Entertainment
25 April, 2026
Creatives sought for 2026 Indigenous event
EXPRESSIONS of interest are now open for performers, artists and creatives to take part in the 2026 ‘Big Talk One Fire Festival’ in Gimuy/Cairns.
Delivered by UMI Arts, the 19th annual festival will return to Munro Martin Park on Saturday 24 October, bringing together more than 3000 people for a free, family-friendly celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts, culture, music and storytelling.
Applications close on Thursday 30 April, with First Nations performers, cultural practitioners, market stallholders, workshop facilitators and food vendors invited to apply through the festival participants portal.
UMI Arts is seeking contributors across the program, including main-stage performers in dance, music and cultural performance; market stallholders offering art, craft and design; workshop facilitators delivering hands-on cultural experiences; and food vendors.
The festival is guided by its philosophy of “Big Talk – real talking, real listening; One Fire –- coming together with the spirit of community”, providing a platform where culture is shared and connections are made across generations.
UMI Arts artistic director Lisa Michl Ko-manggén said the event is shaped by those who take part.
“Big Talk One Fire is a vibrant, welcoming space where First Nations artists and cultural practitioners lead the sharing of culture, inviting the whole community to come together, listen and learn,” she said.
“It’s a colourful and inclusive festival for all ages, a place where stories, music, dance and creativity are shared openly, and where everyone is welcome to be part of that experience.”
The 2026 festival will be at Munro Martin Park.
All applications and information available via the festival participants portal: www.bit.ly/41NH7pr
