Parramatta Park

NAIDOC Week is an invitation for all Aussies to celebrate and learn more about the world's oldest living culture. On July 11, Parramatta marks the occasion with a free festival bringing together First Nations music, markets, food and cultural experiences – and everyone’s on the guest list. Taking over The Crescent in Parramatta Park from 11am to 3pm, catch live music all day at the 50 Years of Deadly Stage. The line-up features a spellbinding performance from ARIA Award-winning artist, DOBBY; Australia's longest-performing all-female First Nations band, Stiff Gins; a set from the ethereal Akala Newman blending future-pop with R&B; and the poetry, song and storytelling of Cooee.  Beyond the stage, festival-goers can join traditional dance classes led by the Jannawi Dance Clan, a Western Sydney-based First Nations intergenerational collective, or get hands-on in a weaving workshop exploring traditional techniques. There’s also a Bush to Bowl Food Demonstration, where you’ll learn about caring for Country and the rich cultural knowledge carried through native plants and traditional foodways. A market featuring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-owned businesses will be running throughout the day, with stalls selling everything from artworks to jewellery and colourful beach essentials. When hunger strikes, grab a feed from Kallico Catering, serving up a modern bushtucker menu, or head to Wilka Thalta for street food-style plates that showcase traditional knowledge and...