…for we are one and free.
What do you get up to on January 26? See mates, go down to the park or the pub, or do you take part in a ceremony or vigil?
However you decide to spend January 26, take a gander at some of the events taking place in Sydney next Tuesday. (Featured image: @jjato)
1. The Vigil, Barangaroo Reserve
The Vigil returns to Barangaroo Reserve for the third year running.
As part of the Sydney Festival, The Vigil begins at dusk on January 25 and continues through the night until dawn on January 26 with a fire being kept lit for all those that have gathered to contemplate the significance of this day for our First Nations people.
The event, which is family-friendly, has had performances and stories told by current and future community Elders in the past and this year will be no different. It is still free to attend; however, due to Covid you will need to pre-register your interest here.
2. See a free installation
This year, the Sydney Festival is an all-Australian affair so what better way to spend Australia Day than by checking out some free art installations?
3. Attend the Invasion Day rally, The Domain
This January 26 marks 233 years since British imperialism arrived and began the colonial occupation that led to the creation of Australia. Subsequently, Gadigal people are inviting us to rally at Djarrbarrgalli, known as the Sydney Domain, to mark invasion day 2021.
Aunty Rhonda Grovenor Dixon says: ”Our sovereignty has never been ceded. On this platform, we can come together to unite and make 2021 a year when we start to see real change. 2020 been full of crisis and pain, first with fires, then with the pandemic. Join us at Djarrbarrgali for healing, for resistance, this will be our year.”
4.WugulOra Morning Ceremony, Barangaroo Reserve
On the morning of January 26, a smoking ceremony takes place at the Headland at Barangaroo Reserve to honour and recognise the survival of the world’s oldest culture. Dancers and singers will also deliver memorable performances, including the Koomurri Aboriginal Dancers and the national anthem will be sung in both English and Eora.
Due to Covid, you will need to pre-register your interest here. The event is free to attend.
5. Australia Day, Darling Harbour
For the biggest festivities in Sydney on Australia Day, look no further than Darling Harbour. There’ll be DJs, roving entertainment, classic Aussie movie screenings, five water slides for little and big kids to enjoy and a summer BBQ by Brazas in Tumbalong Park running from 12pm to 8pm.
There’s much more happening in Darling Harbour, so head over here to get all the info.
6. Shuck Oysters, Chippendale
One oyster, one dollar. That’s right, at Handpicked Cellar Door on Australia Day you can book a spot to shuck and eat as many oysters as you can, or until stock runs out. And each oyster shucked will cost you just the $1.
Reserve your spot here.
7. Australia Day Picnic, Lane Cove
Have a picnic at The Canopy in Lane Cove with live music by locals as well as more film screenings. Or, check out another of Sydney’s parks or gardens for a picnic of your own.