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Our picks for Indigenous-Led Events happening in October
Check out our monthly digest of Indigenous-Led Events happening in October.
Art Shows/Exhibitions
Barrie
October 15th – Living Art Exhibit: Indigenous Art Showcase
Indigenous artists will share, showcase, and exhibit their artwork at this Living Art Exhibit in Barrie. Attendees can converse directly with the artists and learn firsthand about the stories behind their artwork and displays.
Where: MacLaren Art Centre, 37 Mulcaster St, Barrie, ON
When: October 15th, 1:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Admission: Free.
Gravenhurst
September 27th to October 27th – Indigenous Ingenuity Travelling Exhibition
Science North brings its traveling exhibition to Gravenhurst from September 27th to October 27th. This exhibition showcases and celebrates the diversity, interconnectedness, and resourceful ways of the Indigenous community while showcasing the incredible innovations of Indigenous peoples.
Science North recommends booking visits for groups larger than 10 in advance. Admission and Parking is free. Interested parties can register in groups here.
Where: Muskoka Discovery Centre, 275 Steamship Bay Road, Gravenhurst
When: September 27th to October 27th, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Admission: Free. See event information here.
London
October 4th – See Me: Celebrating the 10-Year Anniversary Exhibit by Atlohsa Family Healing Services
Join Atlohsa Family Healing Services at an art exhibition commemorating the 10th anniversary of the See Me exhibit. This interactive art installation pays homage to MMIWG, aiming for safer communities for Indigenous women.
Where: Museum London, 421 Ridout Street North, London, ON N6A 5H4
When: October 4th, 6:00 am – 9:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
Toronto
October 8th – Heart Berry Mural Unveiling Celebration & Ravine Days Activities by STEPS Public Art
Join STEPS Public Art for a fun day of art activities and community celebrations to welcome a new mural that animates the entrance to the Humber River Trail and Rowntree Mills Ravine system developed by Indigenous artist & community developer Lindsey Lickers. This family-friendly event will feature refreshments, reflection and teachings, spoken word performances, a park walk, and more!
You can view the event times and schedule here
Where: 2 Rowntree Road Toronto, ON M9V 5G6
When: October 8th, 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here
St. Catharines
October 4th – The Circle: Honouring Sisters in Spirit
This special edition of this event is a musical showcase of upcoming and established Indigenous artists at the picturesque Robertson Theatre.
You can find more information on the event here.
Where: FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre, 250 St. Paul Street, St. Catharines, ON
When: October 4th, 7:00 am – 9:00 pm
Admission: Free.
Community Events
Aurora
October 24th – An Evening With Lesley Hampton
Anishinaabe Artist, Fashion Designer, and Creative Director of eponymous brand Lesley Hampton leads a conversation on mental health awareness, body positivity, and authentic representation of women in fashion and media. Lesley Hampton aims to create space for empowerment and expression in fashion, media, and beauty.
You can register for the event here
Where: Aurora Public Library, 15145 Yonge Street Aurora, ON L4G 1M1
When: October 24th, 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
Barrie
October 14th – The Giving Tree: A Retelling of a Traditional Metis Story
Metis podcast producer Samantha Loney retells the traditional Metis story of The Giving Tree. This story’s themes revolve around kindness, giving back, and reciprocity.
Kids will create a craft to leave as a gift for the tree and receive one in return. This event is suited for kids ages 4-9
Where: 64 Cedar Pointe Drive #unit 1401 Barrie, ON L4N 5R7
When: October 14th, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
Cambridge
October 5th – All Nations Indigenous Led Drumming Circle by McDougall Cottage Historic Site
Join for a night of McDougall Cottage Historic Site community members for a fun night of All Nations Indigenous Drumming Circle led by Kelly Welch.
In Indigenous culture, the drum voices a connection to all creation, and the circle represents balance and equality, wholeness and associations. When we drum together, we strengthen our relationship to all living things and each other.
Where: McDougall Cottage Historic Site, 89 Grand Avenue South Cambridge, ON N1S 2L7
When: October 5th, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
Gadshill
October 7th- Aspens Ojibwe Horse Sanctuary Visit
Aspens Ojibwe Horse Sanctuary invites you to their Open Day to visit and interact with endangered and unique breeds of Ojibwe Spirit Horses. Attendees will learn about the story of the dramatic rescue of the last four mares decades ago and how the breed fares today.
