June marks National Indigenous History Month in Canada, with June 21 recognized as National Indigenous Peoples Day. This month offers a meaningful opportunity to honour the cultures, contributions, and enduring strength of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. It is also a time to reflect on the histories that have long been ignored or misrepresented and to learn from the voices and experiences of Indigenous communities whose lands we now call home.
Discover an Indigenous event near you!
Celebrated on the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, National Indigenous Peoples Day is rooted in traditions that have brought communities together for generations. Officially established in 1996 and renamed in 2017, this day is recognized nationwide and is a statutory holiday in the Northwest Territories and Yukon. It serves as an official reminder to acknowledge the deep cultural heritage and valuable contributions of Indigenous Peoples in Canada.
Participating in events and deepening our understanding of Indigenous histories and present-day realities is one way to address ongoing injustice. Below are some of the ways you can take part:
“National Indigenous Peoples Day is rooted in traditions that have brought communities together for generations.”
Indigenous Peoples Day: Paddle Carving with Jody Sparrow
In celebration of National Indigenous Peoples Day, visitors are invited to experience a drop-in paddle carving demonstration and conversation with Jody Sparrow, a respected Coast Salish artist from the Musqueam Nation. Renowned for reviving traditional canoe and paddle designs, Sparrow brings deep cultural knowledge and craftsmanship rooted in generations of Coast Salish artistry. This event highlights the significance of cultural continuity, artistic expression, and community gathering in honour of Indigenous heritage and the summer solstice.
- Location: Museum of Vancouver, 1100 Chestnut Street, Vanier Park in Kitsilano, Vancouver, BC
- Date: Saturday, June 21
- Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Free Entrance
National Indigenous Peoples Day – Langley
Join the Lower Fraser Valley Aboriginal Society at Douglas Park Spirit Square for a lively National Indigenous Peoples Day celebration. Visitors can enjoy cultural performances, traditional foods, family-friendly games, and a vibrant marketplace featuring local Indigenous vendors. This community event offers a joyful and welcoming space to experience and honour Indigenous heritage and traditions.
- Location: Douglas Park Spirit Square, 20511 Douglas Crescent, Langley, BC
- Date: Saturday, June 21
- Time: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Free Entrance
National Indigenous Peoples Day Block Party
Celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day at a community block party outside the Carnegie Community Centre, in collaboration with the City of Vancouver. The event will feature cultural performances, artist showcases, hands-on activities, local vendors, and giveaways, all set in a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.
- Location: Carnegie Community Centre, 401 Main St, Vancouver, BC
- Date: Saturday June 21
- Time: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Free Entrance
National Indigenous Peoples Day – Burnaby
Join the community at Civic Square in Burnaby for a free, family-friendly celebration honoring National Indigenous Peoples Day through music, dance, storytelling, and hands-on activities. The event features live performances, an Indigenous artisan market, traditional games, and interactive art inspired by the work of Amanda Hugon.
- Location: Civic Square, 6100 Willingdon Ave, Burnaby, BC
- Date: Saturday June 21
- Time: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Free Entrance
Surrey’s National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration & Wellness Event
Head to the Bill Reid Millennium Amphitheatre in Surrey for a free afternoon of cultural sharing through music, dance, art, and storytelling led by the sǝmyámǝ (Semiahmoo), q̓ic̓əy̓ (Katzie), and q̓ʷɑ:n̓ƛ̓ən̓ (Kwantlen) First Nations. This event offers a chance to recognize and honor Indigenous Peoples’ past, present, and future while sharing rich cultural traditions with the community.
- Location: Bill Reid Millennium Amphitheatre: 17728 64 Ave, Surrey, BC
- Date: Saturday June 21
- Time: 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Free Entrance
National Indigenous History Month at VIFF
Celebrate Indigenous storytelling at the VIFF Centre with a curated selection of films by Indigenous creators. Through powerful stories and unique perspectives, this series explores culture, connection to land, and self-determination.
- Location: VIFF Centre, 1181 Seymour St, Vancouver, BC
- Date: Thursday, June 20 – Saturday, June 22
- Time: 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Free admission for Indigenous-identifying patrons
