National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration Event

Partners and co-hosts from across the region invite you to join us for a National Indigenous Peoples Day celebration event on Friday, June 20, 2025.

We are grateful to gather on the traditional Lands of the Lekwungen-speaking Peoples, the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations for this annual celebration.

Enjoy Indigenous heritage, culture, food and music with online learning, workshops, activities and opportunities for connection.

Hay’sxw’qa si’em, ƛ̓eeko ƛ̓eeko, heartfelt thanks to the Elders/Old Ones/Knowledge Keepers and all the partners, vendors and suppliers who make these events possible.

Admission

Everyone is welcome, and admission is free.

School registration

We welcome all schools! 

Advance registration is required to ensure everyone’s safety and to manage capacity. All educators wishing to bring their schools or classes must register by Friday, June 13. For questions please email Katie Gaetz, curriculum coordinator, Na'tsa'maht Indigenous Education, Sooke School District. Shortly after your registration has been received, you will receive an email with further details regarding transportation and the day's schedule of activities.

Register your class today!

Parking

Limited parking is available. Please consider taking public transit or walking or cycling to Royal Roads along the Galloping Goose Regional Trail. Accessible parking will be available for those with a valid permit and shuttle service between campus parking lots and the event site will be available for the duration of the event.

Schedule of events

10 a.m.

• Lekwungen Traditional Dancers and Singers performance at the shore stage

10:30 a.m.

• Welcome ceremony

10:40 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 (details to come)
• Traditional plant walks on Charlie's Trail along Colwood Creek with Cowichan Elder Kenneth Elliott

All Day

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

3 p.m.

• Closing ceremony

*Schedule subject to change