Experience First Nations Culture in North Sydney
Gai-mariagal Festival 2026 in North Sydney offers free First Nations cultural experiences from May through August. The event spans exhibitions, workshops, and storytimes, celebrating Cammeraygal Country's rich heritage.
Activities include bilingual storytimes, basket weaving workshops, and guided heritage walks. Events are hosted in libraries, galleries, and outdoor spaces, inviting attendees to engage with First Nations culture.
North Sydney Mayor Zoë Baker emphasised the festival's role in fostering community connections with First Nations culture. "The Gai-mariagal Festival invites our community to come together to listen, learn and reflect on the deep cultural knowledge and creativity of First Nations peoples," Mayor Baker said.
Cultural Events and Workshops
First Nations Bilingual Storytimes will be held on 29th May, 19th June, and 31st July, with no bookings required. Basket weaving workshops with artists Jodie Dowd and Sasha Parlett are scheduled for 30th May and 20th June, with bookings essential.
A Weaving and Yarning Circle with Koori Kinnections is set for 4th June, focusing on traditional weaving methods. An Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Walk will occur on 28th June, exploring the history and spirituality of the Cammeraygal and Wallumedegal peoples.
The Threadlines Art Exhibition will run from 2nd July to 2nd August, with its opening night on 2nd July. Curated by Nicole Monks, the exhibition features First Nations artists across various residency pathways.
For those interested in creative workshops, 'Connection to Country through Waterways' will be held on 4th July, with artist educators Merindah Funnell and Emma Hicks leading the session. Meanwhile, a 'Meet the Author' event with Melissa-Jane Fogarty is scheduled for 8th July at Stanton Library.
Full event details and booking information can be found on the North Sydney Council’s website. The festival aligns with significant dates such as National Sorry Day, Reconciliation Week, and NAIDOC Week, offering a comprehensive cultural experience.
