How to Celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day 2025 in Northeastern Ontario

June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day in Canada, a day to celebrate and recognize the diverse cultures, unique heritage and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. Here in Northeastern Ontario, celebrating Indigenous culture isn’t limited to just one day. Throughout National Indigenous History Month, the region comes alive with vibrant powwows, cultural events, interpretive hikes, and unforgettable hands-on experiences. 

Whether you want to attend a traditional powwow in North Bay, explore sacred sites near Lake Temiskaming, or book an Indigenous-owned eco-lodge near Manitoulin Island, this guide highlights seven meaningful ways to connect with Indigenous culture across Northeastern Ontario in 2025, with places to eat, stay, and explore nearby.

1. Experience the 17th Annual Maamwi Kindaaswin Pow Wow in North Bay

Celebrate Indigenous Culture with Drumming, Dancing, Food, and Art at Lee Park on June 7 & 8, 2025

About the Maamwi Kindaaswin Pow-Wow: The annual Maamwi Kindaaswin Pow Wow is hosted by the North Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre. Held at Lee Park, this vibrant, free, family-friendly event features a Grand Entry at noon both days, led by Eagle Staffs and community dignitaries. Enjoy traditional dancing, drumming, over 50 Indigenous vendors, and sacred fire teachings. Led by MC Bob Goulais, the event offers education, culture, and connection, with over 50 Indigenous vendors offering their wares, including Indigenous tacos and refreshing lemonade. Everyone is welcome to join in Inter-tribal dances, ask questions, and respectfully participate. Bring a lawn chair and water bottle—shuttles from Northgate Mall and water refill stations are available.

What to do nearby: There is lots to see and do in North Bay to celebrate Indigenous ingenuity all year long. The North Bay Museum features exhibits about pre-colonial life for the N’bisiing peoples, including some cool birchbark canoe displays. Check out Ever Cool Ice Cream's food truck beside the museum for some tasty treats. You can explore Nipissing First Nation’s directory to check out Indigenous-owned businesses in the area. Shop for traditional craft supplies at Supplies for the Soul or intricate beadwork and other artisanal crafts at 17HR Convenience, or dine on fresh locally caught pickerel at Jocko Point Fish & Chips.

If you’re in the area for a few days, head up to Long Sault Island for a guided canoe tour or traditional craft workshop at Algonquin Canoe Company on traditional Algonquin Territory.

Where to stay: Find cottages and motel accommodation at Mattawa Adventure Camp on the shores of the Upper Ottawa River, or cabins and tent or RV camping at Sid Turcotte Park on the Mattawa River. Le Voyageur Inn offers classic hotel comfort in a historic building. Discover four-season luxury eco-camping at Otter Pointe Resort on Pimisi Bay, or head to the west arm of Lake Nipissing where you’ll find Saenchiur Flechey Resort. Stay right in North Bay at a range of hotels, or indulge in boutique beachfront living at The Finch Beach Resort.

2. Experience the 4th Annual National Indigenous Peoples Day Powwow in North Cobalt 

Celebrate Indigenous Culture with Drumming, Dancing, Food, and Art at Mill Creek Cultural Grounds on June 21, 2025

About the Powwow: Join Keepers of the Circle on Saturday, June 21, 2025, for the 4th Annual National Indigenous Peoples Day Powwow at the scenic Mill Creek Cultural Grounds in North Cobalt, Ontario. Running from 10 am to 4 pm, the event features traditional drumming, dancing, and a Grand Entry at 10 am. Attendees can explore a variety of Indigenous food and craft vendors while enjoying the picturesque view of Lake Timiskaming. Hosted by Keepers of the Circle, an Indigenous-led organization operated by the Temiskaming Native Women's Support Group, this free, family-friendly celebration honors Indigenous culture, community, and resilience.

What to do nearby: Mani-doo Aja-bikong - Manitou Rock (meaning 'spiritual and fundamental life force' in Algonquian languages; known as Devil’s Rock in English) is a granite escarpment just south of Haileybury, where the cliffs rise 91m above Lake Timiskaming and extend nearly as far underwater. The stunning viewpoint is accessible via two hiking trails; one mostly flat and short, one a little longer and a little more effort. If you arrive by boat, there are five caves to explore!

Where to stay: An hour south of Cobalt, you’ll find Temagami Riverside Lodge, an off-grid, Indigenous-owned, family-friendly fishing lodge. Located on Red Cedar Lake in Marten River, they offer cabins with fully stocked kitchens, hot running water and bathrooms.

Other accommodations in the area include Maiden Bay Camp, Mowat Landing Cottages, and Les Suites des Presidents’ Suites.

3. Celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day / Nibin Giizhigaate-Giizhik at the Summer Solstice Pow Wow in Wiikwemkoong

A Full Day of Culture, Ceremony, and Celebration at Nimkii Bineshiinh Kaaning  (Thunderbird Park) on June 21, 2025

About the event: On June 21, Wiikwemkoong Tourism hosts a Summer Solstice Pow Wow as part of the Two Nations Cultural Experience in partnership with Six Nations Tourism. Set against the natural beauty of this unceded territory on Manitoulin Island, this event features a full day of drumming, dancing, and community connection. Highlights include the Unceded Journey tour and James Simon Mishibinijima Gallery Tour, Smoke Dance and Woodland Dance showcases, a Two Nations Culinary Experience featuring Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee chefs, and a Lacrosse and Baagaadowewin demonstration. This is your chance to engage deeply with Indigenous teachings, meet cultural ambassadors, and celebrate the strength, beauty, and resilience of First Nations communities.

Book Your Spot

What to do nearby: Make an appointment to view Indigenous artwork at Mishibinijima Private Art Gallery or discover museum exhibits, art exhibits, and cultural programs at the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation. Lillian’s Crafts features beautiful First Nations arts and crafts, such as hand-crafted quill boxes. Manitoulin Brewing Company in Little Current is also worth a visit for its great patio.

Head out on the water with Stillwater Fishing for a memorable family-friendly experience. They offer boat tours of McGregor Bay and Baie Fine, and daily fishing excursions with pro guides blending Indigenous culture and traditional methods. Come back on the third weekend in August for the Whitefish River Annual Powwow!

Where to stay: Just off Manitoulin on Birch Island, Among The Trees Glamping offers two stunning geodomes nestled in the trees of the boreal forest, complete with cozy living area, a kitchenette and breakfast bar, as well as a bathroom with running water. Each dome also comes with private outdoor showers and a sauna. Experience the natural world, and learn about Whitefish River First Nation! Explore nature, surrounding communities, and local shops and eats, or book an excursion with local tour guides. Or stay at the Manitoulin Hotel and Conference Centre in Little Current for modern comfort, stunning waterfront views, and easy access to Wiikwemkoong's cultural events.

4. Learn about Indigenous Heritage on the Amik Zii Bii Interpretive Trail at Point Grondine Park in Killarney

Anishinaabek History, Medicinal Plants, and Scenic Wilderness on a Self-Guided Hike

About the experience: On June 21 - or any day! - hike the Amik Zii Bii Interpretive Trail at Point Grondine Park to learn about the Indigenous connection to the land. This self-guided 3km hike shares teachings of the Indigenous uses of plants, and details the rich history of Anishinaabek in the area.

A recreational park owned and operated by Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory, Point Grondine Park spans over 18,000 acres of scenic natural wilderness landscape, old-growth pine forest, stunning river vistas and six interior lakes. Hike, canoe or sea kayak along the traditional routes of the Anishnaabek people and explore the lands and waters of the largest First Nation on Manitoulin Island.

What to do nearby: Wikwemikong Tourism offers authentic Indigenous experiences in Killarney and on Manitoulin Island reflecting the culture, history, spirit and traditions of the Anishinaabek people.

Where to stay: Enjoy camping in luxury with Point Grondine’s new off-grid eco-cabin Amikwa Gibaakwagan - the beaver house - which sleeps up to six. For family campers, the premium group sites 800m from the trailhead parking lot are equipped with two wooden tent platforms, fire pit, benches, cooking space and a picnic table and accommodate up to 10 people. There are also gorgeous backcountry sites throughout the park, accessible by hiking trails or by water.

5. Attend the 23rd Annual Dokis First Nation Traditional Pow Wow on June 28–29, 2025

Celebrate Indigenous Culture with Grand Entry Ceremonies, Drumming, Dancing, and a Community Feast at Giiwejwan Traditional Grounds

About the pow wow: The 23rd Annual Dokis First Nation Traditional Pow Wow takes place June 28 and 29, 2025, at the Giiwejwan Traditional Grounds. The event features drumming, traditional dancing, and community gatherings. Grand Entry ceremonies are scheduled for noon and 7 p.m. on Saturday and noon on Sunday. The event includes a Sunrise Ceremony and a community feast. The pow wow is open to all who wish to attend and rough camping is available.

What to do nearby: Camp Petawachuan is an Indigenous-owned ecotourism camp located deep in nature along the shores of the French River. Expeditions include boat tours, medicinal plant walks, guided fishing tours, music, art, and storytelling, all honouring connection with the land. You can visit the Dokis Museum for displays of Dokis history, local artwork and cultural life.

