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Celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day at this free community event in Burnaby

The celebration will include Indigenous dance performances, storytelling, spoken word and artisan market.
web1_four-year-old-sarenity-desjarlais-cahoose--left--and-timea--right--weave-at-national-indigenous-peoples-day-in-burnaby
Four-year-old Sarenity Desjarlais-Cahoose (left) and Timea (right) weave at National Indigenous Peoples Day celebration in Burnaby, B.C. on June 21, 2022. Photo Lauren Vanderdeen

With National Indigenous Peoples Day fast approaching, the City of Burnaby is hosting a free community event to celebrate on Wednesday, June 21.

In recognition of the day, the event hosted by the city will highlight the work of Indigenous artists, performers and storytellers at Edmonds Plaza and Park (7433 Edmonds St.) from noon until 5 p.m. on Wednesday, June 21.

The celebration will include dance and storytelling, and feature numerous Indigenous artisans. The roster of artists will include Métis singer Sandy Scofield, traditional Coast Salish song and dance group, Tsatsu Stalqayu (Coastal Wolf Pack), Plains Cree poet/rapper and spoken word artist Tawahum, among more.

In addition to this, Burnaby Art Gallery’s BAG on a Bike mobile printing station will be offering a custom commissioned plate by Jonas Jones; as well as other art activities.

“On National Indigenous Peoples Day, we recognize and honour Indigenous Peoples and the incredible contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Metis people across this land,” said Mayor Mike Hurley in a news release. “This is an opportunity for our entire community to come together to celebrate and learn about Indigenous people and culture, and to recognize the importance of working towards reconciliation.”

The family-friendly event is free to attend for community members. The City is encouraging guests to leave their car at home and choose an active transportation option like walking or cycling, or take transit.

National Indigenous Peoples Day

Where: Edmonds Plaza and Park (7433 Edmonds Street)

When: Wednesday, June 21; noon to 5 p.m.

Cost: Free