NAIDOC week is a celebration of the histories, cultures and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
It has its origins in Aboriginal protest and activism. It can be traced to the emergence of Aboriginal groups in the 1920s which sought to increase awareness in the wider community of the status and treatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians.
This year marks 50 years of the week-long celebrations, and the theme, ‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy’ celebrates achievements of the past and the bright future ahead.
Learn more about Aboriginal culture and history at the Sydney Barani website.
We encourage everyone to connect with NAIDOC events across our local area. You'll find them in Glebe, Woolloomooloo and Redfern.
Here are some ways to get involved.
Visit NAIDOC in the City
Our yearly event features Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander music, dance, crafts, arts and products and services. A free live music concert will light up the big stage in Centennial Hall with headline acts Becca Hatch, Jem Cassar-Daley, 3% and more. See the schedule here.
Sydney Town Hall
Thursday 10 July
Markets 2:30pm–8pm
Concert 7pm–10:30pm
Learn about local bush foods
Join Sydney City Farm's bush food planting day. Learn about bush foods suitable for growing in the local area, their uses and pot up a plant to take home.
Sydney City Farm, St Peters
Saturday 12 July from 12pm to 3:15pm
Sing with the Barayagal Choir
Experience a live performance by Barayagal, a community choir led by Nardi Simpson. Take part in a workshop to learn and sing together in celebration of First Nations voices.
Green Square Library
Thursday 10 July from 6:30pm to 7:30pm
All-ages fun at the National Maritime Museum
The museum will host a jam-packed day full of cultural activities for all ages, including artmaking, dance workshops with Bangarra Dance Theatre and storytelling.
Australian Maritime Museum
Sunday 6 July from 9:30am to 5pm
Explore the National Indigenous Art Fair
Enjoy a vibrant weekend of Indigenous art, design, food, and live performances. Taste native bush foods with celebrity chef Mindy Woods and hear music from Stiff Gins and Olivia and Cianna.
Overseas Passenger Terminal
Saturday 5 July & Sunday 6 July
Go to a talk
Join Gadigal Elder and cultural educator Uncle Jimmy Smith for a free 3-part talk series sharing stories and wisdom passed down through generations. Learn directly from a traditional custodian about Aboriginal knowledge systems and their deep connection to nature and community.
St. Helen’s Community Centre
Sky – Astronomy: Tuesday 1 July, 11am–1:30pm Book
Land and Culture: Tuesday 8 July, 11am–1:30pm Book
Waters: Tuesday 15 July, 11am–1:30pm Book
Want more?
Explore the city’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and discover the stories that have changed the nation using the Sydney Culture Walks app.
Find all NAIDOC week events happening around Sydney on the official NAIDOC website.
Published 19 June 2025
