Toronto Celebrates Indigenous Peoples Month with the Return of Na-Me-Res Pow Wow and Indigenous Arts Festival

June 3, 2024 Kelly Deschamps

TORONTO – The City of Toronto is gearing up to honor and celebrate Indigenous Peoples Month with the highly anticipated return of the Na-Me-Res Pow Wow and Indigenous Arts Festival. Mayor Olivia Chow has officially proclaimed June as Indigenous Peoples Month, emphasizing the city’s commitment to recognizing and appreciating the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous communities across Turtle Island.

Taking place on Saturday, June 15, and Sunday, June 16, at Garrison Commons outside Fort York National Historic Site, the Na-Me-Res Pow Wow and Indigenous Arts Festival promises a weekend filled with traditional and contemporary music, dance, artisanal crafts, and culinary delights. This free annual festival serves as a platform to showcase the talents and contributions of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples.

#CityOfTO celebrates National Indigenous Peoples Month with the return of the Na-Me-Res Pow Wow and Indigenous Arts Festival

News release: https://t.co/OIdODQaQ94 pic.twitter.com/Idq47QmL7a

— City of Toronto (@cityoftoronto) June 3, 2024

Saturday’s festivities kick off with a Traditional Pow Wow hosted by Na-Me-Res from 12 to 5 p.m., followed by an evening of live concerts curated by TKMF Productions, featuring a diverse lineup of contemporary and traditional Indigenous musical performers from 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. On Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., attendees can enjoy a full day of live music and dance performances, highlighting some of Canada’s most renowned and emerging Indigenous talent.

Throughout the weekend, visitors are encouraged to explore the vibrant artisan and food market stalls, offering a wide array of handmade creations, stunning artwork, and delicious Indigenous dishes available for purchase. It’s an opportunity to support local artisans and immerse oneself in the rich tapestry of Indigenous culture.

In addition to the festival, the City of Toronto will host a Sunrise Ceremony on Friday, June 21, at 5:30 a.m. at Nathan Phillips Square to commemorate National Indigenous Peoples Day. This sacred ceremony invites all Torontonians to join in offering prayers and gratitude for all of creation and the pursuit of Mino Baamodziwin, “The Good Life.”

The Na-Me-Res Pow Wow and Indigenous Arts Festival is made possible through partnerships with founding partners, the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and Na-Me-Res, and presented by TD Bank Group. The support of sponsors like the Government of Canada and media partners APTN, CBC News Toronto, ELMNT FM, and the Toronto Star further demonstrates the widespread community backing for this important cultural event.

Mayor Olivia Chow expressed her pride in proclaiming June as Indigenous Peoples Month, urging Torontonians to engage with Indigenous histories and join in celebrating Indigenous arts and culture. Councillor Alejandra Bravo (Davenport), Chair of the Economic and Community Development Committee, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the invaluable contributions of Indigenous Peoples to the city of Toronto.

As Toronto prepares to come together in solidarity and celebration, the Na-Me-Res Pow Wow and Indigenous Arts Festival stand as a testament to the city’s ongoing commitment to truth, reconciliation, and fostering cultural understanding and appreciation.

For more information about the Na-Me-Res Pow Wow and Indigenous Arts Festival, visit the City’s Festivals & Events webpage here. Additionally, learn more about additional Indigenous programming on the City’s Indigenous Events, Commemorations & Awards webpage here.