Where: 2624 Line 47 Gadshill, N0K1J0
When: October 7th, 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Admission: Free.
Kitchener
October 1st – Gi Zhawenimin Recognition Feast
Gi Zhawenimin, an organization that promotes and facilitates permanent connections, safety, and belonging for Indigenous youth who are vulnerable, at risk, in care or kinship, have aged out of the system or have lost family connections, invites you to a feast and recognition event just in time for the fall season.
This event features a ceremony, sacred fire, and drumming by local Spirit Nation Singers, a youth drum group.
There will also be corn soup, friendly conversations, and stories from community youth members. Attendees are invited to bring a potluck dish and feast bundle to the celebration.
Where: 80 Schneider Avenue Kitchener, ON N2G 1K9
When: October 1st, 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
Ottawa
October 1st – Store Grand Opening by Manitobah
Manitobah, an Indigenous-owned clothing brand, invites you to join them for their Grand Opening at the St.Laurent Centre, featuring electrifying performances by talented Indigenous artists and performers.
Experience the rhythm and soul of Indigenous dances and the power of traditional songs, and be moved by the storytelling through dance passed through generations. This event is also a tribute to the rich and diverse Indigenous cultures that encompass Manitobah ‘s values.
Where: St. Laurent Shopping Centre, 1200 Saint Laurent Boulevard Ottawa, ON K1K 3B8
When: October 1st, 1:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
October 14th – Indigenous storytelling: “Stories Told Are a Culture Shared” by Ottawa StoryTellers
Join Ottawa StoryTellers as they showcase a documentary: Stories Told Are a Culture Shared. In this documentary, local Indigenous storytellers discuss the importance of stories in the Indigenous cultures of Turtle Island.
Where: New Edinburgh Park Fieldhouse, 203 Stanley Ave, Ottawa, ON K1M 1P2
When: October 14th, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Admission: TBA
Owen Sound
October 13th – Kegedonce Press 30th Anniversary Celebration
Canada’s longest-running dedicated Indigenous publisher, Kegedonce Press, celebrates 30 years of publishing beautiful books by Indigenous authors at the Grey Roots Museum.
Renowned publisher, editor, and author Kateri Akiwenzie-Damm, Acclaimed poet D.A. Lockhart, and illustrator, graphic novelist, and poet Neal Shannacappo will have a fireside chat about Indigenous books and publishing. Jennifer David, co-host of the Storykeepers Podcast, will moderate this discussion.
Attendees will receive a swag bag with a free Kegedonce Press book, discount coupons, and other goodies.
There will also be refreshments, snacks and drinks, book sales, author signings, and a fantastic venue.
Where: Grey Roots Museum & Archives, Grey County Road 18 Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N6
When: October 13th, 6:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $31. Grab your tickets here
Sudbury
October 11th – A Journey of Resilience: Celebrating 25 Years of Indigenous Wellbeing by Shkagamik-Kwe Health Centre
Shkagamik-Kwe Health Centre, an Aboriginal Health Access Centre dedicated to balanced and healthy lifestyles for the First Nations, Métis, and Inuit individuals and their families in the Greater City of Sudbury, celebrates its 25th anniversary!
This event provides a wholesome cultural experience, a celebration video, entertainment, live performances, delicious Indigenous cuisines, a silent auction, and more! The event headline is the winner of the 2023 Canadian Juno Award Contemporary Indigenous Group of the Year – Digging Roots.
Where: Caruso Club, 385 Haig Street, Greater Sudbury, ON P3C 1C5
When: October 11th, 5:00 pm – 10:30 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $28. Grab your tickets here
Toronto
October 1st – Two-Eyed Seeing on the Humber; Explore the Salmon Runs by Water Allies
Water Allies, a hub for water issues at New College within the University of Toronto, invites you to an InTO Ravines community event that merges Anishinabek and Western Science perspectives on the salmon runs.
At this event, attendees will see the salmon run and learn more about the salmon, be hands-on with Water Rangers: learn how to test the water and join in an art project led by Star Nahwegahbo (Earth Works Visions)
Where: 125 Lawrence Ave W Weston Lions Park Toronto, ON M9N 1H7
When: October 1st, 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
October 3rd and 17th – Drum Circle: Led by Spirit Wind by Waakebiness Institute
This drum circle, led by Spirit Wand, brings together community members for a unique, serene, and community-based experience.
