Celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day
On June 21, National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrates the rich cultures, heritage, and enduring contributions of Indigenous Peoples across Canada. For generations, Indigenous communities have marked the summer solstice—the longest day of the year—as a time to honour life, connection, and tradition. In 1996, this day was officially recognized by the Government of Canada, but its significance has long been felt by First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. The summer solstice represents not just a seasonal turning point, but a spiritual and cultural one, offering a moment to gather, reflect, and celebrate.
Edmonton is proud to be home to the second-largest Urban Indigenous population in the country. This thriving community includes artists, Knowledge Keepers, musicians, dancers, makers, and entrepreneurs whose work continues to shape the cultural fabric of the region. National Indigenous Peoples Day is a chance for everyone—Indigenous and non-Indigenous—to come together in the spirit of learning, respect, and celebration.
Fort Edmonton Park is honoured to host a weekend of programming on June 21 and 22, dedicated to celebrating the culture, heritage, and languages of First Nations communities. Visitors will be invited to engage with traditions that have been practiced for millennia and gain deeper insight into the diverse ways Indigenous peoples continue to share knowledge, art, and ceremony. The weekend will begin with an opening ceremony at 10:00 a.m. on June 21, held at the front of the Indigenous Peoples Experience. This special gathering will include a smudge led by Elder Marjorie Wright, offering a meaningful space for spiritual cleansing and collective reflection. Guests will also be welcomed by Evert Poor, Indigenous Narratives Supervisor, whose work is central to ensuring that Indigenous stories are shared with authenticity, respect, and care throughout the park’s programming.
Live performances throughout the weekend will offer powerful displays of dance and music. Julion Pisimohkwew will share the Grass Dance, a style that reflects movement through nature and connection to the land. Wapi Muskwa, also known as Shania Morin, will bring the elegance and meaning of both Jingle Dress and Fancy Shawl dancing, traditions often tied to healing and womanhood. Tyson Frencheater will take the stage with a dynamic Bustle Dance performance that blends strength, rhythm, and story. Alicia Cardinal’s Hoop Dance will weave together movement and storytelling in a mesmerizing performance that reflects balance and unity. Each artist brings not only talent but cultural significance to their performance, offering audiences a deeper understanding of the traditions they represent.
Interactive learning opportunities will also be available. Jaynine McCrae and Connie Kanayok McCrae will share Inuit tabletop teachings alongside traditional drumming, offering insight into Inuit ways of knowing. Chantelle Hurshman Gray of Maskwa Medicines will guide sessions on plant relatives and traditional healing, exploring the relationships between the land and wellness.
Visitors can also support local Indigenous artisans and creators through the presence of I.A.M Collective, an all-female group of Indigenous vendors from the Edmonton area. Their booths will feature beautiful handcrafted goods, art, jewelry, and more, each item telling a story of resilience, identity, and cultural pride.
National Indigenous Peoples Day is not just a celebration, but an invitation to listen, to learn, and to stand in solidarity. Fort Edmonton Park welcomes you to join us on June 21 and 22 as we honour the beauty, strength, and spirit of Indigenous communities past and present.