In Canada, June marks more than just the end of the school year — It’s also the month we honour Indigenous history. National Indigenous Peoples Day, celebrated every June 21st around the summer solstice, coincides with National Indigenous History Month. It stands as a vibrant tribute to the rich histories, diverse cultures, and significant contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples across Canada. At Teachers on Call, our in-person and online tutors recognize the importance of learning about our shared history and Indigenous perspectives. Not only is National Indigenous Peoples Day a time to honour past legacies, it fosters a deeper understanding and respect for the ongoing cultural heritage that is woven into the fabric of the nation. It also provides an invitation for Canadians from all walks of life to engage with the traditions and wisdom of Indigenous communities. Yet, it can be intimidating to get started! This is why our tutoring team has prepared a guide to help students and families get involved to commemorate National Indigenous Peoples Day and National Indigenous History Month. Read on!
Celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day during National Indigenous History Month involves recognizing the significance of Indigenous cultures, histories, and contributions, while being mindful of the ongoing challenges faced by Indigenous communities and groups at present time. It provides an opportunity to acknowledge the unique achievements of First Nations, Métis and Inuit in fields as diverse as the arts, agriculture, business and the environment. In this blog, the Teachers on Call online and in-person tutoring service have gathered educational resources and ideas to help students and families engage, learn and further their Indigenous knowledge. This includes attending educational and cultural celebrations in June 2024 as a family or classroom to experience Indigenous art, activities and cuisine. Scroll to the bottom for our list to find an event near you!
Learn About the Three Indigenous Groups
Although these 3 groups share many similarities, they each have their own distinct heritage, language, cultural practices and spiritual beliefs.
The First Nations
The First Nations peoples of Canada are made up of what many people have inappropriately and inaccurately referred to as “Indians” since early European colonization. This error stems directly from Christopher Columbus back in 1492! When he arrived in the Americas, he believed he had reached the Indies (part of the subcontinent of India). It is very unfortunate that this misnomer managed to perpetuate so widely in both the US and Canada. Nevertheless, it’s important to know this origin in studying history, because the name became embedded in all sorts of official language and legal documents that defined their rights and status after Europeans began to settle.
The reality is that the First Nations comprise a diverse array of cultures, languages, and histories from coast to coast. Each is unique, yet they are interconnected through a rich heritage that predates European colonization by thousands of years. There are dozens and dozens of peoples that make up the First Nations, and you’re likely to recognize many of them. The Iroquois, Cree, Okanagan, Anishinaabe, Blackfoot, and Haida are just a few. We also shared the name of a famous First Nations woman for Women’s History Month earlier this year: Edith Monture (1890–1996) from Brantford, Ontario, who became the first Indigenous woman in Canada to become a registered nurse!
Despite the challenges of historical and ongoing systemic inequalities, First Nations communities continue to strive for the preservation and revitalization of their cultural practices, languages, and rights as sovereign peoples. It is also important to note that the Métis and Inuit groups are considered distinct from the First Nations peoples. This is due to their unique cultural, historical, and genealogical backgrounds.
The Métis
The Métis people embody a unique cultural identity that blends Indigenous and European ancestries. Their people originated in the 18th century through the unions of Europeans and First Nations women in what is now called Canada. This fusion created a distinct Métis culture, characterized by its own language called Michif. Their traditions and practices are distinct from those of both their Indigenous and European forebears.
Traditionally, the Métis are known as the "children of the fur trade." The Métis established themselves as formidable negotiators, skilled hunters, and traders, playing a pivotal role in the development of Canada's frontier economy.
Their history is marked by a strong sense of community and resilience, including leading historic resistance movements to defend their rights and land, such as the Red River Rebellion in 1869, the and Northwest Resistances. This time saw the emergence of Métis leader Louis Riel — a man considered a hero to his people and many in Quebec (but an outlaw in the eyes of the Canadian government).
The Canadian Inuit
Like the First Nations peoples, you may have heard them called by an outdated name: Eskimo. Unlike the term “Indian,” however, the origin of the word “Eskimo” is disputed. Regardless of its origin, today the peoples that made up the Arctic Indigenous groups (the Inuit and Yupik) prefer to be identified by their community names.