Where to stay: At Camp Petawachuan, choose between all-inclusive eco-adventure packages for the whole family, including a daily adventure, all meals and lodging, or fully furnished cabins with kitchen supplies, BBQ, stove, and fridge.

Riverview Cottages at Dokis First Nation is a quiet spot with seven cottages, ranging from 2 to 4 bedrooms, and all include a full kitchen, bathroom, satellite TV, internet, screened-in porch, BBQ and a view of the beautiful Upper French River.

6. Weengushk International Film Festival 2025 on Manitoulin Island

Celebrating Indigenous Legacy Makers Through Film, Workshops, and Performances in Aundeck Omni Kaning

About the event: The Weengushk International Film Festival, held July 18–20, 2025, at the Four Directions Complex in Aundeck Omni Kaning on Manitoulin Island, is an Indigenous-run event showcasing independent films from emerging and established Indigenous filmmakers. This year’s theme, “Legacy Makers: Honouring Chiefs Who Paved the Path Forward,” highlights the impact of Indigenous leaders through storytelling. The festival includes film screenings, workshops, musical performances, and special gala events, offering opportunities for cultural exchange and community connection.

Things to do nearby: Hike to the stunning Michigiwadinong, which means 'bluff in the shape of a spearhead' in Anishinaabemowin. In English it's known as the Cup and Saucer Trail, and is one of Manitoulin Island's most popular hikes. The 70m-high cliff is part of the Niagara Escarpment that stretches up the Bruce Peninsula and divides Lake Huron from Georgian Bay - the view from the top is a breathtaking 180-degree panorama all the way to the North Channel.

The trailhead is just past M'Chigeeng on Highway 540, so you can visit the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation to learn more about the culture and traditions of the Anishinaabe People of the Mnidoo Mnising (Manitoulin Island).

Where to stay: Indigenous-owned accommodations in the area range from a luxury hotel to cozy, lakefront cabins. The modern Manitoulin Hotel & Conference Centre is set on Lake Huron’s North Channel and steeped in the Island’s Indigenous cultures. You’ll find First Nations-inspired wood, stone, and textile décor in the comfortable, contemporary rooms. Enjoy stunning views of the LaCloche Mountain range and the North Channel.

On the tranquil shores of Lake Mindemoya, Island Sunrise Cottages offers cozy accommodations, fishing charters, paddling packages, and sightseeing tours. Off-Island, the historic Rainbow Lodge is located within view of the sacred area known to the Ojibwe people as “Dreamer’s Rock,” owned and operated by the Whitefish River First Nation.

7. Go for a paddle, eat maple syrup, pick strawberries, and learn which treaty land you’re on!

Anyday, anywhere in Northeastern Ontario

What would a weekend up north be like without a canoe? Or maple syrup on your pancakes? Or knowing which berries you can enjoy eating? Or the names and paths of rivers and lakes, the fish in them, and all our relations who make their homes in and on this land? For these beautiful gifts - and so many more - of knowledge, culture, medicine, and tradition we, as settlers in this territory, give thanks on National Indigenous Peoples Day.

Take a moment to learn about the complicated history of the canoe—and appreciate and acknowledge the gift.

In June, the full moon is called Odemiini-giizis or Miin-giizis in Anishinaabe: Strawberry, or berry, moon. Known as 'heart berry' because of its shape, the wild strawberry is an important food and medicine in many Indigenous cultures in North America.

Discover whose territory you are travelling on, and learn what you can do as a visitor to support that nation.

The region known as Northeastern Ontario is located over several treaty territories and unceded territories, including:

• Robinson-Huron Treaty territory and the traditional territory of the Atikameksheng Anishnaabeg and Nipissing First Nation Anishinaabe. Current communities in the area include Kirkland Lake and North Bay.
• Williams Treaties, which stretch from Lake Ontario to Lake Nipissing. The geography of these Treaties overlaps with several previous treaties.
• Treaty 9 (James Bay Treaty) territory and the traditional territory of Cree, Moose Cree, Ojibwe, Chippewa, Oji-Cree, Mushkegowuk (Cree) and Algonquin. Current communities in the area include over 14 First Nations, Hearst and Kapuskasing.
• The unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishnaabeg. Communities in the area include Mattawa and Temiskaming.
• Treaty 94 (Manitoulin Island Treaty) and the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe of Mnidoo Mnising. Current communities in the territory described by the written treaty include Little Current and Manitowaning. This area is adjacent to the Wiikwemikoong Unceded Territory.

Plan Your Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration in Ontario This Year 

We recognize and deeply appreciate the historic connection of these Nations to this place. We also recognize the contributions that Métis, Inuit, and other Indigenous peoples have made, both in shaping and strengthening this region in particular, and this province and country as a whole.

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