First Night: Blak Day Out

Overview

UPDATE, Friday, May 31, 2024: Due to wet weather forecast for Saturday, June 1, this event has been postponed to Saturday, August 24 in 2024. This article has been updated to reflect that change.

On Saturday, August 24, First Nations artists are firmly in the spotlight at one of Brisbane's must-attend returning gigs. It was back in 2022 that Blak Social debuted Blak Day Out, which has popped up each year since. 2024's run is different, however — it's now called First Night: Blak Day Out, it's free, it's taking place on King Street instead of at The Tivoli, and it's turning into a Bowen Hills street party.

The focus at the all-ages festival remains the same — and also essential — with Blak Day Out celebrating Indigenous sovereignty, music and community, complete with a stellar lineup. Taking to the stage: Emma Donovan, 3% (aka Nooky, Dallas Wood and Angus Field) and Velvet Trip, as well as BADASSMUTHA and The Ancient Bloods.

DJ Kritty will be on the decks at the silent disco, while The First Creatives will be breaking out dance moves and Sam Harrison has live murals to paint.

Falling into 2024's Open Season series of performances focused around The Tivoli and The Princess Theatre, First Night: Blak Day Out kicks off at 3.30pm, running till 9.30pm. Alongside tunes to listen to, you'll also have Indigenous retailers to shop, pop-up bars quenching your thirst and street food stalls tempting your tastebuds.

Lewis Bin Doraho

Top image: Lewis Bin Doraho.