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National Indigenous Peoples Day celebration returns to Burlington park June 21
Burlington's National Indigenous Peoples Day celebration returns to Spencer Smith Park for the third straight year on Saturday, June 21.
The free event takes place from 9 a.m. to noon
at the west end of Spencer Smith Park
, and features live performances by Indigenous artists and activities designed to both celebrate, and learn more about, Indigenous culture and knowledge.
Meanwhile, a
dedicated Indigenous ceremonial circle with fire pit
is nearing completion in Sweetgrass Park at 565 Woodview Rd.
A $122,900 contract was awarded in January to All The Best Paving Limited, of Hamilton. Construction was
scheduled to start in April and finish before the end of June
. Work includes a contemplative area and 23 sweetgrass plants.
The Sweetgrass Park improvements will provide a permanent location for Indigenous ceremonies, but city staff could not confirm by deadline whether future National Indigenous Day celebrations will relocate there, or remain at Spencer Smith Park after this year.
Mayor Marianne Meed Ward said National Indigenous Peoples Day falls on the longest day of the year and 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,' Meed Ward stated in a city press release. '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.'
