Experience vibrant First Nations culture with performances, workshops, and family-friendly activities at the Australian National Maritime Museum.
Sunday 12 July 2026
10:00am - 4:00pm
2 Murray St, Darling Hbr, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Free
Celebrate the oldest continuous living cultures on earth during NAIDOC week with a lively and engaging day at the Australian National Maritime Museum. This free event offers a rich program of performances, artmaking, storytelling, and cultural workshops suitable for all ages. Immerse your family in the stories and knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples while enjoying hands-on creative activities.
The day features traditional smoking ceremonies, dance and music performances, interactive workshops, and delicious native ingredient tastings. With access to all museum galleries, Kids on Deck maker space, vessels, and the LEGO® Bricktropolis-Viking Village, there is something to captivate every member of the family.
All activities are free and drop-in, making it easy to join in at your own pace and explore the vibrant cultural offerings throughout the day.
The program begins at 11:00 with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony led by Uncle Les McLeod, setting a respectful and meaningful tone. Enjoy dance performances by the Marra-Wanggan Dance Group and Jirribitti Dreaming, followed by interactive dance workshops suitable for beginners.
Live music by Baakanji Kunya musician Ross Knight will be featured in 30-minute sets throughout the day. Participate in mixed media and weaving workshops led by Dunghutti/Gomeroi artist Nioka Lowe-Brennan and Dunghutti Biripi artist Wanita Lowe, where you can create unique artworks to take home.
Additional highlights include NAIDOC-inspired face painting, live art demonstrations by award-winning illustrator Dub Leffler, native animal magnet making, and screenings of the animated 'Cosmic Chase' inspired by Torres Strait Islander art.
The event takes place at the Australian National Maritime Museum, located at 2 Murray Street, Darling Harbour, Sydney NSW 2000. The museum is situated on Gadigal land and is easily accessible by public transport, including trains and buses to Darling Harbour.
All museum galleries and outdoor spaces such as the Ben Lexcen Terrace and Boardwalk will be open for exploration. The Kids on Deck maker space offers a dedicated area for children’s creative activities.
Parking options are available nearby, and the venue is family-friendly with facilities to accommodate visitors of all ages.
This is a free event with all NAIDOC activities being drop-in and open to the public. Due to popular demand, online tickets are no longer available, but limited tickets may be available on the day.
Some food tastings and takeaway items at the Koori Kulcha pop-up kiosk involve purchases, while most activities are free of charge. Workshops have limited capacity and are suitable for various age groups, with some activities recommended for children aged 4 and above.
Please arrive early to secure your spot in popular workshops and performances. The event celebrates Indigenous culture with respect and inclusivity, welcoming all families to participate.
All activities during the Free Open Day are free to attend. No prior booking is required for most workshops and performances, as they operate on a drop-in basis.
Tickets for entry were initially available online but are now exhausted; however, a limited number of tickets may be available for collection on the day at the venue.
Visitors are encouraged to check the museum’s website or contact the museum for any updates or additional information regarding the event.