The Canadian Inuit, traditionally residing in the vast and frigid Arctic regions spanning from the eastern coast of Labrador to the western edges of Alaska, have a rich cultural heritage. Inuit communities are spread across various regions including Nunavut, which is primarily Inuit-governed, the Northwest Territories, and parts of Northern Quebec and Labrador. They have a unique linguistic heritage, predominantly speaking Inuktitut and Inuinnaqtun.
Historically, their survival has been intricately linked to the harsh Arctic climate, relying on subsistence hunting and fishing—both food sources threatened by warming conditions in the arctic circle. Nevertheless, their resilient adaptation to one of the world's most challenging environments is impressive, and the Inuit have worked to protect their rights and lands, influencing policies and governance through organizations like the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, the national representational organization that protects and advances the rights and interests of Inuit in Canada.
Understand the Importance of History and the Journey to Reconciliation
The relationship between Canada’s Indigenous peoples and settlers from Europe have been laden with conflict and tragedies, but as we work to better understand history, we can, perhaps, work towards a better future for all Canadians. That’s why June is an important month for all of us to dedicate to learning and celebration, and June 21 in particular!
There is one other holiday that is important to observe later in the year. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada, observed annually on September 30th, is a day dedicated to remembering and reflecting on the tragic history of the residential school system and its ongoing impacts on First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. This day coincides with Orange Shirt Day, which began as an Indigenous-led grassroots commemorative day to raise awareness of the intergenerational impacts of residential schools.
Five Cool Facts About the Indigenous People of Canada
1 – They gave Canada its name: We could hardly let this one go unremarked, even if it might have been something of an accident or misinterpretation! The name "Canada" itself has Indigenous origins. It is derived from the St. Lawrence Iroquoian word "kanata," which means "village" or "settlement." This term was first used by the French explorer Jacques Cartier in the 16th century.
2 – They have incredible diversity: There are over 70 Indigenous languages reported across Canada.
3 – They founded what is possibly the oldest settlement in North America: The archaeological site at Bluefish Caves, in Yukon, contains evidence that the area was inhabited by humans as early as 24,000 years ago, making it one of the oldest known settlements.
4 – They invented Canada’s other national sport: It’s not just hockey! Lacrosse is considered one of Canada’s national sports, at least in the summer. It was originally developed by Indigenous peoples, specifically the Algonquian tribes, as a field game and was used as training for war.
5 – They played an important part in WWI and WWII: Over 4,000 First Nations men served in World War I, and many more in World War II. They did this despite not being considered citizens of Canada at the time and were not under obligation to fight.
Participate and Attend Indigenous Cultural and Educational Events
Participating in these educational events can help to build bridges and understanding between and within the Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. Find a program or activity near you to connect with Indigenous culture throughout June 2024 as a family or classroom. You can also explore and research how different parts of Canada are celebrating to learn about community customs and traditions. Most events are free of charge, and many are designed particularly for students and school field trips. Some also have virtual options to participate from afar!
Celebrations in Alberta:
TELUS Spark Science Centre National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration
Calgary
Date: Friday, June 21, 2024 from 9:00am - 7:00pm
Location: TELUS Spark Science Centre, 220 Saint George's Drive Northeast, Calgary, AB T2E 5T2
Bring children who love science and math to celebrate the summer solstice and National Indigenous Peoples Day. There is a full day of programming which includes elders sharing stories of the solstice, bannock bite treats, plant music and more. *Registration is free, yet reserving tickets is recommended due to popularity. When presale tickets reach capacity, the science centre still offers complimentary tickets at the door on June 21st - first come, first serve.
Edmonton
TELUS World of Science - Edmonton National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration
Date: Friday, June 21, 2024
Location: TELUS World of Science - Edmonton, 11211 142 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5M 4A1
Enjoy free Indigenous-inspired outdoor activities and performances at the TELUS World of Science - Edmonton. This includes Juno-nominated Cree musician Cikwes, and Indigenous drummer Dezmond Morningchild. *Entry is included with Science Centre admission, free general admission for Indigenous peoples.
