June 21 marks both the Summer Solstice and National Indigenous Peoples Day. The Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year, has long been a day of cultural celebration for Indigenous communities, and in 2017 it was officially named National Indigenous Peoples Day in Canada.
Amiskwacîwâskahikan, also known as Edmonton, is located on Treaty 6 Territory, and home to the second largest Indigenous population in Canada including the Cree, Saulteaux, Blackfoot, Sioux and Métis People. Everyone is invited to celebrate and learn more about the history and culture of our city’s rich Indigenous population by attending one of the great events below.
National Indigenous Peoples Day Events in Edmonton:
Mill Woods Wahkohtowin Family Night
June 19 | Celebrate Indigenous cultures, learn new skills, and connect with community at the Mill Woods Wahkohtowin Family Night at Jackie Parker Park! All are welcome at this FREE family-friendly event that includes a light dinner, flute playing, bannock making on the fire, and indigenous games.
Bent Arrow National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration
June 20 | Join Bent Arrow Traditional Healing Society to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day. The 7th Annual Culture Camp will include opportunities for teaching, entertainment, delicious food, crafts, and traditional games!
Night Market & Entertainment Showcase at River Cree
June 20-22 | Don’t miss Canada’s largest outdoor & indoor Indigenous Market at River Cree Resort and Casino! This exciting Night Market experience is open to all ages, featuring 70+ First Nation & local artisans & vendors, 6+ food trucks, spectacular live entertainment, and a Kids Zone with face painting and balloon artists. Admission is free.
Indigenous Peoples’ Day Good Neighbours’ BBQ in Leduc
June 21 | Everyone is welcome to join the City of Leduc, Creating Hope Society, Santa’s Helpers, and the Leduc Boys and Girls Club for the Good Neighbours’ BBQ in celebration of National Indigenous Peoples’ Day. This community gathering will include a community walk, medicine teachings and other activities in the park, learning opportunities with Knowledge Keeper Joeanne Swampy, and complimentary hot dogs and drinks.
TELUS World of Science – Edmonton
June 21 | Take advantage of the Indigenous Peoples Day school holiday and enjoy a day of cultural learning at the TELUS World of Science – Edmonton. The Tipi & Trapper tent raising will begin outside at 8:00 AM, followed the Lighting of the Quilliq, an Indigenous Vendors Market, storytelling, live dance and music performances, and a FREE barbeque from 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM. The Science Centre opens at 9:00 AM with more Indigenous activities & performances throughout the Science Centre.
Art Gallery of Alberta
June 21 | Enjoy FREE admission (by donation), plus free activities, performances, films, and more during National Indigenous Peoples Day at the Art Gallery of Alberta. Everyone is invited on June 21 to join Alaynee Goodwill-Littlechild on a tour of Reciprocity Garden| ᐋᐧᐦᑰᐦᑐᐃᐧᐣ (wâhkôhtowin) and learn the Cree names for the flora and fauna living in the garden, or enjoy a Healing Through Ribbons talk and ribbon skirt lapel pin activity with Veronica McRea.
CNFC Indigenous Peoples Celebration in Borden Park
June 21 |This incredible event in Borden Park includes fun arts & crafts, tipi teachings, Indigenous storytelling & games, powwow dancing, metis jigging, hand drumming, live music, food trucks, and more.
Town of Devon National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration
June 21 | Celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day in Devon with a fun-filled afternoon of cultural performances, including Métis fiddling and jigging, Inuit throat singing, traditional drumming, powwow dancing, and more. Families can enjoy free bannock and popsicles while exploring storytelling, art, and local craft vendors in a welcoming community atmosphere!
Indigenous Peoples Day at Fort Edmonton Park
June 21 & 22 | In recognition of National Indigenous Peoples Day Fort Edmonton Park will offer a full day of activities, performances, and demonstrations on Saturday, June 21 and Sunday, June 22. Celebrate the culture, heritage, and languages of Indigenous Communities through unique activities each day like a Smudge Blessing, Grass Dance, Métis Roots Music, Drumming, Hoop Dancing, Medicine Teachings, Bustle Dance, and more!
