The 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week kicks off this Sunday, July 6, with celebrations taking place across the city.
We’ve created a comprehensive guide to help you plan your week, including details on the most popular NAIDOC Week events and some exciting newcomers and performance debuts. From fireworks to art fairs, there are plenty of chances to learn, connect and have a great time. We’ve also rounded up our favourite Indigenous cultural tours in Sydney that are available year-round, not just during NAIDOC week.
What is NAIDOC week?
NAIDOC (which stands for National Aboriginal and Islanders Day Observance Committee) is a celebration of First Nations history, culture and achievement. It’s a time for all Australians to come together, appreciate and learn about First Nations peoples’ heritage. The week-long, annual celebrations start on the first Sunday of July, and every year there is a new theme, chosen by the national organising committee.
This year, NAIDOC week commences on Sunday, July 6, until Sunday, July 13, and the theme is “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy”. It will offer a powerful reflection on the 50-year journey since the first event, honouring the past while looking boldly into the future.
The history of NAIDOC Week
Before the 1920s, Aboriginal rights groups boycotted Australia Day (January 26), but as public indifference persisted, protest strategies shifted. A pivotal moment came on Australia Day in 1938, when protestors gathered at Australia Hall in Sydney for the Day of Mourning — an appeal for equal rights, education, and full citizenship for First Nations people.
This event sparked a legacy of activism that continued through the 20th century. From 1940 to 1955, the Day of Mourning became Aboriginal Day and was held annually before Australia Day. In 1955, the date was moved to the first Sunday in July to also celebrate Aboriginal culture. The National Aboriginal Day Observance Committee (NADOC) was soon formed, and by 1974, the committee was composed entirely of Aboriginal members. In 1975, it was decided that the celebration should span a full week.
In 1991, NADOC became NAIDOC, formally recognising the distinct cultural identities of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and now, in 2025, we celebrate 50 years of NAIDOC Week — a vibrant and growing recognition of Indigenous culture, art, food, talent, and enterprise.
NAIDOC Week Sydney Events and Activities
1. National Indigenous Art Fair
The National Indigenous Art Fair will return for its fifth annual market at the Overseas Passenger Terminal in Circular Quay, marking the start of NAIDOC Week celebrations. The NIAF celebrates the work of First Nations artists, designers and makers, with more than 50 stallholders presenting art, handmade jewellery, homewares, food and more. Over 100 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists will be present, making it one of the largest gatherings of Indigenous artists in Sydney ever.
The 2025 program will also offer a variety of intimate, ticketed workshops where visitors can learn directly from master artists. This includes a weaving circle with Rose and Lilian Wilfred, a painting workshop with Warlukurlangu Artists and a weaving masterclass with Regina Pilawuk Wilson. Workshop tickets can be booked via the website. There will also be Little Mobs Kids drop-in workshops, including gumnut jewellery-making and ochre face painting, which will be free with entry.
All proceeds raised from the ethical marketplace go directly back to the artist and First Nations communities. See the list of incredible art centres attending here.
Where: Gadigal Land Overseas Passenger Terminal, 130 Argyle St, The Rocks NSW 2000.
When: Saturday, June 5 (10am–5pm) and Sunday, June 6 (10am–4pm).
Price: $3 per person, aged 12 and above.
2. NAIDOC Week at Opera Bar
The Opera Bar is celebrating NAIDOC Week with a culinary tribute to First Nations excellence. From July 6 to July 13, they’ll be serving up dishes created by their First Nations Chef team, which highlights native ingredients and culture. On the menu: kangaroo salami pizzette with saltbush ($22), lamb sliders featuring native dukkah and bush tomatoes ($24), Sydney Rock oysters topped with native ginger and finger lime dressing ($40) and for dessert, a wattleseed pavlova ($15)— a must-try, by all accounts.
Where: Sydney Opera House, Lower Concourse Level, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: July 6-13, 2025.
3. NAIDOC in the City
On July 10, Sydney Town Hall will come alive with a vibrant market showcasing First Nations businesses, followed by a concert celebrating the talents of Indigenous musicians and dancers as part of NAIDOC in the City. Among these talents is R&B soul artist, Mi-kaisha, and up-and-coming rapper, songwriter and music producer, Yung Brother.