Lethbridge
National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration at Fort Whoop-Up
Date: Friday, June 21, 2024 from 11:00am - 5:00pm
Location: Fort Whoop-Up, 200 Indian Battle Rd S, Lethbridge, AB T1J 5B3
Fort Whoop-Up, a historic site, is a replica of the original fort that was built to help visitors experience the lifestyle and cultures in the region in the 1870s–1910s. On June 21st, celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day at Fort Whoop-Up. This all ages, free event, presents an opportunity to take a walk through the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot) Gallery, listen to Napi stories by Blanche Bruised Head, Crafts, and experience immersive video, vendors, food trucks, and an Elder Blessing. *Free admission.
Celebrations in British Columbia:
New Westminster
National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration in Moody Park
Date: Friday, June 21, 2024 from 9:30am - 2:30pm
Location: Moody Park in New Westminster, 600 8th St, New Westminster, BC V3M 3S2
Join this free all-ages celebration hosted in collaboration with the Spirit of the Children Society, Qayqayt First Nation and the City of New Westminster. There will be cultural entertainment, fun activities, arts and crafts, Indigenous vendors and storytelling. *Free admission.
Surrey
Surrey's National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration & Wellness Event
Date: Friday, June 21, 2024 from 3:00pm - 8:00pm
Location: Bill Reid Millenium Amphitheatre: 17728 64 Ave, Surrey, BC V3S 1W8
Check out the National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration & Wellness Event, hosted by Semiahmoo, Kwantlen and Katzie First Nations. Taking place at the Bill Reid Millennium Amphitheatre in Cloverdale, this celebration will include cultural sharing from the local First Nations with teachings and practice through art, music, storytelling, dance and more. *Free admission.
West Vancouver’s National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration
Date: Friday, June 21, 2024 from 4:00pm - 8:30pm
Location: Ambleside Park, 1150 Marine Dr, West Vancouver, BC V7T 1B1
Celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day at this beach with a view of Stanley Park, equipped with a dog park, water park, sports fields & picnic areas. This event will feature Indigenous artists and have activities for children. There will be live music performances and a salmon dinner. Sponsored by the West Vancouver Foundation and the Government of Canada. *Free admission.
National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration at Royal Roads University
Date: Friday, June 21, 2024 from 10:00am - 3:00pm
Location: 2005 Sooke Rd, Victoria, BC V9B 5Y2
Admission is free and schools are invited to attend. Includes traditional opening and closing ceremonies, canoe challenges, food trucks (food & beverage for purchase) and more. Deadline for educators to register students is June 14, 2024. *Free admission.
Whistler
National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration with Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre
Date: Friday, June 21, 2024 - full day programming
Location: Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, 4584 Blackcomb Way, Whistler, BC V8E 0Y3
The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre showcases the two First Nations communities that lived in the Whistler area. On June 21st, participate in Whistler’s authentic Indigenous experience during National Indigenous Peoples Day with a cedar log blessing and live carving, Artist’s Market, weaving demonstrations, storytelling, speaker series, fashion show, comedy show and family craft activities throughout the day. Discover authentic First Nations artwork and keepsakes in the Gallery and Gift Shop, and enjoy Indigenous-inspired cuisine at the Thunderbird Café. *Free admission in partnership with CIBC and programming by the Resort Municipality of Whistler.
Celebrations in Manitoba:
Selkirk
Manitoba Métis Federation National Indigenous Peoples Day Event
Date: Friday, June 21, 2024
Location: Selkirk Park, 486 Eveline St, Selkirk, MB R1A 1E6. Located next to the Marine Museum on 490 Eveline Street (corner of Queen Ave/Eveline St) at the north end of Selkirk on the banks of the Red River.
Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF) has hosted this celebration for 17 years. This event includes a pancake breakfast, BBQ, ceremonies, Red River Métis entertainment, MMF department and affiliate booths and a Red River Métis market.
Winnipeg
Date: Wednesday, June 19, 2024 from 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Location: Winnipeg Art Gallery, 300 Memorial Blvd, Winnipeg, MB R3C 1V1, Muriel Richardson Auditorium
A thought-provoking discussion between Stephen Borys, Director & CEO of WAG-Qaumajuq, and Niigaan Sinclair, Winnipeg Free Press columnist, renowned Indigenous writer, educator, and advocate. At this event, they will discuss critical issues and reflections on reconciliation. This is a supporter event for WAG-Qaumajuq members and donors, and Winnipeg Free Press. *Free entry, RSVP required.
