6 ways to educate your family through First Nations activities and culture.

As NAIDOC week approaches, it is an opportunity to listen and learn from one of the oldest cultures on the planet.
Parramatta has been home to the Burramattagal and Dharug peoples for more than 60,000 years. Their deep connection to the land, value of community and the importance of holistic well-being is reflected in the songs and stories passed down through generations. 
Today Parramatta (Burramatta) offers a wide range of First Nations activities and events including outdoor concerts, film, music, food, dance, and workshops. 

Here are 6 ways you can educate your family through First Nations activities and culture in Parramatta.

1.    Attend a Cultural Event 

Take your family to First Nations cultural event Burramatta NAIDOC on Saturday 13 July in Parramatta Park. This huge outdoor event features a music concert headlined by First Nations hip hop artist JK-47 plus an amazing line-up of supporting artists. Plus workshops, dance performances and market stalls.

Best of all, entry is free!

2.    Watch Indigenous Films and Theatre

To coincide with NAIDOC week, Riverside Theatres will be screening two beautiful First Nations led films, Heart of the Man (12 July) and The Skin of Others (14 July).

For musical fans, Brittanie Shipway will be starring in Beyond Broadway. With some songs featuring her First Nations Gumbaynggirr language, this show is a celebration of culture and the power of music to transcend boundaries.

3.    Join a Koori Kinnections Aboriginal Cultural Walk

Join a friendly guide on this inspiring walk within Parramatta Park and along the Parramatta River. Hear about connections to land, plant uses for food and medicinal purposes, hunting, weaving and other aspects of local culture.

4.    Participate in traditional activities

The Burramatta NAIDOC event will host workshops exploring First Nations culture including native flower arranging, cultural talks and an artefact presentation.

Or might you like to try the basket weaving workshops at PHIVE in 5 Parramatta Square. Connect with culture and community as you weave with Ngiyampaa and Guringai artist Tarni Eastwood. 

5.    Look at First Nations art

Discover the new Yilabara Path Laneway mural, designed by Leanne Watson Redpath, Tina Barahanos and Alexandra Byrne, next to the Parramatta River Foreshore.

Or check out Where Eels Lie Down in Parramatta Square, a public artwork created by Kamilaroi artist, Reko Rennie, honouring the significance of the eel in Parramatta. The 7.5-metre-tall sculpture depicts two eels rising from the ground and crossing each other as they play. 

6.    Support Indigenous Artisans: 

Encourage your family to support Indigenous artisans and craftspeople by purchasing from the Burramatta NAIDOC market stalls on Saturday 13 July. Whether it's jewellery, clothing, or artwork, buying directly from Indigenous artists helps sustain cultural traditions and economic empowerment.

To find out more about Burramatta NAIDOC, and First Nations events and workshops this July, click here.