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 one of Australia’s most significant community-led First Nations cultural gatherings. Held each year on 26 January, it brings mob and allies together to honour history, acknowledge loss, and celebrate the strength, survival and excellence of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through music, dance, talks, markets and community activity. This year, the program is stacked, with performances from Baker Boy, Budjerah, Stiff Gins and more.
BLAK POWERHOUSE
26 January, Manning House, Camperdown (Sydney)
Blak Powerhouse 2026 has announced a standout line-up of First Nations artists, including ARIA Award–winner BARKAA and rap collective 3%, taking place on 26 January at Manning House at the University of Sydney. Presented by Powerhouse and First Nations-led social enterprise We Are Warriors, the all-ages event celebrates Blak excellence with live music, DJs, dance, panels, workshops, art, markets and short films. Now in its fourth year, Blak Powerhouse invites everyone to gather in ceremony, culture and community.
CULTURE ON COUNTRY
26 January, La Perouse Headland (Sydney)
Join us on the La Perouse Headland this 26 January to honour survival, resistance and the enduring strength of First Nations cultures. Culture on Country will be hosted by Sean Choolburra and feature live music from Cianna Walker, cultural dance by Doonooch Dancers and Wuruniri and more, plus free drop-in workshops including weaving with Malima and shellwork with Aunty Maxine Ryan. Stay on to watch the sunset and share a free community BBQ, open to all.
MURUN-DHU (I LIVE, I BREATHE)
25 January, Wagga Beach (Wagga Wagga)
Come on down to the Riverside Stage for Murun-Dhu (I Live, I Breathe) – a free celebration of First Nations culture and art. Enjoy a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony, along with music, dance, yarning, weaving, readings, games, and performances from familiar favourites and emerging artists nurtured & mentored by Philly The Aboriginal.
SALTWATER FRESHWATER FESTIVAL
26 January, North Coast Regional Botanical Garden (Coffs Harbour)
Don't miss out on Saltwater Freshwater Festival, a day filled with incredible cultural talent. Headlined by award-winning Emily Wurramara, the lineup features Roger Knox, Birren, Gunganbu Band, Greenstone Band, with intimate Yarn Tent performances by Tareik Hart and Jambaal Dreaming. The festival is a deeply immersive showcase and powerful celebration of First Nations music, culture, and community on Gumbaynggirr Country in Coffs Harbour.
KURADJI SURVIVAL DAY
26 January, McCauley’s Beach (Thirroul)
Come along to McCauley’s Beach in Thirroul to respect, connect & reflect on First Nations resilience for Kuradji Survival Day. A family event for all, join the community for a smoking ceremony, live music and BBQ. This is a strictly alcohol and drug free event.
SURVIVAL DAY 2026 KATOOMBA
26 January, Katoomba North Public School (Katoomba)
Come along to Katoomba North Public School for a day of reflection, resilience, and celebration of First Nations culture. Survival Day is a time to acknowledge the strength and survival of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and come together in unity. Experience a Welcome to Country & Smoking Ceremony, plus live performances from First Nations artists, and plenty of cultural workshops and activities for people of all ages to enjoy.
Lead image: Richard Luland by Daniel Glossip, MusicNSW Regional Tours 2024