Barunga festival returns to celebrate culture and community
More than 5,000 people are expected to gather for the annual Barunga Festival, celebrating First Nations culture, connection and community.
The Federal Government is supporting the iconic festival with $250,000 in funding for this year’s event, held in the remote Northern Territory community of Barunga, near Katherine.
As well as traditional cultural workshops, art and dance, there will be entertainment by leading First Nations musicians Troy Cassar-Daley, Jem Cassar-Daley, Frank Yamma and Emily Wurramara.
Ensuring cultures remain strong
“Each year, the remote community of Barunga welcomes visitors from across the Northern Territory and the country to celebrate First Nations culture, music and sport,” Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy said.
“Festivals like Barunga help ensure First Nations cultures and languages remain strong.”
More than forty sporting teams from across the Territory will also compete in AFL, basketball and softball across the weekend.
Barunga is an important site in Australia’s history, where the Barunga Statement was presented to then Prime Minister Bob Hawke in 1988.
Festivals like Barunga play an important role in building understanding and respect and supporting First Nations cultures and languages so they are strong and flourishing.
Special Envoy for Remote Communities, Marion Scrymgour said Barunga was a special place for the NT and for the country.
“It’s a place that brings people together and is a symbol of the resilience, strength and culture of our remote communities,” she said.
“Ours is a Government which backs and supports our First Nations communities and works to celebrate their rich history and heritage.”
Under direction of Traditional Owners
Bagala Aboriginal Corporation CEO, Jarah Maraschio said this year, the Barunga Festival was proudly under the direction of its local Traditional Owners.
“The Bagala Aboriginal Corporation and its board are thrilled to welcome a record-breaking 5,000 ticket holders to the festival site in the Barunga community,” he said.
This year’s festival is managed by the Bagala Aboriginal Corporation, representing the Jawoyn communities of Barunga and Beswick, ensuring local ownership and self-determination.
The 2026 Barunga Festival will be held between June 5-7.
