Celebrate First Nations youth culture at the GATHAA NAIDOC Next Gen Youth Market this August 2026. Held at Jack Morgan Park in Coolum Beach on the Sunshine Coast, this free, family-friendly event features youth market stalls, live music from Fred Leone and Grace Alexander, hands-on craft workshops, bushfood cooking, and traditional Indigenous games, offering a wonderful day out for local kids and parents.
GATHAA NAIDOC Next Gen Market 2026
GATHAA means “come together” and the GATHAA NAIDOC Next Gen Youth Market is an invitation to the whole community to gather, create, and celebrate First Nations youth culture. Deadly, fresh, and entirely mob-powered, the Next Gen Market is where young First Nations people share their art, music, dance, storytelling, products, and big ideas with the community.
The day will feature youth market stalls, live music and performances from Fred Leone, Grace Alexander, and emerging First Nations artists, arts and craft workshops, bushfood cooking demonstrations, traditional Indigenous games, a didgeridoo circle, weaving circle, and the chance to meet First Nations mentors and creatives.
Whether visiting to shop, learn, support young entrepreneurs, or simply spend the day connecting with community, there is something for everyone. This is a free, family-friendly, mob-led event that welcomes everyone to experience First Nations culture, creativity, and next-generation youth energy.
First Nations young people aged 8 to 21 are also invited to get involved by performing, running a stall, showcasing artwork, or participating behind the scenes. Participants will also have the opportunity to connect with the GATHAA Next Gen Mentoring Program, linking young people with First Nations artists, performers, creatives, and entrepreneurs to build confidence and develop new skills. Expressions of interest can be submitted via the link below.
The GATHAA Next Gen Youth Market is proudly supported through funding and partnership from organisations committed to creating opportunities for the next generation of First Nations young people.
Plan your visit
When: Sunday 23rd August 2026, 9am – 2pm
Where: Jack Morgan Park, 5 Elizabeth St, Coolum Beach 4573
Cost: Free entry
More information: here