Winnipeg Art Gallery WAG-Qaumajuq on National Indigenous Peoples Day
Date: Friday, June 21, 2024 from 9:00am - 11:00am Hey Cuzzin concert at Broadway Neighbourhood Centre; 11:00am - 11:00pm programming at WAG
Location: Winnipeg Art Gallery, 300 Memorial Blvd, Winnipeg, MB R3C 1V1
A family friendly event filled with Indigenous art and concerts. The schedule starts with Hey Cuzzin concert from 9:00am - 11:00am (Broadway Neighbourhood Centre, 185 Young St, Winnipeg MB R3C 1Y8 ) followed by programming at WAG which includes Truth and Reconciliation Through Art tour, Indigenous Storytelling Through Art tour, Drag Performance in the Muriel Richardson Auditorium, and Grippin Sage Rooftop Dance Party from 7:00pm - 11:00pm. All programming is included with the cost of admission, admission for Indigenous people is always free. Teachers can access WAG-Qaumajuq exhibitions for free with their Manitoba Teachers' Society membership card.
Celebrations in New Brunswick:
Fredericton
National Indigenous Peoples Day Event
Date: Friday, June 21, 2024 from 12:30pm - 3:30pm
Location: New Brunswick Legislative Building, 706 Queen Street; Fredericton, New Brunswick, E3B 1C5
The Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI), Wolastoqey Tribal Council Inc. (WTCI), and MAWIW Council are excited to host their annual National Indigenous Peoples Day event. This celebration involves entertainment by drummers and dancers, readings by Indigenous authors, kids activities including face painting and scavenger hunt, and so much more!
Celebrations in Northwest Territories:
National Indigenous Peoples Day (NIPD) is celebrated as a statutory territorial holiday in the Northwest Territories since 2001.
Yellowknife
National Indigenous Peoples Day Fish Fry & Stage Show
Date: Friday, June 21, 2024 from 12:00pm – 5:00pm
Location: Sombe K’e Civic Plaza, 4910 52 Street, Yellowknife, NT X1A 1B1
The North Slave Métis Alliance (NSMA) annually celebrates National Indigenous Peoples Day (NIPD) on June 21st in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories at the City of Yellowknife's Sombe Ke Civic Plaza in front of Yellowknife City Hall (4807 52 St, Yellowknife, NT X1A 2N4). The NSMA celebrates NIPD by hosting a free-of-charge fish fry and Aboriginal cultural stage show. Invited are Yellowknifers, visitors and performers to enjoy a day of traditional Métis, Inuit and First Nations cultural food, music and dance. The day starts with the elders prayer, Canada's National Anthem and speeches by Aboriginal, Government of Canada and Government of the Northwest Territories dignitaries. The NSMA staff, sponsors and volunteers help with making a day of Aboriginal culture including Métis fiddling, reeling and jigging, Inuit drumming and throat singing, as well as Dene drumming and singing. For cuisine, they will be serving up Great Slave Lake whitefish, bannock, beans, corn-on the-cob with all the fixing and refreshments. These are just some of the traditions available for people to enjoy and take part in. A variety of Aboriginal artists demonstrate and/or sell their art. Booths are set-up throughout the part from dreamcatcher making, painting, beading, drum making, moose hair tufting and carving. *Free admission.
Celebrations in Nova Scotia:
Halifax
Truth and Reconciliation Engagement Event at MSVU
Date: Friday, June 21, 2024 from 10:00am to 1:00pm
Location: Mount Saint Vincent University, McCain Rooms 301 and 302, 166 Bedford Hwy, Halifax, NS B3M 2J6
MSVU is offering a special engagement event open to all members of the community. Hosted by Violet Paul, Special Advisor on Indigenous Affairs, this session will ask a series of questions about the university’s work to advance Truth and Reconciliation. Questions will be posted on displays throughout the event space, and participants will be encouraged to share their responses and reflections in writing (e.g. on sticky notes). There is no formal agenda, attendees can drop in at any point from 10:00am to 1:00pm.
