September 30 is National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (also known as Orange Shirt Day). The day honours the children who never returned home from residential schools, along with their families and communities. A few opportunities are popping up around Calgary where you can participate in supportive, educational, and community-building events.
Find A Day to Listen here (sponsored by the Gord Downie and Chanie Wenjack Fund). For extra resources, you can find the official Orange Shirt Day site here. If you’re interested in specific resources for young children, check out CBC Kids.
Banff Sunshine Village | September 12 – 13, 2026
Mark the occasion early with traditions of the Stoney Nakoda First Nation and the Watäga Dancers and Singers at Banff Sunshine Village. Through traditional song, dance and storytelling, guests can learn more about Stoney Nakoda culture. Performances are 40 minutes long outside the Trappers and the Centennial Day Lodge and are included with a sightseeing ticket. They will run at 2 PM and 3 PM.
Calgary Library – Select Locations
Select libraries will be open from 12 – 5 on Truth and Reconciliation Day to explore the Indigenous Placemaking installations by artists connected to Treaty 7. You can also register for a Conversation with Maria Campbell at Central Library from 5 – 7:30 PM, and celebrate MĂ©tis culture with food and cultural performances. This free event explores MĂ©tis history, resilience, truth, and reconciliation.
The Confluence
You can mark the day at The Confluence with free entry, walking tours, and storytelling. The parkland will fill with tipi lodges representing each of the Treaty 7 Nations and partner organizations, with programming designed for cultural exchange — from storytelling with Elders to Indigenous games and craft demonstrations. The site will also host the City of Calgary Orange Shirt Day Program from 9 – 10:30 AM.
Heritage Park
Head to Heritage Park for Dancing in Their Honour: Truth & Reconciliation Powwow. This gathering, from 4 – 9 PM, is held in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The powwow will feature Indigenous dancers and drum groups, Indigenous vendors, food, and opportunities for visitors to gather, learn and reflect. Anyone who self-identifies as Indigenous at the front gates of the Park will get free admission. This will be a day filled with ceremony, storytelling, and cultural experiences.
National Music Centre
Head to Studio Bell on National Day of Truth and Reconciliation and receive FREE admission. You can explore the Speak Up! exhibit, along with five floors of history and interactive displays. Join JUNO Award-winning artist Jeremy Dutcher at Studio Bell, in honour of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, for an evening concert.
Olympic Oval Skate
On September 30, 2026, head to the Oval to skate from 2 – 5 PM. Wear your orange shirt and honour the children who never came home.
Pokaiks Commemorative Walk
Mark your calendars and be a part of a meaningful Orange Shirt Day Event that honours the past and builds bridges for the future. Pokaiks Reconciliation Walk and Event 2026 is a tribute to survivors of the Residential School System and Sixties Scoop, held annually on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The walk will begin at 11 AM at Peace Bridge and continue to Contemporary Calgary. The walk is followed by the opening ceremonies, performances, artisans, and activities. The event is free, and all are welcome.
Werklund Centre (Formerly Arts Commons)
Head to Werklund Centre (formerly Arts Commons) for the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation. They will be hosting an Indigenous Makers Market (11 AM – 5 PM), a Powwow Showcase (5 PM), and an Elder Story Project (7 – 9 PM). The event is free, but registration is required for the Elder Story Project.
Do you know of more events happening in your community to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation? Send them to calgary@familyfuncanada.com.
On September 30, wear your orange shirt and find a way to honour those who never came home.
