Yothu Yindi Foundation to host 25th edition of Garma Festival

The 25th anniversary of the Garma Festival – a landmark celebration of Yolŋu culture in northeast Arnhem Land – is anticipated to attract over 3,500 people.

The sold-out festival hosted by the Yothu Yindi Foundation sees visitors immerse themselves in four days of culture through traditional storytelling, art, song and dance on Yolŋu country at the Gulkula ceremonial site.

Yothu Yindi Foundation Chief Executive Denise Bowden shared “It’s Garma’s 25th anniversary this year, so an extra special occasion for the Yolŋu clans and families of Arnhem Land, and a milestone moment in the life of this major Northern Territory event.”

This year’s theme, ‘Rom ga Waŋa Wataŋu,’ or ‘The Law of the Land, Standing Firm,’ pays tribute to the enduring strength and leadership of Yolŋu elders across generations.

NT Minister for Major Events and Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Marie-Clare Boothby said the Garma Festival is not only a key event on the Territory’s cultural calendar, but also a significant economic driver, attracting visitors from across Australia and around the world.

Minister Boothby notes "as we celebrate 25 years of the Garma Festival, we recognise its contribution to the Territory’s cultural landscape and its vital role in tourism and major events – directly supporting our government’s Rebuilding the Economy 2025 strategy and driving regional growth.

“Events like Garma are central to our government’s commitment to rebuilding the economy and restoring our unique Territory lifestyle. They shine a light on our rich Indigenous cultures while boosting visitation and strengthening regional economies.”

NT Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Steve Edgington added “as Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, I’ll be on the ground at Garma. This festival promotes cultural sustainability, creates real opportunities for Aboriginal Territorians, and strengthens connections across our communities.”

Garma Festival highlights include the daily Bunggul (traditional ceremonial dance) at sunset, Youth Forum, open-air Gapan art gallery, Key Forum, and a packed music and performance program including the long-awaited Garma debut of Xavier Rudd.

The celebration of culture and community continues across the Territory, with the Desert Harmony Festival also launching next Friday in Tennant Creek.

Organised by Barky Regional Arts, the four-day event will combine local and national talent through music, dance, workshops, and arts programming and is designed with locals in mind, aiming to bring together community members and visitors alike.

Operations Director of Barkly Regional Arts, James Winwood added “The festival is a unique meeting place where artists, audiences and communities from across the Barkly and beyond come together to share and connect.”

Both festivals will take place from the 1st-4th August. For more information, visit the Garma Festival and Desert Harmony Festival websites.

Image. Credit: Yothu Yindi Foundation