Find First Nations Music & Gatherings Happening on 26 January - MusicNSW
On 26 January, First Nations communities and allies will come together in solidarity to reflect and recognise the history, culture and sovereignty of First Nations peoples.

These are just some of the many gatherings featuring First Nations artists happening across NSW.

YABUN FESTIVAL

26 January, Victoria Park, Broadway (Sydney)

Yabun is Australia's largest one-day celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. The festival showcases the richness and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. We are bringing back all the action you love, including Market Stalls, Speak Out panels, our Jarjums tent brimming with all-day children’s activities and performances, and a Corroboree ground highlighting the traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dance cultures.

VIGIL: gunyah

7 - 25 January, Barangaroo Reserve, Hickson Road (Sydney)

Vigil: Gunyah is a gathering space at Barangaroo Reserve that is led, curated and designed by and for First Nations peoples, communities and allies. Over three weeks of Sydney Festival, it will host conversations curated by radio broadcaster Rudi Bremer, as well as workshops and performances by local and national artists and thinkers.

VIGIL: TRUTHS

25 January, Barangaroo Reserve, Hickson Road (Sydney)

To close out the program on the evening of 25 January, Vigil returns to Barangaroo Reserve. Vigil: Truths is a large-scale gathering that focuses on being heard, sharing knowledges and presenting First Nations visions for the future. At its core is the act of listening — listening to the many voices that will resonate across the land and waters on this night.

BLAK POWERHOUSE

26 January, Manning House, Camperdown (Sydney)

Blak Powerhouse returns for its third edition, celebrating a year of exceptional Blak arts, music, and culture. The event marks a new era of Blak brilliance, with emerging kings and queens leading the way. On January 26, We Are Warriors collaborates with Powerhouse to host an event at Manning House, featuring live music, dance, art, food, DJs, and more.

NITV BROADCAST: SOUNDS OF SOLIDARITY

26 January, premieres on NITV at 2.20pm

Sounds Of Solidarity is a three-hour broadcast which celebrates the powerful and enduring legacy of music and culture from First Nations identities. Guest hosted by rapper Nooky, singer/songwriter Naomi Wenitong (of Shakaya and The Last Kinection fame), and media personality Megan Waters, the new edition will focus on the best of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander music.

Ngarrama 

25 January, King Edward Park (Newcastle)

Ngarrama is an opportunity for the Newcastle community to come together on the eve of Australia/Survival Day to reflect on traditional life in Mooloobinba before 1788 and to celebrate the richness and resilience of First Nations culture - in particular the Awabakal and Worimi people, the traditional owners of the land upon which Newcastle now stands.

Bundjalung Nation Survival Day 

26 January, Apex Park, Arakwal Country (Byron Bay)

This event will feature powerful speeches, music to celebrate culture, Blak stalls supporting local businesses, and a community gathering to learn and connect.

Griffith Survival Day 

26 January, Griffith Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre (Griffith)

Hosted by Griffith City Council and the Griffith Local Aboriginal Land Council, the day invites everyone in the community to come together to learn, share, and celebrate. With free entry to the pool, attendees can enjoy a rich line-up of activities, including traditional dancing, singing, cultural stalls, and live music by talented local artists. A free BBQ lunch will also be provided.

KATOOMBA Survival Day 

26 January, Barton St (Katoomba)

Attend Katoomba North Public School's annual Survival Day event for 2025! This year features even more amusement rides, live music, Indigenous dance performances, information and activity stalls, food trucks, a BBQ, and much more!

Sunset Cultural Ceremony 

25 January, Burnum Burnum Sanctuary (Woronora)

Come along and take part in an evening of reflection: join a yarning circle, support First Nations stallholders and enjoy a delicious Sutherland Rotary BBQ.

Murun-Dhu - I Live, I Breathe Day of Contemplation

25 - 26 January, CSU Riverina Playhouse (Wagga Wagga)

Two events - held over 25th and 26th January celebrate the culture and resilience of the Wiradjuri people.

On the 25th we have a concert at The Riverside Stage featuring rap artist Philly and Beacho2700, together with country music crooners Lawrence Lollipop Barlow and Dookie Thorne. This will be supported by a smoking ceremony and welcome to country.

On the 26th of January we go behind closed doors at the Riverina Playhouse to contemplate Australia Day with yarning, films, documentaries, and animations. Mob and allies welcome.

Lead image: Ron Callaghan. Photo by Daniel Glossip.