National Indigenous Peoples Day

Partners and co-hosts from across the region invite you to join us Wednesday, June 21 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day. Enjoy Indigenous heritage, culture, food, music and more!

Schedule of events

10:00 a.m.

• Lekwungen Traditional Dancers and Singers perform as participants arrive

10:15 a.m.

• Welcome ceremony, traditional welcome and opening remarks on the shore of the Esquimalt Lagoon
• Prayer

10:30 a.m.

• Traditional canoe landing protocol practice on the shore of the Esquimalt Lagoon led by Lekwungen (Songhees) Nation Elder Butch Dick

12 p.m.

• Field stage opens for performances
• Traditional plant walks on Charlie's Trail along Colwood Creek with Cowichan Elder Kenneth Elliott and TSAWOUT Elder Earl Claxton Jr.

12:30 to 2 p.m.

• Mini Wall Hanging Workshop with Elder Maxine Matilpi, Library showcase space 

All day

• Canoe challenges
• Children’s field games
• Children's craft tent
• Frybread station
• Food trucks (food & beverages for purchase)
• Vendors market, and more!

3 p.m.

• Closing ceremony