June 5, 2025 — City of Burlington

The Urban Indigenous Community, with support from the City of Burlington, is honoured to welcome residents to the Solstice Ceremony in recognition of National Indigenous Peoples Day on Saturday, June 21, 2025, from 9 a.m. to noon at the west end of Spencer Smith Park. 

June 21 marks the summer solstice and is an opportunity for the community to gather in celebration of Indigenous culture, knowledge, and artistry. The ceremony serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring presence, strength, and contributions of Indigenous People in our region.    

Program highlights

  • Intentions and Fire Ceremony with WhiteEagle Stonefish; Opening remarks with Stephen Paquette; Emcee: Kate Dickson 
  • Live performances by Indigenous artists: Kate Dickson, Shannon Thunderbird, Amber Kakiishiway, Matt Bergman, and Jaimie Lindsay 
  • Interactive activities: Smudging with Stephen Paquette, drumming on two big drums with Shannon Thunderbird, Indigenous-led dance instruction with Jaimie Lindsay, and children’s activities with Laura Suthers. Vendors, storytelling, and lots of laughter 

National Indigenous Peoples Day, which falls on the longest day of the year, is a vibrant celebration of the strength, artistry, and traditions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. This special day is an opportunity for all of us to come together to honour the richness and diversity of cultures that have shaped our land for generations. Burlington is proud to stand in partnership with the Urban Indigenous community to support the Solstice Ceremony celebration, and I encourage everyone to join us at Spencer Smith Park to experience the live music, performances, stories, and shared joy that make this day so meaningful.

— Mayor Marianne Meed Ward

Location: Spencer Smith Park, west end 
Date: Saturday, June 21 
Time: 9 a.m. – noon 

National Indigenous Peoples Day is a happy, fun-filled, free event. All are welcome to join in the festivities.    

All residents are encouraged to learn more about First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples with their unique cultures, traditions, communities, and histories. Resources can be found on the Government of Canada’s website here to support your learning journey.