Celebrations in Nunavut:
Iqaluit
National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration with City of Iqaluit
Date: Friday, June 21, 2024 with programming from 12:00pm - 8:00pm
Location:
12:00pm to 1:00pm: Elders Luncheon at the Elders Qammaq - 227 Queen Elizabeth Ii Wy, Iqaluit, NU X0A 0H0
12:00pm to 1:00pm: BBQ with the Iqaluit Fire Department at the Summer Square - 1094 Sinaa St, Iqaluit, NU X0A 0H0
12:00pm to 1:00pm: Concert at the Summer Square
1:00pm to 2:00pm: Elders Bingo at the Elders Qammaq
2:30pm to 5:00pm: Free Turf at the Arctic Winter Games Arena - 2804 Niaqunngusiariaq, Iqaluit, NU X0A 0H0
5:30pm to 8:00pm: Free Skate at the Arnaitok Arena - 901 Nunavut Dr, Iqaluit, NU X0A 0H0
The City of Iqaluit Recreation Department invites the Nunavut community to celebrate National Indigenous People’s Day with a variety of organized events listed above.
Celebrations in Ontario:
National Indigenous History Month Storytelling and Live Music
Date: Saturday, June 22, 2024 from 9:00am - 12:30pm
Location: Aurora Town Park, 60 Wells Street, Aurora, ON L4G 1H1
Learn about Indigenous Storytelling and attend a live music performance by Dave Mowat and Trio happening in Aurora at Town Park.
National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration at Spencer Smith Park
Date: Friday, June 21, 2024 from 5:00pm - 8:00pm
Location: Spencer Smith Park, 1400 Lakeshore Rd., Burlington, ON L7S 1Y2
Celebrate NIPD in a favourite downtown Burlington park, located on the shore of Lake Ontario. Organized by the Urban Indigenous Community in partnership with the City of Burlington, this celebration will include opening intentions and prayer by WhiteEagle, performing artist Amber Kakiishiway, music by Cliff Cardinal and Matt Bergman, Pow Wow exhibition by Jamie Lindsey, tobacco ceremony by WhiteEagle, knowledge-sharing activity tables, as well as Indigenous craft and cultural vendors. *Free event, no registration required.
Date: Friday, June 21, 2024 from 12:00pm - 4:00pm
Location: Wortley Village on the Green, 165 Elmwood Ave E, London, ON N6C 0A8
Visit the Green, a spacious park in the heart of London's Wortley Village for afternoon festivities. The event will feature dancers, food, vendors, and more. Last year's Indigenous Solidarity Day on the Green had a record turnout. For this year, there will be many booths to explore. Be sure to stop by the Museum of Ontario Archaeology for their kid-friendly activities which include dig kits and clay to make pinch pots. *Free admission.
Book Club: Let's Talk National Indigenous History Month
Dates and Locations:
Monday, June 10, 2024 – Burnhamthorpe Library, 3650 Dixie Rd, Ste 101, Mississauga, ON L4Y 3V9
Monday, June 17, 2024 – Burnhamthorpe Library
Tuesday, June 18, 2024 – Sheridan Library, 2225 Erin Mills Pkwy, Mississauga, ON L5K 1T9
Thursday, June 20, 2024 – Lakeview Library, 1110 Atwater Ave, Mississauga, ON L5E1M9
Monday, June 24, 2024 – Burnhamthorpe Library
This June, celebrate Indigenous History Month through Mississauga's library program by reading and discussing poems, short stories and novels, essays, lyrics and scenes written by Indigenous authors. Teachers on Call's online and in-person English tutors love this idea, as we are big fans of reading clubs. *Free to participate.
Date: Wednesday, June 12, 2024 at 6:00pm
Location: Hazel McCallion Central Library, 301 Burnhamthorpe Rd W, Mississauga, ON L5B 3Y3
This Indigenous beading program is offered in partnership with The Indigenous Network for ages 13+.