In Indigenous culture, the drum voices a connection to all creation, and the circle represents balance and equality, wholeness and associations. When we drum together, we strengthen our relationship to all living things and each other.
Where: Ashkaakamigokwe-wiigamig (Mother Earth Learning Lodge), 20 Willcocks Street Toronto, ON M5S 1C6
When: October 3rd and 17th, 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
October 4th – Urban Indigenous Justice Strategy by Aboriginal Legal Services
Join Aboriginal Legal Services for their Urban Indigenous Justice Strategy event that aims to address the unique challenges faced by Indigenous communities living in urban areas. Discussions during this event will center around and explore various strategies and initiatives to promote justice, equality, and empowerment for urban Indigenous individuals.
There will be lunch and a sacred fire.
Where: Evergreen Brick Works, 550 Bayview Avenue Toronto, ON M4W 3X8
When: October 4th, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
October 15th – “Indigenous Enough” by Mindful Managers
The founder of Mindful Managers, Vanessa Lesperance, hosts an online circle for individuals searching, questioning, learning, un-learning, and craving a sense of belonging within the Indigenous communities.
At this event, you will
Be welcomed to the circle pleasantly.
Circle check-in and have the opportunity to introduce yourself to the group.
Participate in a group sharing session in large or small break-out circles.
Participate in a journal/reflection activity for a chance to connect to self (bring a pen and paper!)
Close the circle with community members through reflection
Where: Online
When: October 15th, 9:00 am – 10:30 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
Vaughan
October 4th – Sisters in Spirit Vigil at Vaughan City Hall
The City of Vaughan invites members of the public to learn and express solidarity and grief over generations of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people at the Vaughan City Hall for the second year. Edebwed Ogichidaa Kwe , or She who speaks the truth (known as Elder Valarie King in English) from the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, will lead the Sisters in Spirit Vigil.
Where: Vaughan City Hall, 2141 Major Mackenzie Drive, Vaughan, ON
When: October 4th, 11:30 am – 1:30 pm
Admission: Free.
Educational Workshops and Wellness Events
Barrie
October 4th – Lunch and Learn: Friendship Centre Movement with Samantha Kinoshameg
Samantha Kinoshameg, Executive Director of the Barrie Native Friendship Centre for the previous seven years, covers the history of the Friendship Centre movement in Canada, the unique and vital role that Friendship Centres have in building and strengthening communities, and the relationships and connections that grow from these community centers. You can view more information about the event here.
Where: Aurora Public Library, 15145 Yonge Street Aurora, ON L4G 1M1
When: October 4th, 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm
Admission: Free
Guelph
October 21st and 22nd – “We Remember” Beaded Poppy Workshop with Naomi Smith (Chippewas of Nawash) by Guelph Museums
Guelph Museums presents a 2-day workshop that offers traditional teachings and an introduction to Indigenous beading techniques and working with deer hide.
Participants will
Experience the No Word for Art exhibition: Exploring the Indigenous Roots of Creativity, curated by Naomi Smith.
Visit McCrae House to centre the practice of beading and remembrance in the story of Lt. Col. John McCrae and the First World War.
Participants should bring a basic sewing kit, a beading mat, small flat-nose pliers, small scissors, a thimble, and a magnifier.
Where: Guelph Civic Museum, 52 Norfolk Street, Guelph, ON N1H 4H8
When: October 21st and 22nd, View events times and schedule here
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $158. Grab your tickets here
London
October 3rd – Indigenizing Spaces by Public Humanities at Western
The Forest City Gallery and the Office of Indigenous Initiatives present “Indigenizing Spaces,” a conversation on what it means to integrate Indigenous culture into public spaces and Canadian communities. The conversation panel will feature
Host: Sheri Nault (Metis artist, Assistant Professor – Studio Arts, Western University)
Mike Cywink (Anishinaabe artist)
Paula Hedgepeth (Office of Indigenous Initiatives)
Laura Ramirez (Office of Indigenous Initiatives)
Where: Forest City Gallery, 1025 Elias Street London, ON N5W 3P6
When: October 3rd, 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
Ottawa
October 12th -ADAAWE Indigenous Business Hub: 1st Year Anniversary by ADAAWE Indigenous Business Hub
ADAAWE, a co-working and community hub for Indigenous entrepreneurs, creators, and business owners in Ottawa-Centre, celebrates its first anniversary. This event will provide the opportunity to network, a showcase of Indigenous entrepreneurs, insights from community members, good vibes, and lots more!
