Summer Solstice & National Indigenous People’s Day

In Canada, June 21st, the summer solstice, is recognized as National Indigenous Peoples Day, a day to celebrate and honor the cultures, traditions, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. This date was chosen because it aligns with the summer solstice, which has held deep spiritual and cultural significance for many Indigenous communities for generations, symbolizing renewal, connection, and celebration. 

Summer solstice is a time of great significance for Indigenous peoples. It signifies the arrival of warm weather, the beginning of summer, and symbolizes a new season of life. It’s a day for celebration. It is the longest day of the year, where the sunrise comes the earliest and the sunsets the latest in our skies. It also signifies the start of the social season for many nations.

June 21st, National Indigenous Peoples Day, and the start of summer solstice, we celebrate Indigenous culture and the contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples on Turtle Island.

Many First Nations, communities, and families alike, begin the day honouring the Summer Solstice in ceremony and this will look different yet similar.  While ceremonies are unique to different communities and nations, a pipe ceremony is typically done to offer blessings and a sunrise ceremony marks a new beginning as well as an appreciation for Mother Earth.

Every year, the summer solstice takes place on or close to June 21 and since 1996, so too does National Indigenous Peoples Day. Events are held across the country and all cultures are welcome, but it’s also seen as an opportunity for some to learn.

“Coinciding with National Indigenous Peoples Day … it’s a good way to kind of come together and to celebrate the bravery and the strength of our people or the original people of these territories.”

- Rae-Anna Whiteduck, cultural ambassador at Mādahòkì Farm in Ottawa

There is a lot to be gained from ceremonies during solstice as it helps Indigenous people to have deeper connections with the land and their identity. And while a time for learning, it’s important to celebrate our resilience. We need to celebrate to recognize our people. … We are a generation that is moving forward. A lot of us are turning back to reconnecting with our ceremonies or our ways of life.

Many National Indigenous Peoples Day events are open to the public, providing opportunities for Canadians to learn and participate in the celebrations. To find out more, click this link: https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1100100013718/1708446948967 

If you are looking for local celebrations, don’t hesitate to ask Grandfather Google what is happening in your area.