The Koorie Heritage Trust is gearing up for its annual celebration putting a First Peoples' culture on showcase when the festive seasons gets into swing.
KHT's Koorie Krismas, with their annual market, dance, storytelling, music, kids activities and appearance by Koorie Klause returns to Fed Square in the heart of Naarm on Saturday, December 13.
Trust chief executive and Kulkalgal, Kemer Kemer Meriam man Tom Mosby says the day "brings us all closer together in the Krismas spirit of reconciliation".
More than 30 stalls from a breadth of small businesses and artists will feature at the market for shoppers, while Charlie Needs Braces, The Deans of Soul, The Violet Summers, Isabelle Skye, Sascha Astrid, and Barry Gilson hit the stage for performances, with more names yet to be announced.
For younger ones, free decorating and creative activities plus sport are on offer.
"Koorie Krismas is one of our most loved annual celebrations - a free, family-friendly day where Koorie culture, creativity and joy come together. As we head toward Krismas, it's a wonderful chance to experience the incredible talent of Victorian First Peoples through dance, music, DJ sets, storytelling and our beautifully curated art and craft market," Mr Mosby said.
"Families can get hands-on with workshops, enjoy kids activities, and of course meet the one-and-only Koorie Klaus."
Koorie Klaus, with one of his elves, makes his way to Fed Square for the celebrations each year.
Families can snap a pic with a Polaroid camera doing the rounds on the day.
"This time of year is always special, but celebrating it through a First Peoples lens makes it even more meaningful. It's a moment to centre culture, showcase the vibrant artists, performers and makers in our community, and share their stories with audiences of all ages," Mr Mosby added.
"We invite everyone to come down, connect and be part of a joyful day that brings us all closer together in the Krismas spirit of reconciliation."
Koorie Krismas is just one aspect to KHT's summer programming. From Saturday December 6 through to late February the open-entry 13th Koorie Art Show, featuring more than 140 works - paintings and drawings, larger pieces, weavings, photography and more, returns to the trust. It's joined by the eighth Koorie Art Show for Young Mob.
Tourists are invited to engage with Aboriginal guided walking tours - the Birrarung Wilam Walk, every Monday to Friday sharing First Nations knowledge and history, and ongoing tradition and cultural significance connected to the Birrarung (Yarra River)
