The annual Yarrapay Festival in Yirrkala, East Arnhem, is an immersive experience showcasing a vibrant mix of music, dance, art and traditional practices that celebrate the rich cultural heritage and artistic talents of the Yolŋu people.

With the ethos of 'by the community, for the community', the festival is led by Rirratjingu Aboriginal Corporation and honours the heritage and traditions of the local people.

Held on the Roy Marika Stage at the Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Art Centre, the festival opens with a traditional buŋgul and Welcome to Country, then flows into a full program:

• Music - Showcasing Yolŋu talent from music industry professionals to school groups, alongside national First Nations artists. Past line-ups have included renowned groups such as Yothu Yindi, East Journey, King Stingray, Yirrmal and emerging talents like The Lucky Band.
• Dance - Traditional buŋgul ceremonies performed by Rirratjingu clan members
• Art - Exhibitions drawing on the extraordinary artistic legacy of Yirrkala. On previous occasions there has been collaboration with The Bait Fridge Collective.
• Community activities - The Festival engages the broader community and youth through activities including basketball, football, market stalls. Friday night of the festival being dedicated for the youth with a dance competition. This year the Youth night will be headlined by international superstar Justin Wellington.
• Food - Local tucker served from the Yirrkala store and from food vendors from the Gove Peninsula.

Past festivals have featured the Andrew Gurruwiwi Band, Yirrmal, East Journey, King Stingray and Yothu Yindi. RAC has opened the festival with a special Morning Star Buŋgul, with the event MC'ed by RAC Cultural Ambassador Witiyana Marika along with RAC Emerging Leaders Yirrmala Munungurritj and Yini Maymurru. The Garrangali Band from Baniyala headlined in recent years.