It’s a time to recognize and celebrate the unique traditions, cultures and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples and to honour their stories, achievements, and resilience. We encourage you to take some time to learn more about Indigenous Peoples, as well as our collective past, and how we are all going forward in Canada.
The best way to gain a deeper understanding of First Nations, Inuit and Métis experiences is through their own voices. Enjoy Indigenous storytelling by picking up a book, attending a show, watching a movie or listening to music from Indigenous artists. For generations, many Indigenous communities have celebrated their culture on or near June 21, the summer solstice. Learn more About National Indigenous Peoples Day and how the tradition lives on.
Vancouver Events & Resources
You can participate in localized learning and cultural events across the Lower Mainland:
- Vancouver Public Library (VPL): Hosts a variety of events ranging from film screenings, director Q&As, Métis jigging, and workshops on land rights. Check the VPL Programs Calendar for specific dates and times.
- Tourism & Experiences: Explore authentic Indigenous experiences, stories, and athlete spotlights through Indigenous Tourism BC.
- City of Richmond: Offers a series of local educational resources and community activities listed on the City of Richmond Events Page.
Ways to Learn and Engage
- Government Resources: Access lesson plans, maps, and reports about Indigenous experiences via Crown-Indigenous Relations Canada.
- PSAC Course: Take the self-paced Walking in Our Truth Together course, which explores treaties, Indigenous law, and residential schools, as highlighted by the PSAC Union.
You can check out the GC Indigenous Instagram account to learn more about inspiring Indigenous women, 2SLGBTQ+ people, environmentalists, artists, activists, scientists and researchers.
You can support the 19th National Indigenous Peoples Day Auction 2026 taking place on June 19-27, 2026.
This annual online auction continues to raise money towards initiatives such as The Warrior Project supporting Indigenous articling students.
Many Indigenous people celebrate in community and everyone can enjoy numerous festive activities. See Indigenous Tourism BC for events throughout the province. And here are a few more:
- Abbotsford, June 7: take in the Selxwi:chel Arts & Culture Festival, a free, family-friendly celebration of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit arts, culture, and community
- Vancouver, June 12: listen to Indigenous storytelling with Norm Leech, Suzanne Steele, Mary Point, and Blue Sky
- Victoria, June 19: everyone welcome to an afternoon of culture, connection, and celebration of NIPD at the Victoria Native Friendship Centre
- Victoria, June 19: enjoy a day of fun and community relations at Royal Roads University on the traditional Lands of the Lekwungen Peoples and the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations
- Burnaby, June 20: join master carver and kʷikʷəƛ̓əm artist Sweewa, Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Nation Matriarch Wendy Nahanee, artist Rain Cabana-Boucher
- Courtenay, June 20: K’ómoks First Nation hosts a day-long celebration of the contributions and unique cultures of First Nation, Inuit, and Métis communities locally and from across Canada
- Abbotsford, June 20: explore stations throughout Mill Lake Park combining hands-on learning and cultural exhibits
- Langley, June 21: enjoy barbecue and bannock, browse Indigenous vendors, see cultural performances
- Kitsilano, June 21: see a free RSVP screening of Sweet Summer Pow Wow by filmmakers Leslie Bland and Harold Joe and take in the Indigenous-focused exhibitions at the MOV
- Prince George, June 21: guests celebrate with Indigenous vendors, artisans, food sellers, and community partners at Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park
- Kamloops, June 21: live performances, drumming, dancing, food trucks, vendor market, bingo, activities for all ages at Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc Arbour