National Indigenous Peoples Day
National Indigenous Peoples Day honours the diverse cultures, traditions and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples across Turtle Island. This year's celebration offers an afternoon of drumming, singing, dancing, story sharing, hands on workshops, cultural learning, and community connection for all ages.
Presented by the Kingston Native Centre and Language Nest, with support from the City of Kingston.
Admission to this event is free.
When and where?
Sunday, June 21, 2026, at Confederation Park (216 Ontario St.) from 1 to 6 p.m.
Activities
- A Sacred Fire and opportunities for reflection and connection
- Community booths featuring interactive activities, cultural teachings, demonstrations, and opportunities to engage with local organizations
- Drumming, singing, dancing, story sharing, and cultural learning throughout the day
- Hands on workshops and activities for all ages
- A Kids Zone featuring an inflatable corn maze, Oshki Face Painting, and family friendly activities
- Adelitas Kingston, Momochtli Popcorn and other delicious food offerings
- Artisan vendors showcasing Indigenous arts, crafts, and handmade goods
- Giveaways and opportunities to connect with community throughout the celebration
Transportation
Residents and visitors are encouraged to use public transit to attend National Indigenous Peoples Day. Use the Kingston Transit Trip Planner to find your way there!
Parking
There is limited street parking around Confederation Park and Ontario Street will be closed.
There are multiple options for parking, all located less than a 10-minute walk away from City Hall, including surface lots, parking garages and on-street parking.
You can use the HonkMobile app to find and pay for street parking in Kingston. Street parking is free evenings, Sundays and statutory holidays.
Accessibility information
- Confederation Park is fully accessible. Some activities will take place on grassy areas.
- Accessible public washrooms are available in the Visitor Information Centre in Confederation Park. Additional accessible washrooms are located inside City Hall where there is one single-stall non-gendered restroom.
- Water bowls will be available for service dogs at the Special Events Office information booth.
If you have any specific accessibility needs, please email specialeventsoffice@cityofkingston.ca
Washrooms
There are accessible public washrooms on site at the Visitor Information Centre in Confederation Park. Accessible portables and handwashing stations are also available on site.
There are additional public washrooms in the lower level of City Hall, accessible from both the courtyards, and there is a ramp via the north entrance off Brock Street.
Weather
This event happens rain or shine. The event will only be cancelled if it becomes unsafe to be outside. Some activities may need to stop temporarily if it is raining but will start again when it is safe to do so.
The City of Kingston acknowledges that we are on the traditional homeland of the Anishinabek, Haudenosaunee, and the Huron-Wendat, and thanks these nations for their care and stewardship over this shared land.
Today, the City is committed to working with Indigenous peoples and all residents to pursue a united path of reconciliation.
Learn more about the City's reconciliation initiatives.
