June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada; a time to reflect on the ways that First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples have shaped our collective history, culture and identity. Indigenous Peoples’ valued contributions to the environment, agriculture, the arts, traditions and way of life are celebrated at this time, offering other Canadians and visitors an opportunity to learn and spread awareness. Here are 6 upcoming events that you can be a part of to recognize and commemorate Canada’s Indigenous Peoples in the month ahead…
1. National Indigenous Peoples Day across Canada
This month of celebration is highlighted by National Indigenous People’s Day, every year on June 21. Formerly known as National Aboriginal Day (renamed in 2017), it coincides with the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. This is a special time for many Indigenous peoples across North America to celebrate within their communities. Events are held throughout the country, so keep an eye out for them in your local community calendars. You can also take part by downloading and completing learning activities and games with the Celebrating Indigenous Peoples in Canada – National Indigenous Peoples Day guide (PDF).
2. Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival, Ottawa, ON
The Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival holds celebrations this June, right in the nation’s capital, with many family-friendly events centred on a performance stage and a pow wow. Other highlights include food-centric activities, including an Indigenous Chef Culinary Competition and a culinary arts pavilion, where you can sample Indigenous-inspired cuisine and traditional teas.
3. Adäka Cultural Festival, Whitehorse, YT
In late June, the Adäka Cultural Festival sheds light on the arts and culture of Yukon First Nations people—in fact, adäka in the Southern Tutchone language means “coming into the light”. There are plenty of things to keep visitors busy in this weeklong festival, with cultural workshops, art, songs and storytelling.
4. Great Gathering of First Nations in Mashteuiatsh, QC
The Grand rassemblement des Premières Nations (Great Gathering of First Nations) takes place in July at the beautiful lakefront Uashassihtsh Ilnu Cultural Learning Site, about a 3-hour drive north of Quebec City. There will be pow wow dances and drumming groups, traditional sports competitions, handicraft exhibits, First Nations dishes—including game roasted over an open fire.
5. Montreal First Peoples’ Festival, Montreal, QC
Taking place in August, the Montreal First Peoples Festival highlights Indigenous culture throughout the world in a contemporary, multicultural setting. This weeklong celebration showcases work by local and international Indigenous performers and artists, including documentary filmmakers.
6. Manito Ahbee Festival, Winnipeg, MB
The Manito Ahbee Festival is named after one of the most sacred, traditional indigenous gathering sites in North America. Manito Ahbee is derived from the Ojibwe term roughly meaning “where the Creator sits.” This sets the tone for the festival, where the Manito Ahbee International Pow Wow, the Indigenous Music Awards, a marketplace and trade show, and other events are held. This festival takes place in May, so be sure to mark your calendars for next spring.
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Happy celebrating!
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in May 2019 and has been updated for freshness and/or accuracy.
