Background
National Indigenous Peoples Day is observed on the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. For generations, First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities have marked this time by celebrating their cultures, languages and traditions. The summer solstice holds deep spiritual and cultural significance and represents a time of renewal, connection and celebration for many Indigenous Peoples.
Honouring Indigenous Peoples Day: The Original Stewards of the Land
On Indigenous Peoples Day, we recognize and celebrate the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples who have cared for these lands since time immemorial. As the original stewards of the land, the elders carry wisdom so profound it continues to guide generations in living with respect, balance, and connection to the Earth.
Today, we reflect on the beauty of Indigenous cultures, languages, traditions, and knowledge systems that continue to inspire us. We continue to learn and listen to how nature speaks — through the wind, the water, the trees, and the animals. Indigenous languages carry the sounds and rhythms of nature itself, reflecting a deep connection to the natural world.
Indigenous wisdom teaches us to become observers of nature — to slow down, pay attention, and understand that the Earth is always speaking. These teachings remind us that everything is interconnected, and when we care for the Earth, we care for one another.
As caretakers of the Earth, Indigenous Peoples continue to show us the importance of protecting what sustains us and nurturing the connections that bring us together.
Today, and every day, we honour the resilience, strength, and enduring spirit of Indigenous Peoples.
Happy Indigenous Peoples Day.
For more information, visit: RecycleBC.ca/IndigenousRelations
How To Get Involved
Learn more about National Indigenous Peoples Day:
- Information: National Indigenous Peoples Day
- Participation: participate in an event in your community
- Discussion: Engage in dialogue with others to learn and celebrate
- Donation: Many organizations are dedicated to supporting Indigenous peoples by celebrating and restoring their cultures, languages, and traditions. You can find a list of Indigenous charities on CanadaHelps
Events
These events are all happening on June 21, 2026, Metro Vancouver. Events from additional areas of BC can be found searching this list of events or viewing additional events here.
Looking for ways to learn, listen, and celebrate in community? Check here to search events (sort by province), and here are a couple events happening in Metro Vancouver this June 2026 in honour of National Indigenous Peoples Day:
- National Indigenous Peoples Day (City of Burnaby): Saturday, June 20, 2026 (1 p.m.–5 p.m.), Civic Square (6100 Willingdon Ave), Burnaby. A free community celebration featuring performances (dance, live music, spoken word and storytelling), family activities and an Indigenous artisan market.
- National Indigenous Peoples Day (District of West Vancouver): Sunday, June 21, 2026 (4 p.m.–8 p.m.), Ambleside Park (by the Welcome Figure that marks K’aya’chtn), West Vancouver. A family-friendly event highlighting languages, music, dance and the contributions of First Nations peoples.
- Note: Many annual celebrations, like Surrey’s National Indigenous Peoples Day gathering at the Bill Reid Millennium Amphitheatre, typically take place on or around June 21. Because event schedules can change year to year, we recommend checking municipal event pages closer to the date for the latest details.
For more information, visit: RecycleBC.ca/IndigenousRelations