First Nations performers, artists, cultural practitioners, market stallholders, workshop facilitators and food vendors are invited to take part in the 19th annual Big Talk One Fire Festival, with expressions of interest now open ahead of the October 2026 event.
Delivered by UMI Arts, Big Talk One Fire will return to Munro Martin Park, Gimuy/Cairns on Saturday, October 24. Bringing together more than 3,000 people for a free, family-friendly celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts, culture, music and storytelling.
UMI Arts is seeking a dynamic mix of First Nations contributors across the festival program, including main stage performers, market stallholders and workshop facilitators.
Guided by the festival's philosophy — Big Talk = real talking, real listening; One Fire = coming together with the spirit of community — the event continues to provide a colourful welcoming and inclusive platform where culture is shared, stories are told, and connections are made across generations.
UMI Arts artistic director Lisa Michl Ko-manggén OAM said Big Talk One Fire is shaped by the people who take part, creating a space where culture is both celebrated and experienced.
"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."
Now in its 19th year, Big Talk One Fire is a much-loved annual event, presenting an impressive program of live performance, workshops, markets, and food, while supporting First Nations artists and businesses in connecting with audiences and community.
The 2026 festival will again transform Munro Martin Park into a lively cultural gathering place, with bump-in from 9am and programming from 3pm to 9 pm (TBC).
Participants are encouraged to apply now via the portal, which also serves as the central hub for festival updates and information in the lead-up to the event.
Established in 2005, UMI Arts is the peak Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts and cultural organisation for Far North Queensland.
UMI Arts is a not-for-profit company managed by an all-Indigenous Board of Directors. Its mission is to assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in participating in the maintenance, preservation, and protection of cultural identity.
Expressions of interest close on Thursday, the 30th of April, with all applications and information available via the festival participants' portal.
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