The Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival is held on June 21, which is a holiday in Canada—National Indigenous Peoples Day dedicated to Indigenous peoples’ culture and heritage. The date of the summer solstice has been sacred to many Indigenous communities and was recognized as a day of special significance.
Festival Highlights
The Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival allows all Ottawa residents to celebrate the culture of the first inhabitants. The festival has diverse programming, including creative workshops, educational sessions, traditional knowledge sharing, culinary experiences, a movie night, and the vibrant Competition Pow Wow showcasing live music and dance performances.
Activities
Education Day
On June 19, the festival opens its doors to teachers, students, and homeschool groups for a day of complimentary Indigenous Programming at the Canadian Museum of History. This exclusive event for registered schools features a Cultural Showcase, Métis Games, Inuit Games, and a Music Concert, offering a unique learning experience for all.
Celebration Stage
The Celebration Stage is a hub of activity featuring live music, cultural showcases, and demonstrations. On Friday, June 21, for National Indigenous Peoples Day, attendees can enjoy a Traditional Welcome Ceremony, performances by the World Hoop Dance Champion and Métis dancers, Sunsdram Inuit throat singers, and more. The day kicks off with an Opening Ceremony at 1 pm and concludes at 5:30 pm. Later in the evening, visitors can experience the Pow Wow competition starting at 6 pm, featuring the host drum for 2024 – Northern Cree.
Saturday, June 22, continues the festivities with additional performances, including traditional Inuit games, from 10:30 am to 7 pm. The Pow Wow competition, showcasing drummers and dancers across North America will run from noon to 6:00 pm. On Sunday, June 23, those who missed previous activities can catch up from 10:30 am to 4 pm.
Parking
Be aware that onsite parking is not available at the festival venue. Street parking on West Hunt Club Road is also prohibited during the event. Visitors can use shuttles departing from Algonquin College, ensuring hassle-free transportation to the festivities from 12 pm to 11 pm.
