Parramatta will celebrate NAIDOC Week with the return of the Burramatta NAIDOC Festival, inviting locals and visitors to take part in a day of First Nations culture, music, dance and community activities.
The free event will be held on Saturday 11 July from 11am to 3pm and will feature live music, dance performances, hands-on workshops and market stalls celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.
The annual festival forms part of the City of Parramatta’s Warami program, which showcases both contemporary and traditional First Nations culture through music, art, food and storytelling while continuing connections with the local Dharug community.
City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Martin Zaiter said the festival had become a key event on the city’s cultural calendar.
“Warami is all about connection, bringing people together to celebrate and learn from the rich cultures of our First Nations communities here in Parramatta,” Cr Zaiter said.
He said this year’s NAIDOC Week theme, “50 Years of Deadly”, recognised the achievements and legacy of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across Australia.
“This year’s NAIDOC Week theme ‘50 Years of Deadly’ marks an important milestone celebrating the achievements and legacy of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across Australia.
“Burramatta NAIDOC Day is a chance for our community to come together, reflect on our shared history and celebrate the cultures, stories and traditions that continue to shape our City.”
The festival has been designed as an inclusive and accessible event, encouraging people of all ages to take part in the celebrations.
Warami 2026 also includes the National Sorry Day commemorative event along with activities across Parramatta’s libraries, PHIVE and Riverside Theatres, expanding opportunities for residents and visitors to engage with First Nations culture throughout the year.
The City of Parramatta is also introducing new uniforms for outdoor staff featuring artwork by Burramattagal-Wiradjuri artist Tara Lloyd. The designs reflect the connection of the eel to the Parramatta River and recognise the role of circular forms in Aboriginal storytelling and gathering.
The project has received assistance from the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body.
The NAIDOC Week activity is delivered with funding support from the National Indigenous Australians Agency, while the Burramatta NAIDOC Festival is supported by venue partner Greater Sydney Parklands.
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