Where: Adaawe Indigenous Business Hub, 338 Somerset Street West #1 Ottawa, ON K2P 0J9
When: October 12th, 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
St.Catharines
October 12th – Indigenous Programming Launch by Brock University
Brock University presents a launch of its leadership in Indigenous programming for personal, professional, and organizational development. This unique programming launch marks the university’s deepening commitment to the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action and expanding the learning opportunities from and with Brock.
Participants will
Learn about Indigenous Leadership Insights from an Indigenous Leader,
Connect with Inuk culture & insights during the Guest Talk from a person of Inuk heritage,
Being the first to hear about upcoming Indigenous Programming from Brock,
Listen to Table Talk discussions for workplace practices that are inclusive for Indigenous peoples,
Explore programming for career development, inclusive workplaces, and custom training connected to decolonization and reconciliation.
There will be lunch and snacks throughout the event
Where: Brock University- Pond Inlet, St.Catharines, L2S3A1
When: October 12th, 11:30 am – 3:30 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $49. Grab your tickets here.
Temiskaming Shores
October 14th – “Maawanji’idiwag: They Come Together” Workshop & Talk with Chelsea Smith
Join Creative in Residence Chelsea Smith for an artist talk and experiential workshop exploring natural pigments on paper crafted by the artist.
This program is a part of the Creatives In Residence series by Ontario Culture Days.
Where: Temiskaming Art Gallery, 325 Farr Drive Temiskaming Shores, ON P0J 1K0
When: October 14th, 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
Terra Cotta
October 25th to 26th – Indigenizing Health Symposium 2023: Nations Gathering on the Land by Waakebiness Institute for Indigenous Health
Waakebiness Institute for Indigenous Health (WBIIH), Ontario Network Environment for Indigenous Health Research(ON NEIHR) , and Indigenous Mentorship Network of Ontario (IMN-Ontario) partner to host a 2-day Indigenizing Health Symposium. This event shares knowledge and fosters dialogue and collaboration about Indigenous health and land-based healing while bringing together a diverse group of keynote speakers who will deliver presentations and facilitate workshops at the Hart House Farm.
Attendees can participate in the ceremony and other cultural activities throughout the two-day event. Indigenous scholars, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and graduate students will share their insights regarding the importance of policy grounded in Indigenous Knowledge and the processes of increasing the accessibility of policy work to the Indigenous community. The event is open to academics, health professionals, students, and community members.
Where: Hart House Farm, 15911 Terra Cotta, ON L7C 3G8
When: October 25th to 26th, View events times and schedule here
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $81. Grab your tickets here
Thunder Bay
October 24th to 26th – First Nations Housing Conference
Hosted by the First Nations Housing Community, The First Nations Housing Conference is Canada’s largest and longest-running First Nations housing conference. The conference is by First Nations, for First Nations, to bridge gaps between industry, government, and First Nations to provide sustainable housing for Indigenous communities.
Where: Valhalla Inn, Thunder Bay
When: October 24th to 26th, View events times and schedule here
Admission: Priced. Various price packages are available. Grab your tickets here.
Toronto
October 4th – City of Toronto Career Fair for Black & Indigenous City-Builders
The City of Toronto hosts a career fair for Black and Indigenous professionals and post-graduate students to explore career opportunities in the city’s Infrastructure Services area!
Join the City of Toronto’s Career Fair for Black and Indigenous City-Builders to learn about the opportunities available within divisions such as Transportation Services, Municipal Licensing & Standards, Fleet Services, and more.
Where: Metro Hall, Ground Floor Rotunda, 55 John Street Toronto, ON M5V 0C4
When: October 4th, 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve a spot here
October 12th – Truth and Reconciliation Commission Workshop by CRRF
The Canadian Race Relations Foundation, a Crown corporation committed to fighting racism in Canada, hosts a virtual workshop on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
This workshop covers topics on Canada’s Indigenous Policy, the Indian Residential Settlement Agreement, and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). You can view additional information about the event here.