National Indigenous Peoples Day Concert | Sultans of String "Walking Through the Fire"
Date: Friday, June 21, 2024 from 7:00pm - 10:00pm
Location: Old Town Hall, 460 Botsford St, Newmarket, ON L3Y 1T1
The Town of Newmarket presents a musical multimedia experience honouring National Indigenous Peoples Day, featuring award-winning First Nations, Métis, and Inuit artists performing with Canada’s best world music band Sultans of String. *Free ticket registration here.
Oakville Film Festival: GALA for National Indigenous Peoples Day - The Great Salish Heist
Date: Friday, June 21, 2024 at 7:30pm
Location: Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts, 130 Navy St, Oakville, ON L6J 2Z4, located in downtown Oakville.
Attention film fans, celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day at the OFFA Gala on Friday, 21st June at 7:30pm, held at the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts. This event takes place during the Oakville Film Festival (June 19 - 25, 2025) and features the Eastern Canadian Premiere of "The Great Salish Heist," a unique Indigenous comedy about a First Nations Archaeologist and his crew of misfits.
Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival
Date: Friday, June 21 - Sunday, June 23, 2024
Location: Mādahòkì Farm, 4420 West Hunt Club Road, Ottawa, ON K2R 1H4
Mādahòkì Farm is located in Ottawa’s Green Belt, 15 minutes southwest of downtown Ottawa on West Hunt Club Road between HWY 416 and Moodie Drive.
The Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival takes place at Mādahòkì Farm, Canada’s only Indigenous Agri-tourism destination and working farm. It is also the year-round location for an Indigenous Marketplace selling products made by Indigenous artisans.
Sault Ste. Marie
Algoma University & Scott Wabano: Self Love: Hope, Culture & Strength Workshop
Date: Tuesday, June 11, 2024 from 11:00am - 1:00pm
Location: Algoma University Sault Ste. Marie campus (Speakeasy OR Virtual), 1520 Queen St E, Sault Ste. Marie, ON P6A 2G4
Algoma University’s Sault Ste. Marie campus will host Scott Wabano's presentation on Self Love: Hope, Culture, and Strength. Virtual option is here.
Science North Star Party: Summer Solstice
Date: Thursday, June 20, 2024
Location: Science North, 100 Ramsey Lake Rd, Greater Sudbury, ON P3E 5S9
Science North interactive science centre is hosting a summer solstice Star Party one day prior to National Indigenous Peoples Day featuring a local Ojibwe educator, Will Morin, who will teach students about the connection between a turtle’s shell and the phases of the moon. Tickets available for purchase.
National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration at Science North
Date: Friday, June 21, 2024
Location: Science North, 100 Ramsey Lake Rd, Greater Sudbury, ON P3E 5S9
Science North is hosting an event that includes Indigenous vendors with an opportunity to purchase Indigenous goods (including from Mona's Designs). There will be knowledge sharing activities with local Indigenous groups exhibiting their work on environmental stewardship and climate change. Elements restaurant will feature a special menu that includes fish & chips, and 3 sister soup. There will also be a free public Planetarium showing of Under the Same Stars: Minwaadiziwin at 3:15pm. Visitors will learn about common constellations visible in the night sky and the Anishinaabe stories that define them. *Limited seating available.
National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration at Hollinger Park – Timmins
Date: Friday June 21, 2024 from 12:00pm - 9:00pm
Location: Hollinger Park, 565 Algonquin Blvd E, Timmins, ON P4N 1B7, located at the southeast corner of Algonquin Blvd. and Brunette Road. The park is located on the site of what was once Miller Lake.
The entire Timmins community is invited to this annual celebration in Hollinger Park, organized by the Timmins Indigenous Organizations Committee. This celebration is known for traditional music, food and prizes. *Free to participate.
Na-Me-Res Traditional Pow Wow and Indigenous Arts Festival
Date: Saturday, June 15 - Sunday, June 16, 2024
Location: Garrison Commons outside Fort York National Historic Site - 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 3K9
An annual free community Festival to celebrate Canada's National Indigenous Peoples Day with traditional and contemporary music, dance and culinary experiences at food market booths. *Free to participate.
