Edmonton

How Edmontonians can celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day this year

For 29 years, Canadians have spent June 21 celebrating unique and outstanding Indigenous contributions. Edmonton will see a variety of events marking National Indigenous Peoples Day this weekend.

Events in Edmonton will celebrate Indigenous culture and community this weekend

A poster that says:  "Celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day' in white text over a green background. To the left is Indigenous artwork of light greens, dark red, orange, pale blue, like a mosaic of flowers, Indigenous earrings, all surrounded by green growing and flowing roots and leaves.
Edmonton will have an array of events to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day. (CBC)

People across Canada will spend Saturday, recognizing the unique culture and community of Indigenous peoples. 

Governor General Roméo LeBlanc proclaimed June 21 as National Indigenous Peoples Day in 1996.

Here in Edmonton, a host of events are set to take place to commemorate the holiday.

TELUS World of Science  

The TELUS World of Science in Edmonton will spend Saturday showcasing local Indigenous artists. The event will include live performances, an artisan market, other activities and Indigenous teachings outdoors.

When: June 21, 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Cost: Included with general admission, free for Indigenous peoples

The Canadian Native Friendship Centre  

The centre will host the CNFC Indigenous Peoples Festival this Saturday at Borden Park. Activities will include Indigenous storytelling, teepee teachings, an artisan market, Indigenous games, food trucks and live performances.

When: June 21, noon to 6 p.m.
Cost: Free, pay what you can

Fort Edmonton Park  

Over the weekend, Fort Edmonton Park will host a variety of programming, including performances like the Grass Dance, and Jingle Dress and Fancy Shawl dancing. It will also provide interactive learning opportunities on Inuit teachings and other medicinal practices. 

When: June 21 and 22
Cost: Included with general admission, free for Indigenous peoples

The Alberta Gallery of Art  

The museum will host a series of workshops and talks from local Indigenous artists. Programming will aim to highlight "learning and reclaiming of culture, language and traditions through art."

When: June 21, noon to 5 p.m.
Cost: Admission by donation

City Centre Mall

Two major Indigenous projects will remain on display at the mall until Saturday. 

UNCEDED: VOICES OF THE LAND, bills itself as the first Indigenous-led contemporary architecture exhibit on the world stage. It showcases major projects and frameworks created by Indigenous people in Canada. It is located near the mall's west entrance, and remains there until June 21. 

The IAM Collective Weekend Pop Up Market also remains open at the mall until June 21. The market showcases local Indigenous artists and vendors, and is located in front of the UNCEDED: VOICES OF THE LAND exhibit.