June is National Indigenous History Month, a time to reflect on and celebrate the contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis people. National Indigenous Peoples Day takes place on June 21 and there is also Aboriginal Awareness Week Calgary from June 14 to 21. During this month and beyond, it’s important to take time to learn about, acknowledge and appreciate Indigenous culture and history.
Here are some upcoming events where you can learn more about Indigenous culture and stories this month.
National Indigenous History Month Events with the Calgary Public Library
When: Multiple dates
The Calgary Public Library, which offers educational resources on Indigenous culture and history, is holding several events over National Indigenous History Month. Events include “Music Under the Archway with Damase Elis, Jaiden Riley, and Caitlin Goulet” on June 8, 22 and 29, an online and in-person event featuring Indigenous sports heroes on June 12 and more.
Indigenous History Month Celebrations at Southcentre Mall
When: June 1 to 23
This month, Southcentre Mall is celebrating Indigenous peoples and culture with a multi-week cultural installation in the mall’s Centre Court. There will also be events like an Indigenous Artisan Market on June 6 and 7 and the Authentically Indigenous Fashion Show, Rez in the City 2.0, on June 22.
100 Anderson Rd. S.E., southcentremall.com
Aboriginal Awareness Week Calgary
When: June 14 to 21
Aboriginal Awareness Week Calgary returns this year with the theme of “Inspiring Our Youth for Change.” On June 14, don’t miss the full day of activities at Enmax Park, including an Indigenous arts and craft market, a hand games tournament, a traditional powwow and more.
Campfire Chats: A Celebration of Indigenous Music and Culture
When: June 21
The University of Calgary and Heritage Park are honouring National Indigenous Peoples Day with the latest edition of Campfire Chats. Running from 2 to 4 p.m., the free event focuses on Indigenous music and culture with performances by Elder Rod Hunter and Eya-Hey Nakoda, Craig Ginn, Foreshadow, Ksk’staak’iinna and Shane Ghostkeeper.
Heritage Park Plaza, ucalgary.ca
OHSOTO’KINO: National Indigenous Peoples Day at Studio Bell
When: June 21
Head to the National Music Centre (NMC) to celebrate Indigenous dance and music on June 21. Inuk-Mohawk artist Beatrice Deer will be performing twice that day, and there will also be performances by Blackfoot traditional singer Norvin Eagle Speaker, grass dancer Takota Eagle Speaker and fancy dancer Miracle Eagle Speaker.
While you’re there, check out the updated version of NMC’s Speak Up! exhibition, which will feature five new Indigenous artists/groups starting on June 18: Beatrice Deer, Dakhká Khwáan Dancers, Ray St. Germain, Harry Rusk and Kelly Fraser. Admission to NMC is free on June 21.
Studio Bell, 850 4 St. S.E., 403-543-5115, studiobell.ca
Walk for Reconciliation 2025
When: June 21
On June 21, you can join the 2025 Walk for Reconciliation, which travels from the Harry Hays Building to The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland. After the walk, there will be an outdoor gathering featuring drumming, dancing and speeches, followed by traditional Blackfoot face painting and blessings by Blackfoot elders. The first 500 participants can also enjoy a catered community meal.
Walk starts at Harry Hays Building, 220 4 Ave. S.E., ends at The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland, 750 9 Ave. S.E., theconfluence.ca