Where: Sydney Town Hall, 483 George St, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: Thursday, 10 July from 2:30pm-10:30pm.
Price: Free admission.
4. Solid Ground NAIDOC Exhibition
Solid Ground is an incredible initiative that provides education, training and employment paths for young First Nations people, connecting them with artists, fostering creativity, cultural pride and community engagement.
This year, students from Alexandria Park Community School, Erskine Park High School and Chifley College Dunheved celebrate the 2025 NAIDOC Week theme and the 10th anniversary of Solid Ground with an exciting exhibition. Mentored by acclaimed creatives, including visual artist Peta-Joy Williams, singer-songwriter Akala Newman, composer/producer Dyagula and a host of triple j’s Blak Out Nooky, they’ll explore themes of identity, culture and history through mediums including weaving, visual arts and poetry.
Where: Carriageworks, 245 Wilson St, Eveleigh, NSW.
When: June 26- July 13, 2025, 10am-5pm.
Price: Admission is free.
5. Fireworks at Darling Harbour
Every Saturday evening, fireworks light up Darling Harbour at 8:30pm. On Saturday, July 5 and July 12, however, there will be a Welcome to Country & Smoking Ceremony at 7pm, as well as special cultural dance performances at Cockle Bay Green. The fireworks will then follow at 8:30pm, with a special NAIDOC-inspired display.
Where: 2 Murray Street, Darling Harbour.
When: Saturday, July 5 and Saturday, July 12 from 7pm.
Price: Free.
6. Marrow
Marrow is from the incredible mind of Australia Dance Theatre’s visionary Artistic Director and Wiradjuri man, Daniel Riley. Making its Sydney debut from July 10, Marrow plunges the audience into a world where the ancient and contemporary collide. The powerful dance work is an honest, politically charged response to a nation grappling with its identity and future, blending dynamic movement with smoke, light and an energetic soundtrack.
Developed in collaboration with Australia Dance Theatre’s Company Artists, senior Kaurna/Ngarrindjeri Elder Uncle Moogy Sumner AM, and rising Jaadwa composer James Howard, Marrow is an important and stunning piece, guaranteed to captivate audiences.
Where: Carriageworks, 245 Wilson Street, Eveleigh.
When: Thursday, July 10–Saturday, July 12. Thursday & Friday starting 6:30pm, Saturday starting at 2pm and 6:30pm.
Price: Tickets start at $40, plus booking fee.
7. NAIDOC Week Open Day by Australian National Maritime Museum
Down in Darling Harbour, the Australian National Maritime Museum is honouring this year’s theme with a free family fun day on Sunday, starting with a Smoking Ceremony led by Elder Uncle Les and continuing with a range of engaging and educational activities, including Bush drinks and native plant workshops, live music performances and dance workshops.
Where: 2 Murray Street, Darling Harbour.
When: Sunday, July 6.
Price: Free.
8. Eora NAIDOC inner-city family fun day
Organised by the Eora NAIDOC Community Group, this inner-city family fun day is free to attend. There will be live music, an Elders Space, Jarjum and youth activities, and a free BBQ too. Throughout the day, there will also be traditional and contemporary Aboriginal performances.
Where: Carriageworks, 245 Wilson St, Eveleigh NSW 2015.
When: Thursday, July 10, 10am–3pm.
Price: Admission is free.
eorainnercityfamilyfunday.com.au
9. Dancing by the Water at Barangaroo
The newly opened Pier Pavilion will host a program of free workshops throughout NAIDOC week, suitable for all ages and abilities. Following the theme of the week, Dancing by the Water will focus on passing down music, movement, knowledge and storytelling to the next generation, through traditional and contemporary cultural dance workshops. The program is as follows:
- Monday, July 7: Jannawi Dance Clan
- Wednesday, July 9: Dhinawan Yarn and Entertainment
- Friday, July 11: Kiris An Taran Torres Strait Islander Dance Troupe.
Where: Pier Pavilion, 3 Barangaroo Ave.
When: Monday 7, Wednesday 9, and Friday 11 July, 11am-12pm, 12pm-1pm.
Price: Free.
