National Indigenous Peoples Day takes place on the summer solstice, June 21 and is a special occasion to learn more about the rich and diverse cultures, voices, experiences and histories of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.
According to canada.ca learning about Indigenous Peoples, places and experiences is a step forward each Canadian can take on the path to reconciliation. As organizations continue to plan for Indigenous Peoples Day throughout this month, here are some ways the day is planned to be celebrated in Ontario and other provinces.
Across the country, events will highlight the heritage, history and remarkable achievements of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. Use the interactive map found at canada.ca to find activities happening in your community.
Share your experience on social media by using the #NIPD2022 and #NIPDCanada hashtags.
Amanda Grieves Jingle Dress Creation – MB: The first day of summer (Summer Solstice) there will be a table set up in Maclean Park in Thompson, Man., with two pre-cut dresses. Visitors are invited to sew and attach the jingles to the dress throughout the day. When complete, the two dresses will be presentee to the city as part of reconciliation. This event is sponsored by Manitoba Arts Council
Indigenous Arts Festival at Fort York – ON: Come together June 18 and 19 at Fort York in celebration of National Indigenous Peoples Month. Join for a free community-focused event with traditional and contemporary Indigenous music, dance, artisan and culinary experiences of the First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples living across Turtle Island and Indigenous Communities around the world.
Carnegie Community Centre’s virtual commemoration of Indigenous cultures – BC: Join Carnegie Community Centre’s virtual commemoration of Indigenous cultures and the Downtown Eastside, in partnership with UBC Learning Exchange. This online cultural sharing event will include a welcome from Squamish Chief Bill Williams, performances from Carnegie’s lexwst’i:lem drum group and Children of Takaya dancers, a virtual tour with the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art, and artist talks with the Museum of Anthropology.
Mawiomi National Indigenous Peoples day celebration – NL: Indigenous crafts, art, and food vendors coming together to celebrate each other through the First Light Friendship Center. Registration is free, and a table and chair will be provided to each vendor, but vendors are required to bring any additional materials needed.
National Indigenous Peoples Day Welcome Event – AB: Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity invites visitors to National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebrations Welcome Event hosted by Indigenous Leadership’s Simon Ross, Indigenous Arts’ Janine Windolph, and Îyârhe Nakoda Elder Alice Kaquitts. This is an opportunity to learn more about the significance of the day and the importance of the relationships between Indigenous peoples and Canada. Register in advance:
National Indigenous Peoples Day Twin Flames Musical Event – AB: Join husband and wife duo Twin Flames for a night of indie rock, synth rock and folk-pop delivered through a mix of English, French, and Inuktitut FREE on the Jenny Belzberg stage. Can’t attend the concert in person? Look for a link to watch the livestream on June 21.
At First Light: Tsi Tewentahróhos – ON: Celebrations for National Indigenous Peoples Day and the Summer Solstice will start at 5:59 a.m. on Friday, June 21. A traditional Sunrise Ceremony will be led by local fire keeper, Al McDonald, and local Haudenosaunee Community Member, Fran Davis. After the ceremony, you are then welcome to come inside of THEMUSEUM for music, dancing, and of course – coffee. Spend some time browsing the exhibitions, such as SPECTRUM and Brain: The World Inside Your Head, for a creative start to your day. At First Light: Tsi Tewentahróhos is presented in partnership with the Waterloo Indigenous Student Centre and the City of Kitchener.
National Indigenous Peoples Day – Yukon: The Yukon events encourage everyone to participate. There will be live music, artist demonstrations, traditional food, special ceremonies and much more; running races under the midnight sun; kayak and canoe races; motorcycle event.
KWE! Meet Indigenous Peoples – QB: Highlighting the cultural richness of the 11 nations in Québec; taste culinary specialties, artistic and musical performances, workshops on traditional knowledge, and discussions on the issues and realities affecting Indigenous communities all in the promotion of reconciliation. Runs from June 17 to 21.
Lennox Island First Nation – PEI: Lennox Island is a great destination to learn about Mi’kmaq culture any day. While not promoting a specific National Indigenous Peoples Day event there are many unique experiences that will make any visit enjoyable. Try their bannock and clam bake, quill work on birch bark, or drum making.
