The City of Toronto celebrates National Indigenous Peoples Day with the return of the Indigenous Arts Festival at Garrison Commons outside the Fort York National Historic Site. This two-day festival and special event features the Na-Me-Res Pow Wow, along with vibrant and inclusive festivities, plus craft and food vendors. People of all ages are welcome to enjoy the dynamic performances, storytelling, dance, and more. Better yet, this festival is family-friendly with FREE admission!
Experience Mino Bimaadiziwin (A Good Life) at the annual Indigenous Arts Festival and Na-Me-Res Pow Wow to honour National Indigenous History Month, held throughout June. Furthermore, this free festival offers families the opportunity to learn about and reflect on the diversity of First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples across Toronto, as well as the entirety of Turtle Island.
The City of Toronto Indigenous Arts Festival is a Vibrant Showcase of Indigenous Culture and Creativity!
Celebrate arts and culture at the Indigenous Arts Festival and Na-Me-Res Pow Wow Traditional Pow Wow in recognition of Canada’s National Indigenous Peoples Day. Featuring dancing, drumming and performances, everyone is welcome to experience the richness of our country’s rich Indigenous traditions.
This free festival embraces Indigenous culture and heritage with two days of events, featuring live music and dance performances. Throughout the weekend, the line-up showcases many renowned and emerging Indigenous artists and performers. In addition, visitors can explore the festival’s vibrant artisan market, which features handmade crafts and stunning artwork by Indigenous artisans. Also, don’t miss stopping by the Food Market to taste some delicious Indigenous dishes and delicacies, such as bannock!
Indigenous Arts Festival Schedule — Friday, June 20
Experience the traditional and contemporary music, dance, artisanal and culinary experiences of our area’s Indigenous Peoples at the Indigenous Arts Festival and Na-Me-Res Pow Wow. The festival kicks off on Friday with a full day of activities, including educational opportunities, tours, film and visual art, plus sport, dance and music. You’ll have the chance to learn, participate, and connect. Try your hand at lacrosse, traditional dances, or dive into craft workshops and other hands-on cultural activities.
Visitors are invited to walk a path through cultural zones based on the Seven Grandfather Teachings. These are the guiding principles in Anishinaabe (Ojibwe) culture, each emphasizing the importance of living a good life in harmony with other people and also with the natural world.
Then, in the evening, everyone can enjoy live music, song and dance performances by talented emerging Indigenous artists, including JUNO award winner Shub. Be sure to browse the open-air artisan market and celebrate Indigenous culinary traditions by savouring traditional dishes at the Food Market.
Friday Schedule:
- 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Storytelling, Art, Lacrosse, Tours, Dancing & Films
- 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Artisan & Food Markets
- 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Indigenous Arts Festival Concert
Indigenous Arts Festival Schedule – Saturday, June 21
On Saturday, the community comes together with Toronto’s Native Men’s Residence for the main event, the Na-Me-Res Traditional Pow Wow. All guests are encouraged to sing, dance and honour Indigenous cultures together! The Grand Entry begins at noon, beginning with Grass Dancers, followed by a Flag Song, Opening Prayers, Veteran’s Song, Drum Roll Call and Dance Exhibitions.
Additionally, ongoing cultural activities continue throughout the day and evening, including craft and food vendors, as well as information booths. Lastly, the evening comes alive with a spirited live concert featuring award-winning contemporary Indigenous musicians.
Saturday Schedule:
- 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Na-Me-Res Pow Wow
- 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Artisan & Food Markets
- 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Indigenous Arts Festival Concert
Note: This event takes place rain or shine, so be sure to dress for any weather.
The City of Toronto supports the Indigenous Arts Festival and Na-Me-Res Pow Wow in partnership with founding partners, the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and Na-Me-Res.
Expect a day filled with culture, connection and celebration — find out more here!
City of Toronto: Indigenous Arts Festival & Na-Me-Res Pow Wow
Date: June 20-21, 2025
Time: Friday-Saturday 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Venue: Garrison Commons, Fort York National Historic Site
Address: 250 Fort York Blvd., Toronto
Website: www.toronto.ca
Celebrate our city with the full list of Festivals in Toronto here!
