June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day. This is a day for all Canadians to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. Although these groups share many similarities, they each have their own distinct heritage, language, cultural practices and spiritual beliefs.

Here are some upcoming events that will be happening in our area:

Ktunaxa Kinbasket Child & Family Service Society, Rocky Mountain Métis Association, and Columbia Basin Trust National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebrations
When: June 20, 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Where: Rotary Park, Cranbrook

Join in a celebration of Indigenous culture through children’s activities, face painting, food, sharing of a Legend, dancing, Jigging, drumming, door prizes, and more.

2023 Indigenous Day Border Walk and Celebration at Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi’it:
When: June 21, 10:00 AM
Where: Roosville Border to start and then Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi’it Administration building

The Border Walk at the Roosville Border will start at 10:00 am followed by a Celebration at the Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi’it Administration building located on 5500 Village Loop Road.

Traditional Games, vendors, youth programs, cultural activities, dance demonstrations, dunk tank, bouncy castle, water slide, and door prizes.

*The highway will be closed both ways and people usually line up their cars on the highway, or park by the Duty Free Store. It is a good idea to be there early and carpool with others.

Shuswap Band National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebrations
When: June 21, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Where: James Chabot Park, Invermere

Celebrations will include Indigenous craft vendors, food vendors, hamburgers, popcorn, NDN tacos, workshops (pine needle baskets, medicine pouches, dream catchers and more), and Powwow performances.