If you’re around Broome during NAIDOC Week, put the Kullarri NAIDOC Festival on your to-do list. The festival is jam-packed with things to do to celebrate NAIDOC Week and its theme – Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud.

Attendees can look forward to everything from art exhibitions and live entertainment to sporting events and dance parties, plus so much more! Kullarri invites the entire community out to celebrate and contemplate what NAIDOC Week represents to Broome and Australia.

Mowanjum Festival
Nyikina (Derby)
5 July

Embrace the rich culture of the Ngarinyin, Woddordda and Wunambal peoples during the 25th anniversary of the Mowanjum Festival this July. The event is held in Derby, located along one of Australia’s best road trip wonders, the Gibb River Road.

Festival-goers can participate in an afternoon of amazing workshops and an open art gallery. In the evening, enjoy Junba under the stars, a traditional song and dance that helps pass on Aboriginal knowledge and culture to future generations.

Boola Moorditj Boordiya
Boorloo (Perth)
Until 17 July

As part of NAIDOC Week 2024, Gallery25 in Perth will host the Boola Moorditj Boordiya (Many Strong Leaders) exhibition. Running from 10am to 4pm, the art display will showcase works from the ECU Collection, which features Noongar people who have shaped Noongar art.

Boola Moorditj Boordiya has been expertly curated by writer, artist and Whadjuk, Ballardong, Wilman Noongar woman Zali Morgan. There will also be a floor talk (10 July) and panel discussion (13 July); every event is free to the public.

Aboriginal Film Festival
Mooro (Joondalup)
8—12 July

HOYTS Cinema Joondalup brings you the Aboriginal Film Festival, held over five days in July. To celebrate NAIDOC Week, the festival will screen five award-winning films featuring Aboriginal filmmakers, actors and storytellers.

Although two of the five screenings have sold out (The New Boy and The Song Keepers), you can still score tickets to Firestarter – The Story of Bangarra, Sweet Country and Wash My Soul in the River’s Flow. Be sure to check all film classifications before booking.

NAIDOC Week events in South Australia

National NAIDOC Week Awards Ceremony
Kaurna (Adelaide)
6 July

To kick off NAIDOC Week 2024, the National NAIDOC Week Awards Ceremony will be held at the Adelaide Convention Centre. The ceremony is all about recognising the outstanding contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people throughout the year.

This year, celebrate the 2024 winners of 10 amazing award categories, including the National NAIDOC Youth Award and the National NAIDOC Lifetime Achievement Award. Those in attendance can also look forward to a stellar line-up of First Nations live performances. Tickets are on sale now and include a three-course meal.

NAIDOC Art & Storytelling Workshop
Peramangk (Mount Barker)
10 July

If you’re keen on interactive experiences this NAIDOC Week, why not try your hand at an Art & Storytelling Workshop hosted by Headspace in the Adelaide Hills town of Mount Barker? Guests will be gently led by talented Peramangk/Ngarrindjeri man Kyle Sampson-Booth.

Express your individual identity on canvas, then combine your art with the rest of the workshop participants to create a large mural that will be displayed in the Headspace foyer. Tickets are required, however the event is free to attend.

kapi wala
Kaurna (Adelaide)
Until 27 July

Art enthusiasts should head to The Gallery at St Peters Town Hall Complex in Adelaide for the breathtaking kapi wala exhibition this NAIDOC Week. The art showcase has been running since 21 June but will end this month on 27 July, so time is running out!

kapi wala is all about celebrating artists from Iwiri Arts and KU Arts and their works, which you can witness in all their stark beauty at The Gallery. Admiring artworks – think paintings and hand-crafted ceramics – by Indigenous artists is a great way to celebrate NAIDOC Week this year.

NAIDOC Week events in the Northern Territory

NAIDOC March
Warumungu (Tennant Creek)
8 July

The Tennant Creek NAIDOC March is all about community. Kicking off bright and early, meet up with fellow marchers at 9.45am outside the Northern Land Council. Officially starting at 10 am, the walk takes attendees through town and ends at Civic Hall.

Upon arrival, everyone can gather to enjoy awards and refreshments, including a barbecue and damper. Spend the rest of the day among community members to celebrate the accomplishments of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Tennant Creek.

Deadly Cup Carnival
Larrakia (Darwin)
7 July

This year, the ever-exciting Deadly Cup Rugby League Carnival will be held at TRL Stadium in Darwin on 7 July. The free event celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, promotes health and wellbeing and showcases Rugby League talent from across the NT.

The carnival is a family-friendly, smoke, drug and alcohol-free event. On the day there will be cultural performances, cooking demonstrations, family-friendly activities to participate in and, of course, football!

Alice Springs Show
Mparntwe (Alice Springs)
5—6 July

The Alice Springs Show is a much-loved community event and the largest of its kind in Mparntwe/Alice Springs, filled with experiences, attractions and activities for the whole family.

Check out local photography, craft, cooking, art, horticulture and agriculture competitions. Try delicious local produce at food stalls. Test your courage on some of the rides. Try your luck at the show games. And connect to the community during NAIDOC Week.

Palmerston Youth Festival
Larrakia (Palmerston)
6—12 July

After a hugely successful 2023, the Palmerston Youth Festival is back for another year of amazing NAIDOC Week celebrations just outside of Darwin. The festival is all about empowering young people and engaging them in immersive and interactive activities.

Over seven jam-packed days, youth from across the Northern Territory can relish a variety of unforgettable events. From the NAIDOC Pool Party to Youth Pride and Sportsfest, the event is an inclusive and accessible place for kids to celebrate.

Katherine NAIDOC Ball
Jawoyn (Katherine)
13 July

It’s time to get all gowned up for the 2024 rendition of the Katherine NAIDOC Ball! Hosted by the Katherine NAIDOC Committee at the Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Arts & Culture Centre, this 18+ event is a fantastic celebration of the Katherine community.

Dance the night away with your friends to live music by NT band the Mystics, followed by a delicious dinner at Godinymayin and a slice of NAIDOC cake to top it off. Be sure to go all out – prizes for best dressed are up for grabs! Tickets are on sale now.

NAIDOC Week events in the ACT

First Nations Experience of Democracy Tour
Ngunnawal (Canberra)
7—14 July

The First Nations Experience of Democracy Tour at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House in Canberra is a great way to celebrate NAIDOC Week. It allows participants to consider aspects of the experiences of First Nation Australians within our democracy.

Hear stories of how First Nation Australians have taken different pathways to fight injustice and bring about change in Australia. Tours run every day at 2pm, taking about 45 minutes to complete.

Warriors Basketball Club NAIDOC Tournament
Ngunnawal (Canberra)
12—14 July

Started in 2017, the Warriors Basketball Club NAIDOC Tournament focuses on two main things: reconciliation and awareness. Since then, it has developed into a much-loved community event that raises funds for players who are experiencing financial hardship and promotes inclusivity in sport.

The club, which is exclusive to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander players, is now taking entries for $425 per team. Locals are also encouraged to come down, support and watch the action unfold at Tuggeranong and Belconnen Basketball Stadiums. Go Warriors!

The Australian Dream
Ngunnawal (Canberra)
11 July

Showing at Canberra’s Arc Cinema as part of NAIDOC Week is The Australian Dream, a compelling documentary following Adnyamathanha man and AFL legend Adam Goodes. The sportsman became well-known across the country when he called out the racism he was experiencing during his career, on and off the field.

Settle in at 6 pm for a special NAIDOC Week screening of the moving film, which has gone on to win multiple awards, including the Audience Award for Best Documentary Feature at the Melbourne International Film Festival. It’s a poignant way to round out NAIDOC Week 2024. 

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