Blog Post

National Indigenous History Month 2026

Posted on by irishinbc
03
Jun

June is National Indigenous History Month This is a month to take time to recognise the rich history, heritage, culture, resilience and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples across Canada. Non-Indigenous people can pursue their journey of allyship through education and reflection.

National Indigenous Peoples’ Day takes place on June 21st, the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. For generations, many First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities have celebrated their cultures, languages and traditions at this time of year. The summer solstice holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for many Indigenous Peoples, marking a time of renewal, connection, and celebration.

To discover ways to engage with National Indigenous History Month and beyond, please check out the resources below.

 

Continue Learning

Discover ways to better understand the complexity of Indigenous histories and experiences and share them with those around you.

  • Listen to podcasts from Indigenous perspectives:
  1. Top Ten Indigenous Podcasts
  2. UVic’s list of podcasts for National Indigenous History Month: IndigenousHistoryMonth/listen
  3. UBC’s list of podcasts re: Indigenous New Media indigenousnewmedia/podcasts

 

Connect with Surrounding Communities:

National Indigenous Peoples’ Day (June 21, 2026) is celebrated across British Columbia with major community gatherings, multi-day festivals and cultural showcases hosted by local First Nations.
Some options for local celebrations this month are as follows, (this list will be updated as new events are announced):

Metro Vancouver Celebrations

  • Burnaby Civic Square: Saturday, June 20, 1:00 pm–5:00 pm Located next to the Bob Prittie Metrotown Library, this event features live music, traditional dancing, storytelling and an Indigenous artisans’ market.
  • Ambleside Park (West Vancouver): Sunday, June 21, 4:00 pm–8:00 pm Held near the ocean canoe Welcome Figure, this gathering honours the Coast Salish languages, music, and cultures.
  • Coquitlam Public Library and Evergreen Arts are also hosting learning opportunities in June, including an Indigenous Plant Walk, a public art speaker session, an exhibition opening event, and a wool weaving workshop. These events offer different ways to learn through land-based knowledge, conversation, art, and hands-on activities.
  • Old Barn Community Centre (UBC): Sunday, June 21. A local day of learning, community sharing, and connecting with Indigenous cultures.

Vancouver Island & Gulf Islands

  • Victoria Native Friendship Centre (Victoria): Friday, June 19, starting at 11:00 am This community event at the Victoria Native Friendship Centre features an afternoon of culture, connection, food, and public celebration.
  • Panorama Recreation (North Saanich): Sunday, June 21, beginning at 7:00 am A family-friendly indoor celebration showcasing First Nations, Inuit, and Métis cultural expressions, stories, and interactive activities.
  • Indigenous Peoples Weekend (Salt Spring Island): Saturday, June 20 to Sunday, June 21, starting at 11:00 am Hosted at the Salt Spring Island Farmers’ Institute, this multi-day festival includes a tipi-raising ceremony, Quw’utsun history exhibits, an artisan craft market, Métis storytelling, and a community potluck feast.

Fraser Valley & Southern Interior

Northern & Northeast BC

  • Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park (Prince George): Sunday, June 21, opening at 10:00 am A massive outdoor gathering featuring Indigenous musicians, drummers, dancers, local artisans, community partner booths, and fresh bannock. The event runs concurrently with the Father’s Day Show ’n Shine.
  • Tumbler Ridge Global Geopark: Sunday, June 21, 10:00 am A community event centered around cultural teachings, local Indigenous artisans, traditional performances, and family activities.

 

Celebrate Cultures

Additional suggestions for events and activities are as follows:

 

Know the Key Reports and Findings

Understand the important work that has taken place and help achieve the Calls to Action.

irishinbc