Celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day
June is National Indigenous History Month
June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada, a time to recognize the rich history, heritage, resilience and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis.
It's a time for everyone - Indigenous, non-Indigenous and newcomers - to reflect upon and learn the history, sacrifices, cultures, contributions, and strength of First Nations, Inuit and Metis people. It’s important to keep in mind that First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples each have their own unique histories. And within each group, there are distinct histories.
Indigenous History Month at HPL
Multiple events, dates and locations | see website for full details
June is National Indigenous History Month and June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day, a time to honour the history, heritage and diversity of Indigenous peoples in Canada. Learn and celebrate with HPL’s collections, programs and events.
Indigenous Peoples Day: June 21
The summer solstice is a day that Indigenous peoples around the world have celebrated for thousands of years. The Earth’s northern hemisphere is tilted as close as it gets toward the sun, and we enjoy the longest day of light in the year.
Across the land, First Nations will gather and share in ceremonies and traditions that have been carried out for thousands of years. We gather to celebrate and to thank Mother Earth for her gifts. And we gather to celebrate our languages, cultures and ceremonies, which have persevered and prevailed.
In Canada on June 21st, the summer solstice celebration has become National Indigenous Peoples Day, a day of celebration for the contributions and cultures of Indigenous peoples.
Looking to get involved in Indigenous Peoples Day events? Here’s a look at some of the events going on in the community:
Soaring Spirit Festival & Pow Wow 2026 (multiple dates)
June 19 - 21 | Various times (see website) | Battlefield Park 77 King St. E., Stoney Creek
- Enjoy a weekend of celebrations at the 29th Annual Soaring Spirit Indigenous Festival and Pow Wow in Battlefield Park.
- Celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day, this three-day event features live music, storytelling, and the awesome Native Arts, Craft, Trade & Food Show. Be sure to experience the POW WOW on Saturday and Sunday, with the powerful sunrise ceremonies, incredible dancing, and the sound of the drums. Open to all, it’s a fun and welcoming event for the whole family to explore Indigenous culture and tradition
- For further event information, visit the Soaring Spirit Festival.
City of Hamilton: National Indigenous Peoples Day
June 19, 2026, 1 - 4 pm, West Harbour - James Street Plaza (3 Guise Street, Hamilton)
Join an afternoon of community, culture, and celebration. Everyone is welcome for a free afternoon of culture, community, and celebration featuring:
- Indigenous performances
- Indigenous artisan vendors
- Local food trucks
The meaning behind the visuals
The visual identities for National Indigenous History Month and National Indigenous Peoples Day bring together meaningful symbols and vibrant colours to highlight the richness and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis cultures.
In the centre are three symbols: a feather, a narwhal, and a fiddle. Each represents the distinct cultures of First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities, brought together in a circular flowing composition to reflect the connection between the groups.
Around these central elements, are flowing curved lines and floral motifs which represent the connection to land, water, and all living beings. Dotted patterns symbolize beadwork, a traditional art form shared across First Nations, Inuit and Métis cultures. Stars honour the children who never returned home from residential schools, representing how they are always in our thoughts, even in moments of celebration. Flames represent the enduring strength of knowledge, culture, and resilience, and the shared responsibility to carry these stories forward.
The coloured background design features a sunrise-inspired palette that reflects the summer solstice, a time of celebration for many First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. Warm gradients evoke light, renewal, and possibility. The colour palette used in the white-background version, inspired by the rainbow, celebrates the diversity and richness of Indigenous cultures across Canada.
https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1100100013251/1534874002459