Where: Online
When: October 12th, 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
October 16th – How to Cover Indigenous Stories as a Non-Indigenous Journalist by the Uproot Project
The Uproot Project and the Indigenous Journalists Association partner to host a panel discussion that details how reporters can best cover Indigenous communities and why having Indigenous reporters in newsrooms is essential. Christine Trudeau, the Indigenous Journalists Association president, will moderate the panel.
You can view more information on the panel participants and discussion here.
Where: Online
When: October 16th, 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
October 23rd – Indigenous Cultural Competency Training October 2023 by Native Canadian Centre of Toronto
This training workshop provides a foundation for understanding Indigenous people’s and Canadians’ unique relationships. This training intends to promote change within the individual, workplace, organization, and community by providing an overview of Indigenous worldviews, enhancing self-awareness through experiential learning, and increasing knowledge of historical contexts.
Attendees will be able to understand better how to establish healthy relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada and more. You can view additional information on the program here.
Where: Native Canadian Centre of Toronto, 16 Spadina Road Toronto, ON M5R 2S7
When: October 23rd, 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Admission: Tickets go for $249. Grab your tickets here
October 26th and 27th – Mental Health First Aid Workshop by Miziwe Biik
This Certificate-Based Mental Health Aid Workshop provides an in-depth understanding of mental health and the factors that can affect a person’s well-being, including
Practical skills to spot the triggers and signs of mental health issues
Confidence to step in, reassure, and support a person in distress.
Enhanced interpersonal skills such as non-judgmental listening.
Knowledge to help someone recover their health by guiding them to further support – whether that’s self-help resources, through their employer, or health care practitioner.
Workshop participants must identify as Indigenous (First Nations, Métis, Inuit) and reside within the Greater Toronto Area.
Location: 167 Gerrard St E, Toronto, ON M5A 2E4
Event Times: October 26th and 27th, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Admission: Free. Register here
Entrepreneurial Events
October 4th – Public Sector Buyers’ Expo for Indigenous businesses by Procurement Assistance Canada
Procurement Assistance Canada hosts an exposition that provides an opportunity for Indigenous suppliers to meet with buyers and network with federal procurement agents. You can view more information about the event here.
Where: Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health, 299 Montréal Road Ottawa, ON K1L 7G1
When: October 4th, 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
Farmers Markets
Toronto
Deeply Rooted Farmers Market
Deeply Rooted Farmers Market focuses on exclusively highlighting Black and Indigenous vendors within the country. This market allows health-conscious and socially conscious consumers to purchase locally sourced, locally produced quality food and products from Black and Indigenous vendors.
Vendor Application: Open. Apply here
Location: 455 Cosburn Ave, East York, ON M4J 2N2
Season Dates: Every Sunday from May 29th- October 15th
Market Time: 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
Apply to be a volunteer here
Festivals
Ottawa
October 14th and 15th – Tagwàgi (Autumn) Festival
Tagwàgi Festival is a celebration of all things Indigenous in Ottawa.
The event promotes and provides authentic Indigenous programming, an Indigenous Makers and Farmers Market, interactive creative workshops, culinary delights, and a chance to meet the rare Ojibwe Spirit Ponies!
Where: Mādahòkì Farm, 4420 West Hunt Club Road Ottawa, ON K2R 1E7
When: October 14th to 15th, View events times and schedule here
Admission: Free
Toronto
October 17th to 29th – imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival
imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival is the largest presenter of Indigenous screen content, including media and arts worldwide. This event provides an immersive showcase of film, video content, digital & interactive content, and audio works created by Indigenous artists.
Where: Various
When: October 17th to 29th, View events times and schedule here
Admission: Priced. Various Price Packages Available. Grab your tickets here.
Tours
October 2nd – Reconciling History Walking Tours – Downtown Ottawa by Assembly of Seven Generations (A7G)
The Reconciling History Walking Tours is a walking route in downtown Ottawa. Each point of interest along the route is an opportunity to learn about the role of non-Indigenous peoples and the federal government in residential schools and the lessons from history to address contemporary injustices experienced by Indigenous peoples.
Come take part in the Reconciling History Walking Tour to learn about this important story.
Where: Sparks Street, Ottawa
When: October 2nd, 10:00 pm – 12:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
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