When you travel to Campbell River for a summer filled with family-friendly activities, you are visiting the unceded traditional territory of the Ligwiłda’xw (Laich-kwil-tach) people, specifically the We Wai Kai, Wei Wai Kum, and Kwiakah First Nations. While we encourage visitors to learn and reflect on the living history of the land they are on year-round, one of the best times to immerse in Indigenous culture is during June.
June is Indigenous History Month and June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day. A time to immerse in and celebrate Indigenous history and culture throughout the community.
Schedule of Events for Indigenous Peoples Day
This year’s National Indigenous Peoples Day events on Friday, June 21 will kick-off with the annual 5k run at the Campbell River Spit (Dick Murphy Park) at 8 am, followed by a pancake breakfast. Many attendees wear orange shirts in solidarity with residential school survivors.
After the run, you can head over to the Kwanwatsi Big House on the corner of Dogwood Street and 16th Avenue for the official Opening Ceremony for the day’s events at 10 am, which will feature speeches from community members and traditional dancing. At 11:30 am there will be the community March along the roads from the Big House to Spirit Square.
Join the celebrations in Downtown’s Spirit Square on Shopper’s Row from 11 am to 5 pm organized by local group the Laichwiltach Family Life Society. The Laichwiltach Family Life Society provides services rooted in culture, wellness, and healthcare for First Nations and Metis families. Lunch will be available from 12 to 1:30 pm.
From 1 to 4:30 pm, Spirit Square will be filled with live music and other performances along with plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained from 12 to 4:30 pm, including face painting, a Bounce O Rama, and plenty of games. Craft demonstrations will also take place in the Square throughout the day with traditional craft items for sale too. Take a moment to reflect on the excitement, learnings, and history of the day, and come together with the community for the official closing ceremony between 4:30 and 5 pm.
