June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day in Canada. Coinciding with the Summer Solstice on June 20—the longest day of the year—it has long been a time of cultural celebration for Indigenous communities. The day was officially recognized with its current name in 2017.
Amiskwacîwâskahikan, also known as Edmonton, is located on Treaty 6 Territory, and is 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.
There are also many places to go for a walk and appreciate Indigenous artworks around our city! Two of our family’s favourites are ᐄᓃᐤ (ÎNÎW) River Lot 11∞ Indigenous Art Park and Tawatinâ Bridge.
Where to Find National Indigenous Peoples Day 2026 Events in Edmonton?
National Indigenous History Month at RAM | Throughout June
Celebrate National Indigenous History Month at the Royal Alberta Museum with special programming that highlights Indigenous voices and experiences. Come learn about the history, heritage, strength, and diversity of Indigenous Peoples and communities in Canada through story time, live presentations and performances, and finger weaving workshops.
CNFC Indigenous Peoples Celebration | June 20
🆓 This incredible event in Borden Park includes fun kids activities, Indigenous storytelling & games, an artisan market, hand drumming, live performances, food trucks, and more!
National Indigenous First Peoples Day 30th Anniversary | June 21
🆓 Enjoy a full day of free family-friendly entertainment at RE/MAX Field! Experience Indigenous traditions, dance, storytelling, music, a Snowbirds demonstration, an eagle release ceremony, and special guests from the Edmonton Oilers. The event closes out with a spectacular fireworks show. Reserve your spot in advance.
Indigenous Peoples Day at TWOSE | June 21
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 by the Lighting of the Quilliq, an Indigenous Vendors Market, storytelling, live dance and music performances, and a FREE barbecue from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM. The Science Centre opens at 9:00 AM with more Indigenous activities & performances. Indigenous People will all be welcomed with free general admission.
National Indigenous Peoples Day & Good Neighbour BBQ | June 21
🆓 Join the City of Leduc, Creating Hope Society, Leduc Arts Foundry, and the Leduc Boys and Girls Club for the Good Neighbours’ BBQ in celebration of National Indigenous Peoples’ Day in Fred John’s Park. This gathering will include a community walk, medicine teachings, traditional dance, art activities, a book corner, vendor booths, face painting, and a free BBQ at noon.
Indigenous Peoples Day at Fort Edmonton Park | June 21
Celebrate the culture, heritage, and languages of Indigenous Communities through unique activities each day like an Opening Ceremony, Smudge Blessing, traditional music and dancing, and more!
Art Gallery of Alberta | June 21
Everyone is invited to partake in a kids’ story hour and indigenous handgames. You can also 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 the newly opened Funny Bone, Back Bone, Wish Bone exhibit by Zoe Anne Cardinal, a Beaver Lake Cree and Métis artist.
Bent Arrow Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration | June 25
🆓 The 8th Annual FREE Culture Camp will include opportunities for teaching, entertainment such as drumming and pow wow dancing, a delicious BBQ lunch, vendor tables, crafts, traditional games and more!
