Jun 6

Celebrating National Indigenous History Month in the Fraser Valley

Estimated Read Time: 2 min 59 sec

We respectfully acknowledge that we live, work, play and travel on the traditional, ancestral, unceded and shared territories of the Katzie, Kwantlen, Semiahmoo, Leq’á:mel, Sema:th, Matheqwí, Qwó:ltl’el, Sq’éwlets, Aitchelitz, Shxwha:y, Skowkale, Squiala, Soowahlie, Tzeachten, Yakweakwioose, Cheam, Skwah, Kwaw Kwaw apilt, Douglas, Seabird Island, Sts’Ailes, Samahquam, Sq’ewá:lxw, Skatin, Chawathil, Shxw’ow’hamel, Xwoxwela:lhp, Peters, Popkum, Skawahlook, Spuzzum, Boston Bar, and Boothroyd First Nations.

June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada! It’s an opportunity to learn about the unique cultures, traditions and experiences of the Indigenous communities across the country; a time to honour the stories, achievements and resilience of Indigenous Peoples, who have lived on this land since time immemorial and whose presence continues to impact how Canada evolves.

These are some of the engaging, educational, and fun events that you can attend in the Fraser Valley this month to learn more about and honour local Indigenous communities, and celebrate their unique and diverse cultures!

A person dances in traditional Indigenous regalia.
An Indigenous artist stands next to their art.
A close-up of traditional Indigenous regalia during movement.
A young boy receives help in making a traditional drum.
A person's hand reaches for goods featured on a table at a market.
A group of people stand together in a circle holding hands.

Selxwí:chel Arts and Culture Day – Abbotsford

June 9

In honour of the occasion, Selxwí:chel Arts & Culture Events and the Heritage Abbotsford Society are honoured to present this community arts festival (formerly Aboriginal Arts & Culture Day) as an opportunity for visitors to learn more about Indigenous culture, history, and traditions.

This free family event will be held Sunday June 9, from 10 AM – 4 PM at 2313 Ware Street, Abbotsford.

Attendees will get the unique opportunity to watch Indigenous artists create work on-site and purchase pieces directly from them!

Two women stand holding the hands of a young child in-between them, all wearing traditional Indigenous regalia.
A girl wearing Indigenous regalia takes part in a performance.
A young child dressed in Indigenous regalia takes part in a performance.
Four women wearing traditional Indigenous regalia stand together facing the camera.

(Photo credit: Amber Oliver)

Stalew’s 10th Anniversary Celebration

June 15

Get ready for a day filled with cultural celebration just ahead of National Indigenous People’s Day (June 21)! This event highlights the vibrant heartbeat of the Indigenous community through mesmerizing powwow drumming, soulful singing, and captivating dancing.  At the vendor’s market, you can shop for art, clothing and homeware among over 40 local artisans showcasing their work. And don’t miss the chance to tantalize your taste buds with delectable Indigenous cuisine care of  Ancestor’s Café.

Admission is FREE, so be sure to stop by and celebrate a decade of community empowerment and cultural heritage.

Pulling Together – I’xel Sq’eq’otel: Featuring the Music of Éy St’elmexw St’elt’ílém – Good Medicine Songs – Abbotsford

June 15 -16

Join Éy St’élmexw St’elt’ílém – Good Medicine Songs for their event I’xel Sq’eq’otel/Pulling Together, where songs and stories about reconciliation, healing, teachings, and the Sto:lo language and culture will be shared! 

The community gathering will be held on June 15, and the Sunday Service will be held on June 16.

Indigenous Peoples Day – Mission

June 21

Come celebrate the culture, traditions, and community contributions of Indigenous people at the Fraser River Heritage Park in Mission! This year’s theme is healing through mind, body, and spirit, so expect to see all kinds of inspired art and performance. All are welcome to come and enjoy the scheduled activities, including crafts, drumming, face painting, yoga, storytelling, and more.

A woman sits in front of a window, deep in thought with a table in front of her.
A woman stands in front of her art hung up on the wall.
A woman stands in front of an Indigenous art mural that she is currently painting.
Indigenous artwork by Carrielynn Victor.

Art Exhibit & Live Interview: Coast Salish Artist Carrielynn Victor – Chilliwack

June 21

Another way to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day, this is a chance to immerse yourself in a transformative evening that bridges art, culture, and conversation! Join in honouring the rich heritage and vibrant creativity of First Nations communities with an exclusive event featuring renowned artist Carrielynn Victor and the charismatic host of the Bigger Than Me Podcast, Aaron Pete.

Tickets can be purchased here.

Chillcouture: Shxwthit’awkw’ | Indigenous Peoples Day Fashion, Arts & Music Gala – Chilliwack

June 21

The beautiful Shxwá:y Cultural Centre will provide the backdrop for a gala evening showcasing & celebrating a cultural evening of Indigenous fashion, art, music & cuisine!

Tickets can be purchased here.

A group of people stand in a plaza, some wearing Indigenous regalia.
An Indigenous drum and mallet.
Indigenous jewellery on display on a table.
Canoes lined along the beach.

Sasquatch Days – Harrison

June 22 – 23

The very first Sasquatch Days took place on May 23rd and 24th, 1938, and was attended by over 2000 First Nations people from across Canada and the United States. Now you can be a part of living history as you join the event on the shores of Harrison Lake, the traditional territory of Sts’ailes people!  At the ancient village site of Qwólts, visitors can cheer on war canoe races, feast on a salmon BBQ and go for restorative medicine walks.