Experience a powerful Pacific cultural performance celebrating the new Powerhouse Parramatta with community-created art and ceremony.
Saturday 7 November 2026
to Sunday 8 November 2026
4:00am
Powerhouse Parramatta, Qantas Terrace, Ground level, 34 Phillip St, Parramatta NSW 2150
Free
Immerse yourself in a vibrant celebration of Pacific artistry and Indigenous cultural practice at the Powerhouse Parramatta's opening festival. This event honors the Traditional Custodians and showcases the Te Waka Whakakotahi (Waka of Unity) alongside community-created OCEAN WE’VE mats. Families will enjoy a rich program featuring performances, storytelling, and music that connect deeply with local and Pacific heritage.
The festival highlights the talents of Matavai Pacific Cultural Arts and youth initiatives, offering a unique cultural experience that is both educational and inspiring for school-aged children and their parents. This is a wonderful opportunity to engage with authentic Pacific stories and ceremonies in a welcoming environment.
The opening festival runs over two days with two sessions starting early morning at 04:00 on Saturday 7 November and Sunday 8 November 2026. Attendance is free but bookings are essential, ensuring a comfortable and well-organized experience for all visitors.
Featured performances include Te Raranga Whānui Kapa Haka, Noqu Vanua Youth Initiative, Manea Pacifica, and more, with a program designed to celebrate and amplify Pacific-led Indigenous cultural practices. The event is family-friendly and offers a meaningful way to introduce children to cultural heritage through engaging live performances.
The festival takes place at Powerhouse Parramatta, located on Dharug Land at Qantas Terrace, Ground level, 34 Phillip St, Parramatta NSW 2150. The venue is accessible and well-equipped to welcome families with children, providing easy access and facilities to ensure a comfortable visit.
Powerhouse Parramatta is committed to accessibility and offers detailed information on how to plan your visit, including transport options and amenities. This makes it an ideal destination for a family outing that combines culture, education, and entertainment.
Bookings are essential to attend this free event, so be sure to reserve your tickets early to secure your place. The festival respects and acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land, inviting visitors to engage respectfully with the cultural stories and ceremonies presented.
Please arrive on time for the early morning sessions and prepare for a unique cultural experience that may include ceremonial elements and community artworks. The event is suitable for parents and school-aged children interested in cultural heritage and the arts.
Admission to the opening festival is free, but all attendees must book their tickets in advance. Booking links are available through the Powerhouse Parramatta website. This ensures a smooth entry process and helps organizers manage capacity for a safe and enjoyable event.
Families are encouraged to book early to avoid disappointment, as this culturally rich festival promises to be a highlight of the year for those interested in Pacific and Indigenous cultural arts.
