Here Are The Invasion Day 2024 Events Happening Near You

January 26 is a date etched in the history of Australia, marking the colonisation of this vast land.

For First Nations people, it signifies more than just a historical event; it encapsulates the grief, heartache, and enduring pain inflicted upon generations. The day serves as a stark reminder of the profound impact colonisation has had on Indigenous communities.

However, amidst the shadows of sorrow, January 26 is also a moment of recognition—a moment to acknowledge the ongoing survival of the world's oldest existing culture. It's a day that demands a deeper understanding of the First Nations' struggle, making participation in Invasion Day events an act of solidarity.

In the spirit of walking the walk, we’ve rounded up a guide to Invasion Day events across Australia, and encourage you to not only be informed this January 26, but actively participate in commemorating and standing in solidarity with First Nations people.

We will continue to update as events pop up.

Eora/Sydney:

• Dawn Reflection: A reflective ceremony at Circular Quay from 5:20 am, with the Sydney Opera House lit up with Aboriginal artwork.

• Invasion Day 2024 March: Rally at Belmore Park from 9:30 am, followed by a march through Sydney CBD. A simultaneous march in Newcastle starts at Customs House, leading to the AwabaMi Festival at Foreshore Park.

• The WugulOra Ceremony: Broadcasting from Barangaroo Reserve at 7:30 am on NITV, featuring a smoking ceremony, dance, and language.

• Yabun Festival: Celebrating over 20 years at Victoria Park from 10 am to 6 pm, with live music, market stalls, panel discussions, children's activities, and performances.

• Blak Powerhouse: Powerhouse Museum collaboration from 5 pm, turning a day of sorrow into a celebration of power and positivity, with performances from the likes of Maanyung, Mi-kaisha, Rona, Miss Kaninna, Becca Hatch, 3% and JK-47, as well as “surprise special guests”.

Boorloo/Perth:

• Invasion Day 2024 Protest: Rally at Forrest Chase from 12 pm, emphasising COVID-safe practices.

• Birak Concert: Annual concert by the City of Perth at Supreme Court Gardens from 3:30 pm.

Ngunnawal Country/Canberra:

• Sovereignty Day Rally: Held at Garema Place and organised by the Aboriginal Tent Embassy, the event will commence at 9:30 am.

Tarndanya/Adelaide:

• Mourning in the Morning: Reflective event at Elder Park from 8 am featuring a smoking ceremony and performances by First Nations artists.

• Survival Day March 2024: Starting at Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga at 12:30 pm.

Meanjin/Brisbane:

• Invasion Day Rally: Kicks off at 9 am at Queens Gardens, followed by a march to Musgrave Park.

• We Have Survived!: Event at Sunshine Coast City Hall from 9 am to 1 pm.

Naarm/Melbourne:

• Dawn Service: Commencing at Kings Domain Resting Place, Linlithgow Avenue at 5 am.

• Pilk Purriyn Truth Telling: From 5:30 am to 7 am at Cosy Corner Beach, featuring truth-telling and a smoking ceremony in partnership with Surf Coast Shire Council.

• Invasion Day 2024 Protest: Rally at 10 am at Victorian Parliament, marching to Flinders St Station.

• Our Survival Day: Event at The Briars from 11 am with performances by Christine Anu, Jalgany, and Kaiit, along with food stalls and markets.

• Balit Nurred/Share the Spirit Festival: At Sidney Myer Music Bowl starting at 11:30 am.

Garramilla/Darwin:

• Smoking Ceremony: Larrakia families at Darwin Waterfront lagoon.

• Invasion Day Protest: Civic Park (Civic Square) from 8:30 am.

Nipaluna / Hobart”

• Street March: 11:15 am – Depart TAC (198 Elizabeth Street)

• Rally: 12:00 pm meeting at Parliament Lawns

Limilinaturi / Devonport

• Street March: From 11:30 am departing from Tulaminikali Health Service (106 Best Street)
  Rally: From 12:00 pm in Market Square (behind Paranaple Centre)