Five highlights of the Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival
From culinary workshops to a glow-in-the-dark powwow, there’s something for everyone to enjoy
The Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival is taking place June 21 and 22 at Wesley Clover Parks. Stop by this free event where you can experience community celebrations, cultural activities, culinary delights and an international competition powwow all coinciding with National Indigenous Peoples Day.
This multidisciplinary arts festival brings together Indigenous artists, performers, educators, students and community members to share knowledge and celebrate Canada's diverse Indigenous cultures.
CBC Ottawa is proud to partner with the Ottawa Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival. This year's lineup of activities is full of family-friendly, educational and entertaining events.
Here are five highlights you won't want to miss:
1. A Seat at the Table with North of North's Zorga Qaunaq
Join us on June 21 at 5 p.m. for a powerful and memorable evening of Indigenous cuisine, culture and conversation.
The evening is hosted by Ottawa Morning's Rebecca Zandbergen and features a fireside chat and a meet and greet with Zorga Qaunaq, who stars as Millie on the tv series North of North. Guests will enjoy a buffet dinner curated by Mādahòkì Farm's executive chef Billy Alexander, including an interactive Arctic char ceviche station by renowned Inuk chef Trudy Metcalfe-Coe.
Evening dinner tickets include three-hour reserved seating with premium views of Saturday's vibrant programming including the international competition powwow grand entry, a glow-in-the-dark powwow featuring Classic Roots and a spectacular drone show to cap off the evening.
Click here to get your tickets.
2. Celebration Stage
The Celebration Stage is the place to be for live music, cultural showcases and demonstrations. This year's lineup includes Métis magician Chanelle Munroe and award-winning Elvis tribute artist Justin Francois.
The Celebration Stage programming also includes cultural showcases of Inuit throat singing, Métis jigging, theatrical performances and hoop dancing with world champion Scott Sinquah.
Click here for more details.
3. Indigenous Marketplace
The Indigenous Marketplace features over 70 authentic Indigenous vendors offering one-of-a-kind beadwork, jewellery, clothing, home décor, natural wellness products, original artworks and food.
Can't make it to the festival? You can support Indigenous entrepreneurs and shop 24/7 at the Summer Solstice Indigenous Marketplace online store.
4. Indigenous Horse Activities
Meet and greet Mādahòkì Farm's herd of rare and sacred Ojibwe Spirit Horses. These gentle animals hold deep cultural and historical significance for Indigenous communities. Guests can learn about their incredible survival story and their vital role in traditional teachings.
Discover the living legacy of Indigenous cowboy and warrior culture as Mountain Stone Equine demonstrates traditional horse painting, bareback relay riding and horse culture teachings. This 90-minute event highlights the athleticism, symbolism and spiritual connection at the heart of Indigenous horsemanship.
Click here for more details.
5. Family-fun and The Superdogs
Free, family-fun activities include inflatable axe throwing, Jed the Mechanical Bull, Inuit games, face painting and a bouncy castle. New this year, The Superdogs show features talented dogs performing impressive tricks and stunts combining entertainment with a sense of wonder.
Click here for more details.
