Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival

10/03/2026

Meet Peanut, Clementine and Binou, our Kunekune pigs! 🐷🧡

The Kunekune breed comes from New Zealand and is believed to have descended from domestic pigs brought from Asia by whalers or traders in the early 19th century. The breed was adopted by the Māori people, and its name comes from the Māori word kunekune, meaning “fat and round”, a pretty fitting description if you ask me!

Say hello to all 3 of our Kunekune girls at your next visit to Madahoki Farm! We're open Thursdays to Sundays, 11am to 4pm.

09/30/2026

Today is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Today calls on all of us to make space for truth, remembrance and reflection. We recognize the strength and resilience of Survivors, hold space for the children whose lives were taken or forever changed by the residential school system, and recognize the profound effects that continue within Indigenous families and communities today.

Every Child Matters is more than a message for today. It is a reminder of the importance of learning the truth, listening to Indigenous voices and carrying what we learn forward in the work of reconciliation.

We welcome you to visit Madahoki Farm today from 1pm to 6pm to gather around the sacred fire with Elder Vince Kicknosway and spend time on the land in quiet reflection.

Today is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Today calls on all of us to make space for truth, remembrance and reflection. We recognize the strength and resilience of Survivors, hold space for the children whose lives were taken or forever changed by the residential school system, and recognize the profound effects that continue within Indigenous families and communities today.

Every Child Matters is more than a message for today. It is a reminder of the importance of learning the truth, listening to Indigenous voices and carrying what we learn forward in the work of reconciliation.

We welcome you to join us at Madahoki Farm today from 1pm to 6pm to gather around the sacred fire with Elder Vince Kicknosway and spend time on the land in quiet reflection.

09/25/2026

Join us at Madahoki Farm on September 30 as we come together to honour residential school Survivors, remember the children who never came home, and reflect on the lasting impacts on families and communities.

From 1pm to 6pm, gather around the sacred fire with Elder Vince Kicknosway, with to***co and smudging offerings available.

You can also visit our Marketplace to explore our selection of products and find something meaningful to wear or share while supporting Indigenous creators.

📍 4420 W Hunt Club Rd.

09/24/2026

The Glow-in-the-Dark Pow Wow Dance Party returned to , bringing dancers, performers and festival-goers together under the lights for one of our favourite traditions 🌙✨

With Classic Roots bringing his signature blend of Pow Wow and electronic music, the arena was filled with colour, movement and incredible energy.

Miigwetch to everyone who joined us on the dance floor and helped light up the night! We can’t wait to see you next year! 🧡

09/21/2026

A special part of was connecting with the rare and sacred Ojibwe Spirit Horses.

Presented by Scotiabank, the Ojibwe Spirit Horse Encounters invited visitors to learn about Canada’s only Indigenous horse breed, hear the story of the herd and discover the important cultural connection between Indigenous Peoples and these remarkable horses.

A deeply moving moment of the celebration was a special horse ceremony led by Elder Dorothy Taylor, offering gratitude for the Spirit Horses and honouring their presence, teachings and connection to the community.

Through live demonstrations, storytelling and hands-on activities, including a roping activity with Knowledge Keeper Rhonda Snow, attendees had the opportunity to get a little closer to the horses while learning about the ongoing work to protect and celebrate their legacy.

09/20/2026

Here’s a look back at some of our favourite moments from the Celebration Stage, presented by OLG! ✨

Throughout the weekend, the stage brought together an incredible mix of Indigenous talent and family-friendly entertainment, from Scott Sinquah’s hoop dancing and Siqiniup Qilauta’s throat singing to Chanelle Munroe’s magic, Rabbit and Bear Paws’ puppetry and even Justin Francois’ Elvis tribute!

Miigwetch to all of the artists and performers who shared their talents, stories and energy with us, and to everyone who gathered to watch, listen, dance and celebrate.

09/20/2026

Here’s a look back at some of our favourite moments from the Celebration Stage, presented by OLG! ✨

Throughout the weekend, the stage brought together an incredible mix of Indigenous talent and family-friendly entertainment, from Scott Sinquah's hoop dancing and Siqiniup Qilauta's throat singing to Chanelle Munroe's magic, Rabbit and Bear Paws' puppetry and even Justin Francois' Elvis tribute!

Miigwetch to all of the artists and performers who shared their talents, stories and energy with us, and to everyone who gathered to watch, listen, dance and celebrate.

09/17/2026

The numbers tell just part of . This year, more than 60,000 visitors came together to celebrate Indigenous Peoples, cultures and community alongside:

✨ 400+ Indigenous artists, performers and Knowledge Keepers
🪶 200+ Pow Wow competitors
🛍️ 70+ Indigenous vendors
🏆 $100,000+ in Pow Wow prizes
📱 1 million+ people reached through social media
📰 130 million+ estimated media impressions

Behind every number are people, stories, traditions and connections that made this year’s Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival one to remember.

Chi-miigwetch to everyone who joined us, shared their talents and helped make possible. The impact continues long after festival weekend.

09/16/2026

would not be possible without the incredible sponsors and partners who help bring the festival to life!

Thank you for helping us create meaningful spaces where Indigenous communities can come together, share cultures, celebrate Indigenous excellence and welcome thousands of visitors to learn, connect and take part in ReconciliACTION.

We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who supported this year’s festival, and as we look ahead to 2027, we’re excited to continue growing these relationships and welcoming new partners who want to be part of this important celebration.

RBC OLG TD Indigenous Tourism Ontario Scotiabank Conseil des écoles catholiques du Centre-Est Conseil des écoles publiques de l'Est de l'Ontario CAA North & East Ontario Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa Royal Canadian Geographical Society Ottawa Tourism

09/14/2026

As summer winds down, we're looking back at and an incredible celebration of Indigenous Peoples, cultures and community.

Despite the inclement weather forecast, thousands came together at Wesley Clover Parks for a weekend filled with Pow Wow, live performances, cultural experiences, Indigenous food, art, storytelling and connection.

From the energy of the International Competition Pow Wow and the debut of Smoke Dance, to the 150 Years of the Indian Act Pavilions, ReconciliACTION Drone Show and so many moments in between, the weekend was a powerful reminder of the strength, resilience and vibrancy of Indigenous cultures.

Miigwetch to the Elders, Knowledge Keepers, artists, dancers, drummers, vendors, volunteers, partners and everyone for joining and celebrating us this year 🧡

The festival may be over, but the celebration, learning and ReconciliACTION continue year-round.

National Association of Friendship Centres Assembly of First Nations/Assemblee des premieres Nations Métis National Council CAP CAP ISET Native Women's Association of Canada GCIndigenous RBC OLG TD Indigenous Tourism Ontario Scotiabank