Honouring Indigenous History Across Ontario
June 7, 2023
June is Indigenous History Month, and National Indigenous People’s Day will take place on June 21st. Celebrate the diversity of traditions, arts, and customs of First Peoples throughout the province with these local gatherings.
When you attend, remember to review guidelines on each organization’s website and respect cultural protocols. Some ceremonies may not allow photography.
Oakville
National Indigenous People’s Day events, June 21
Join Debewin Oakville for Community Acts of Allyship: Bannock Bake-Off at Oakville Museum Grounds. Honour the rich history of Indigenous people in Canada by tasting bannock, a staple of many Indigenous peoples’ diet. Learn more about the treaties of Halton, try a craft, and learn more how you can be an ally in Truth & Reconciliation. Then join for an evening of Fireside Storytelling featuring Indigenous Elder Ma-Nee Chacaby, where you will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn from Ma-Nee’s journey.
Odawa M’nis (Manitoulin Island)
Niibin Giizhigaate-Giizhik, June 21
Join in the Summer Solstice on National Indigenous Peoples Day in Wiikwemkoong and celebrate the Anishinaabek of Odawa M’nis (Manitoulin Island). As the longest day of the year, the summer solstice holds immense cultural and spiritual importance for many Indigenous peoples. The event will feature powwow demonstrations, cultural workshops, musical performances, delicious food – and fireworks to illuminate the summer sky.
Ottawa Region
Mādahòkì Farm Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival, June 21-26
The Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival is back at Mādahòkì Farm – a five-day celebration of agritourism, farm-to-table experiences, and Indigenous perspectives. Enjoy educational and cultural family fun, including a drone show, live entertainment, activities and workshops. Or purchase tickets for the Niriqatigiit Long Table Dinner with Arctic delicacies prepared by renowned chefs and performances by artists like Qattuu & Rise. Mādahòkì, meaning “to share land” in Anishinaabe, also offers a year-round Indigenous marketplace and a sanctuary for Ojibwe Spirit Horses.
Peterborough
Nogojiwanong Indigenous Fringe Festival, June 21 – 25
Nogojiwanong Indigenous Fringe Festival (NIFF) is a 5-day celebration of Indigenous creativity. Welcoming independent performers in theatre, dance, music, and comedy, NIFF promotes artistic growth and cultural knowledge sharing, with the aim of strengthening of Indigenous performing arts. What sets NIFF apart is its lottery-based selection process, ensuring equal opportunities for all participants. And here’s the best part: performers receive 100% of the box office proceeds, supporting their artistic journeys and creative pursuits.
Toronto
Na-Me-Res Pow Wow & Indigenous Arts Festival, June 17 and 18
Na-Me-Res Pow Wow & Indigenous Arts Festival is a free, family-friendly celebration at Fort York. This weekend-long event includes artisans and food markets showcasing handmade items and Indigenous dishes. On June 17, experience the annual Traditional Pow Wow hosted by Na-Me-Res Native Men’s Residence. On June 18, enjoy the Indigenous Arts Festival, a full day of music with contemporary and traditional Indigenous performers, curated by accomplished Mohawk/Tuscarora poet, media producer, and sound artist January Rogers.
Thunder Bay
National Indigenous Peoples Day Pow Wow, June 21
The Annual National Indigenous Peoples Day Pow Wow is a highly anticipated event organized by the National Indigenous Peoples Day Committee and their valued partners. Taking place on the awe-inspiring Anemki Wajiw – Thunder Mountain (Mount McKay), expect to find family activities, crafters, a mouthwatering feast, and dance performances.