Sunrise Ceremony at Nathan Phillips Square
Date: Friday, June 21 at 5:30am
Location: 100 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5H 2N1
The City of Toronto will also host a Sunrise Ceremony on Friday, June 21 at 5:30 am to mark National Indigenous Peoples Day at Nathan Phillips Square. All Torontonians are invited to attend this sacred ceremony. *Free to participate.
Native Canadian Centre of Toronto Indigenous Day Celebration
Date: Friday, June 21, 2024 from 11:00am - 9:00pm
Location: Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5J 2G8
One of Canada’s biggest Indigenous Day celebrations with traditional food, live music and a marketplace.
Ontario Science Centre Indigenous Celebration
Date: Saturday, June 8, 2024 from 10:00am to 5:00pm
Location: Front Entrance, Ontario Science Centre, 770 Don Mills Rd., North York, ON M3C 1T3
Bring students to celebrate Indigenous History Month at the Ontario Science Centre with a full day of family-friendly presentations, activities, films and more. This is a completely free event, and does not require a regular Science Centre admission fee. *Parking and exhibit hall access is not included. *Free admission.
Indigenous Community Concert | Sultans of String "Walking Through the Fire"
Date: Monday, June 17, 2024 from 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Location: Federation Hall, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, N2L 3G1
In honour of National Indigenous History Month and National Indigenous Peoples Day, the Office of Indigenous Relations at the University of Waterloo is hosting an Indigenous Community Concert. Light refreshments will be provided. Concert is open to the Indigenous campus community and their families of UWaterloo, Indigenous community members of the Waterloo Region, and the broader UWaterloo campus community and beyond. *Free registration here.
Town of Whitby National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration
Date: Saturday, June 8, 2024 from 10:00am to 1:00pm
Location: Celebration Square in front of the Whitby Public Library, Central Library - 405 Dundas Street West, Whitby, ON L1N 6A1.
Leading up to National Indigenous Peoples Day, the Town of Whitby will be hosting a special event on Saturday, June 8, 2024 that includes: All Nations Youth Drum Group, storytelling and singing by Kim Wheatley and activities. *Free to participate.
Celebrations in Saskatchewan:
Saskatoon
Rock Your Roots: Walk for Reconciliation
Date: Friday, June 21, 2024, meet at 10:00am, walk begins 10:30am and includes a 40 - 60 min route
Location: Victoria Park, Spadina Crescent West in Saskatoon's King George neighbourhood
Reconciliation Saskatoon invites everyone in the community to get involved as organizers, volunteers, community investors, and participants. This walk is meant to honour Residential School Survivors, as well as demonstrate our collective commitment to reconciliation. After the walk, the Saskatoon Indian Métis Friendship Centre hosts a celebration of National Indigenous Peoples Day.
Celebrations in Yukon
Date: Friday June 21, 2024
Location:
Carcross - Carcross Commons, Yukon Rd, Carcross, YT Y0B 1B0
Carmacks - Location varies every year
Dawson City - Dänoja Zho Cultural Centre, 1131 Front St, Dawson City, YT Y0B 1G0
Haines Junction - Da kų "Our House" Cultural Centre, 280 Alaska Hwy, Haines Junction, YT Y0B 1L0
Mayo - Location varies every year
Teslin - Teslin Tlingit Heritage Centre, Km 1248, Alaska Hwy, Teslin, YT Y0A 1B0
Whitehorse - Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre, 1109 Front St, Whitehorse, YT Y1A 5G4
Hosted annually on June 21st, the Yukon community is invited to this national celebration to enjoy live music, artist demonstrations, traditional food, special ceremonies and much more. National Indigenous Peoples Day is celebrated in communities across Yukon. Locations listed above.
Whitehorse
Date: Friday June 28, 2024 - Monday July 1, 2024
Location: Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre, 1109 Front St, Whitehorse, YT Y1A 5G4
The festival began in 2011 and features an exciting variety of events that includes traditional and contemporary music, dance, drumming, storytelling, film screenings, daily artist demonstrations, art and traditional craft workshops, cultural presentations, an art gallery and more.
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We hope you find this information helpful to support further learning about National Indigenous History Month. You can stay involved with programming and activities, and follow along on social media by using the hashtags #NIHM2024 and #NIPD2024.
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