National Indigenous People's Day

National Indigenous Peoples Day takes place on June 21st. It is celebrated in communities all around Metro Vancouver including in the City of Maple Ridge.

In 2024 activities take place at Memorial Peace Park in Maple Ridge from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm. They happen on Saturday, June 22nd, so the day after the official day. Admission is free.

National Indigenous Peoples Day at Memorial Peace Park in Maple Ridge

Hosted by the Fraser River Indigenous Society, the event in Maple Ridge usually features music and dance performances. There are also artisan vendors and family-friendly activities most years.

The City of Maple Ridge is on the traditional and unceded territories of the Katzie and Kwantlen First Nations.

Where is the Memorial Peace Park?

The Memorial Peace Park is in the heart of downtown Maple Ridge at 11930 224th Street. The park is in front of the ACT Arts Centre and Maple Ridge Leisure Centre. Maple Ridge itself is about 45 kilometres east of downtown Vancouver and just 15 kilometres east of Port Coquitlam.

Indigenous Event at Memorial Peace Park

What to Expect

Similar to comparable events elsewhere in the Lower Mainland, the National Indigenous Peoples Day event at the Memorial Peace Park is a celebration of First Nations culture.

Various demonstrations and activities are held in the park for this event. They include pow wow dancing, hoop dancing, drumming, art displays, poetry readings and singing by members of local First Nations communities.

Participants last year included the Hula Spirit Dancers, Maple Sugar Dancers, Rosalee, Stars of North Drumming Group and other Indigenous representatives and organizations. Exact details for the 2024 event are TBC as of the end of May.

The event begins with the opening ceremonies at 10:00 am with local dignitaries. There is an official welcome and greeting, a few speeches and blessings. Singing and dancing follow.

Also at the event there are a number of artisan vendors selling Indigenous art, crafts and other items.