Here’s how you can celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day in Tkʼemlúps (Kamloops)

June 21 marks National Indigenous Peoples Day, an opportunity to celebrate and recognize the history of First Nations across the country. 

This celebration takes place on the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. Many generations of First Nations communities celebrate their traditions, cultures and languages during this time of year, which marks a time of renewal, celebration and connection.  

Here are a few ways to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day in Tkʼemlúps (Kamloops).

National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration

Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc and partners are hosting the National Indigenous Peoples Day celebration on Saturday, June 21 at 10 a.m.

This event is hosted at the Tk̓emlúps Arbour in collaboration with the City of Kamloops, Kamloops Aboriginal Friendship Society, Two Rivers Métis Society, ASK Wellness Society and Lii Michif Otipemisiwak. 

There will be performances showcasing Indigenous music with drumming, fiddlers, jigging and dancing, as well as educational workshops with opportunities for language sessions, cultural teachings and storytelling led by Knowledge Keepers. Traditional art will be available to purchase made by Indigenous artisans and vendors.

Food and other interactive activities will be part of the event. Attendance is free and the festivities are family-friendly.

The Grizzlies film showing

The Kamloops Film Society is playing The Grizzlies in recognition of National Indigenous History Month and National Indigenous Peoples Day on Friday, June 20 and Saturday, June 21. The Grizzlies is a movie about a small Arctic town with the highest suicide rate in North America. There a group of Inuit students is transformed by lacrosse.

The movie follows the journey of how northern youth transformed a town. This is a Canadian film presented at the Paramount Theatre. Tickets are $13.95 for general admission and $11.10 for admission of seniors, students and children.

Kamloopa Powwow

Presented by the Kamloopa Powwow Society, the 44th annual Kamloopa Powwow will take place from Friday, June 27 to Sunday, June 29 at the Powwow Arbour. 

The Powwow will celebrate the culture of First Nations in the Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc territory. It is estimated to have 500 dancers and drummers from across Canada and the United States. 

Attendees can expect to enjoy colourful regalia, food, drumming, dancing and artisan vendor booths. More information on the event can be found on the facebook page of Kamloopa Powow Society.

K̓wséltkten Farmers and Artisan Market

Support local vendors at the K̓wséltkten Farmers and Artisans Market every Sunday up to Sept. 28 excluding the long weekends. K̓wséltkten means relatives in the Secwépemc language.

This event brings an authentic cultural experience, offering traditional foods, medicines, handmade artisan products, fresh produce and more. This is a welcoming space with free attendance hosted at 520-185 Chief Eli Larue Way. 

To keep up with any updates on the market more information is available at the Facebook page of the market.