Barunga Festival is a must for anyone seeking an authentic Aboriginal cultural experience. An iconic family friendly event on the national festival calendar, Barunga boasts a long and proud tradition of celebrating Indigenous music, culture and sport.
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About Barunga Festival
Barunga Festival is a must for anyone seeking an authentic Aboriginal cultural experience. An iconic family friendly event on the national festival calendar, Barunga boasts a long and proud tradition of celebrating Indigenous music, culture and sport.
2023 is the 35 year anniversary of the Barunga Statement and the event has been handed back to the Bagala Aboriginal Corporation.
This much-loved Territory festival attracts more than 4000 fans – Indigenous and non-Indigenous people – who celebrate together in a small community with a population of about 360. Barunga is 80 kilometres southeast of Katherine. The Traditional Owners welcome you to camp and take part in a program of activities over the three-day long weekend in June each year.
Barunga Festival has a long history of showcasing Katherine and Arnhem Land regional arts and supporting remote Indigenous communities to come together and celebrate the positive aspects of community life. Visitors of all ages are encouraged to join in the festivities and enjoy this unique opportunity to engage with a remote Indigenous community.
Over the years, the festival has grown in popularity and is now recognized as one of the most significant Indigenous cultural events in Australia. It features a range of activities, including traditional dance and music performances, art exhibitions, workshops, sports competitions and cultural talks.
One of the festival’s highlights is the Barunga sports and cultural program, which includes traditional sports, such as spear throwing and tug-of-war, as well as modern sports, such as football and basketball. The program also includes cultural activities, such as storytelling and bush medicine workshops.
The festival has played a significant role in promoting Indigenous culture and raising awareness of Indigenous issues in Australia. It has also been instrumental in promoting reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians, and promoting understanding and respect for Indigenous culture. Today, the Barunga Festival continues to be an important event in the Australian cultural calendar and an essential celebration of Indigenous culture and heritage.
We are still shaping up the program in conjunction with the Bagala Aboriginal Corporation.