Homeground Festival 2016

Overview

Sydney's biggest celebration of First Nations culture is back this weekend as Homeground 2016 gets into gear.

As in years before, the music and dance line-up is packed. Bands include Arnhem Land acoustic/rock outfit East Journey, chilled out funk-jazz group Trinity Roots and nine-piece army Dubmarine. On the movement front, Queensland collectives Excelsior and NayGayiw Gigi will showcase traditional dance at various locations around the harbour.

Homeground is also running a host of workshops and tours to give festivalgoers a chance to learn about First Nations culture. Introductory classes for all ages in weaving and dance will run over both days, with tours of the harbourside giving a glimpse into the lands and culture of the Gadigal people. A first for the festival is Collisions, a virtual reality experience, which explores Nyarri Morgan's experience of western culture.

The Homeground Art Market will also run again, featuring art, accessories and bush foods from Indigenous artists and growers, while Indigenous hatted chef Clayton Donovan has designed the festival's official menu (although the contents appear to be a closely-guarded secret).

Homeground is free, but the activity bookings suggest things are likely to get crazy. This is definitely an early bird situation.

Images: Prudence Upton and Daniel Boud.