10. NAIDOC Week at South Eveleigh
To celebrate NAIDOC Week, South Eveleigh is bringing the precinct to life with a series of immersive events and cultural experiences. Their dynamic program features live music, artist residencies, evocative soundscapes, and interactive workshops. You can see the full list of events and timings here.
The Loco Markets will return from Thursday, July 10 to Sunday, July 13, with a variety of stalls that honour the stories and creativity of First Nations peoples. Buy art, jewellery and prints from Gilawarra Art, or learn about top-quality native foods, drinks, cooking supplies, and botanicals at the Indigiearth stall.
Where: South Eveleigh, Locomotive St, Eveleigh NSW 2015.
When: Tuesday, July 8- Sunday, July 13.
Price: All events are free to attend, with some workshops requiring bookings.
Our favourite Indigenous cultural tours in Sydney
1. Tribal Warrior Aboriginal Cultural Cruise
The Tribal Warrior Aboriginal Cultural Cruise is a profound and eye-opening tour of Sydney Harbour, which gives guests a unique glimpse into the rich indigenous heritage of the city. We experienced this tour first-hand and were impressed by the knowledge and passion of the young guides and the organisation’s commitment to preserving and promoting Aboriginal culture. The cruise stops at various points of sacred importance, including Clarke Island, offering insight into the heritage of the land, thanks to the intimate knowledge of the natural environment.
Where: Eastern Pontoon, Circular Quay.
When: Tours occur every Friday and Saturday, occasionally on weekdays too.
Price: Adults $77; Children $49.50; Students and concessions: $53.90.
2. Burrawa Aboriginal Climb Experience
BridgeClimb is one of Sydney’s most iconic tourist attractions, but did you know you can experience it through a unique cultural lens? Join a First Nations Storyteller to uncover Aboriginal history and landmarks as you make your way to the summit. The Burrawa (meaning ‘above’ or ‘upwards’) Climb adds another layer to your experience, as you’re invited to view Sydney from an Aboriginal perspective.
This NAIDOC week, BridgeClimb are offering increased availability of Burrawa Climbs, as well as free limited-edition water bottles, designed by local Indigenous artist Taleena Simon. They will also be donating $100 from every adult ticket to charity partner, Tribal Warrior, to help support Indigenous programs and communities.
Where: BridgeClimb, 3 Cumberland St, The Rocks NSW 2000.
When: Increased availability of Burrawa Climbs during NAIDOC week.
Price: Adult tickets start at $338.
3. Buunyal Tour of the Blue Mountains
The Buunyal Tour lets guests see the Blue Mountains in a different way. Led through by an Indigenous guide, you’ll learn about Gundungurra Country, hear traditional Indigenous stories and understand the natural wonders of the Blue Mountains. The in-depth tour (which only hosts up to 12 people) takes approximately 150 minutes and includes the Scenic Railway, Skyway and the 10-minute rainforest boardwalk.
Where: 1 Violet Street, Katoomba.
When: Scenic opening hours are 10am-4pm.
Price: Adults from $89, Children from $53.40.
FAQs:
What is NAIDOC Week?
NAIDOC (which stands for National Aboriginal and Islanders Day Observance Committee) is a celebration of First Nations history, culture and achievement. It’s a time for all Australians to come together, appreciate and learn about First Nations peoples’ heritage. The week-long, annual celebrations start on the first Sunday of July, and every year there is a new theme, chosen by the national organising committee.
When is NAIDOC Week 2025 in Sydney?
NAIDOC week commences on Sunday, July 6, and concludes on Sunday, July 13.
What is the theme for NAIDOC Week 2025?
This year, the theme is “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy”, marking a powerful reflection on the 50-year journey since the week’s inception, honouring the past while looking boldly into the future.
How can I participate in NAIDOC Week events?
There are plenty of events citywide that welcome everyone— scroll up to see some of the events and activities that you can participate in.
Are there family-friendly activities during NAIDOC Week?
Yes, there are lots of family-friendly activities during NAIDOC Week. These include: EORA NAIDOC Inner City Family Fun Day, NAIDOC Week Open Day, Dancing by the Water at Barangaroo, Solid Ground NAIDOC Exhibition, National Indigenous Art Fair and NAIDOC in the City.
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