When: Saturday, June 21, 2025
Where: Fort York National Historic Site, 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto
Time: Grand Entry at 12:00 p.m. | Festivities until 5:00 p.m.
Admission: Free and open to the public
Set in the heart of downtown Toronto at the historic Fort York National Historic Site, this year’s Na Me Res Pow Wow is a vibrant community celebration in honour of National Indigenous Peoples Day. From noon until late afternoon, the event brings together Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in a joyful display of culture, tradition, and unity.
About Na-Me-Res
Na-Me-Res (Native Men’s Residence) is a culture-based organization in Toronto dedicated to supporting homeless men through a holistic approach that addresses physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. Its mission is to provide outreach, housing, and support services to individuals in need, offering both immediate assistance and long-term solutions. Na-Me-Res operates several key facilities, including an emergency shelter at 14 Vaughan Road and Sagatay, a transitional residence nearby that focuses on life skills, cultural teachings, and health education.
With a vision rooted in securing stable and affordable housing, Na-Me-Res empowers individuals to achieve their goals and live mino bimaadiziwin—“the good life.” The organization provides supportive programming through email services, counseling, and cultural reconnection to help individuals regain control of their lives. Their permanent housing initiatives, like Golden Eagle Landing and O’Gitchidaa Mushkiki Wigwam, further extend their impact by providing accessible homes for those transitioning from shelters.
Na-Me-Res protects the privacy and dignity of all who seek help, and it continues to lead innovative programs like Ontario’s first Indigenous-led Managed Alcohol Program. If you or someone you know could benefit from their service, you can contact Na-Me-Res by phone or through their website’s email services page to learn more or get support.
About the Pow Wow
Hosted by Na-Me-Res (Native Men’s Residence), this annual Pow Wow is more than just a cultural event—it’s a day of recognition, reconciliation, and celebration. With a focus on Indigenous heritage, it offers the public a chance to experience firsthand the richness of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis traditions.
Each year, thousands gather on June 21 to take part in this free, family-friendly event. The Na-Me-Res Pow Wow features traditional dancing, drumming, and singing, along with craft and food vendors. Community booths line the festival grounds, sharing resources and celebrating resilience, knowledge, and connection.
Why It Matters
The Na-Me-Res Pow Wow stands as a living expression of culture and identity. In a world that continues to reckon with its colonial past, events like this are crucial in celebrating Native voices and fostering cross-cultural understanding.
Held on National Indigenous Peoples Day, the Pow Wow aligns with a nationwide movement of cultural pride and public education. It highlights the strength, beauty, and continued presence of Native nations on this land. For many, it is a powerful day of reconnection—with culture, with community, and with the land itself.
What to Expect
This year’s Na-Me-Res Pow Wow will feature:
- Grand Entry at 12:00 p.m. — A breathtaking ceremonial procession of dancers, Elders, and veterans
- Traditional and contemporary drumming and singing
- Cultural dance performances by dancers in full regalia
- Food vendors offering traditional Indigenous cuisine
- Craft booths showcasing handmade art, jewelry, and more
- Information booths representing community services and local organizations
Whether it’s your first Pow Wow or your fiftieth, you’re invited to witness, learn, and celebrate. Everyone is welcome.
Getting There
The Na-Me-Res Pow Wow is easily accessible by public transit:
- Take the TTC to Exhibition GO Station or travel to Bathurst Street.
- Nearby streetcars: 511 Bathurst and 509 Harbourfront
- Full directions can be found at toronto.ca/fortyork
Address:
Fort York National Historic Site
250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto, ON
Stay Connected
Join us in the countdown! For updates, schedules, announcements and general news about the event, RSVP and follow the official Na-Me-Res Facebook page.
To learn more about Na-Me-Res and its mission to support Indigenous men experiencing homelessness, visit the official website at nameres.org.
Final Thoughts
As one of Toronto’s most beloved Indigenous cultural events, the Na-Me-Res Pow Wow is a moving annual celebration of strength, history, and future. Mark your calendars for June 21, and be part of a powerful day that brings together community, culture, and connection.
Come with curiosity, leave with a deeper appreciation of traditions and the stories they carry.
Join the circle. Celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day. Experience the Na-Me-Res Pow Wow.
