When: June 21–22, 2025
Where: Wesley Clover Parks, Ottawa, ON
Set against the natural beauty of Ottawa’s west end, the Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival (SSIF) returns for 2025 with a vibrant, community-driven celebration of Indigenous culture, artistry, and tradition. Taking place from June 21–22, 2025, the event will be hosted at Wesley Clover Parks, a spacious new venue that allows for an expanded lineup of free programming, performances, workshops, and interactive experiences.
About the Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival
The Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival is a nationally recognized celebration of Indigenous Peoples’ contributions to Canada. Held annually in June to coincide with National Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21), the festival is more than just a cultural showcase—it is a space for reconciliation, education, and joyful community gathering.
Presented by Indigenous Experiences, this multi-day event honors First Nations, Métis, and Inuit cultures through live performances, Pow Wow competitions, culinary experiences, interactive workshops, artisan markets, and more.
At the heart of SSIF is the vision of a strong, inclusive future—where cultural heritage and economic opportunity grow side by side. The festival is free and open to all, creating a welcoming environment where visitors can experience the beauty, diversity, and resilience of Indigenous communities.
Why It Matters
The Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival is more than an event—it’s a movement of cultural revitalization, reconciliation, and connection. By bringing people together to celebrate Indigenous culture in all its forms, SSIF strengthens community bonds, fosters understanding, and supports the economic well-being of Indigenous artists, performers, and entrepreneurs.
Whether you’re a returning visitor or a first-time guest, SSIF 2025 invites you to witness, celebrate, and take part in the vibrant living cultures of Indigenous Peoples across Canada.
Festival Highlights
The 2025 program features an extraordinary variety of events designed to entertain, educate, and inspire:
Competition Pow Wow
An electrifying Pow Wow competition celebrating drumming, dance, and regalia. Everyone is welcome to experience this cultural gathering of community and tradition.
Celebration Stage (Presented by OLG)
Enjoy live performances from Indigenous musicians, dancers, and spoken-word artists across both days of the festival.
Indigenous Horse Experiences (Presented by Scotiabank)
Discover the sacred relationship between Indigenous Peoples and horses through storytelling, demonstrations, and hands-on activities.
Culinary Experience (Presented by TD & OCAF)
Taste authentic Indigenous cuisine and learn from celebrated Indigenous chefs through cooking demos and food tastings.
Marketplace (Presented by EDC)
Shop from a wide selection of Indigenous artisans and vendors offering handcrafted goods, jewelry, fashion, and more. Support Indigenous makers both onsite and year-round via the online marketplace or Mādahòkì Farm’s store.
Drone Show (Presented by Donna Cona & ITO)
A stunning night-sky drone performance lighting up Saturday evening with storytelling visuals rooted in Indigenous culture. (Weather permitting)
Family Fun Zone
Activities for kids of all ages, including games, interactive programming, and hands-on crafts.
Education Days (Presented by Écoles-catholiques Centre-Est)
A special program for school groups and learners of all ages, blending education with cultural appreciation.
Workshops & Demonstrations
Participate in traditional craft, art, and cultural skills taught by Indigenous knowledge keepers. Some workshops may require registration or purchase.
Admission & Accessibility
Free Admission
Everyone is welcome! While the event is free, voluntary donations are encouraged and can be made at info booths throughout the festival.
Accessibility
The venue offers accessible parking, washrooms, and pathways. A new accessible viewing tent at the Pow Wow ensures more guests can enjoy the experience. Note: Some areas may be on grass or sand, which could be challenging in wet weather.
Travel & Accommodation
Parking
Over 3,000 parking spaces available daily.
- Regular Vehicles: $10/day
- Bus/Large Vehicles: $25/day
Shuttle & Transit
- Festival shuttles from the campground and OC Transpo station
- Accessible via OC Transpo (Moodie Dr. bus stops)
- Taxis & ride shares (Uber, Lyft) available
Camping at Wesley Clover Parks Campground
Choose from tent, 15-amp, or 30-amp serviced sites.
Hotels
- Hyatt Place Ottawa West – Corporate Code: 175852
- Ramada by Wyndham Ottawa on the Rideau – Rate Plan Code: 061925SUM
Good to Know
Payments & Tickets
Workshops and food vendors may have extra fees. Debit/credit accepted in most locations. ATMs on site. Only purchase tickets directly from SSIF—third-party tickets will not be honored.
Pets
No pets allowed (except service animals). Do not leave pets in vehicles.
Alcohol & Smoking
No alcohol or illegal substances. Designated smoking areas only.
Water
Water refill stations available. Bring a reusable bottle!
Final Thoughts
The Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival is a vibrant celebration of culture, tradition, and community. With something for everyone—from captivating music performances and traditional ceremonies to workshops, food, and art—this event is a powerful gathering that brings people together. Whether you’re attending solo or with your family, the festival offers meaningful ways to connect, learn, and celebrate Indigenous heritage. As you plan your visit, embrace the opportunity to witness the beauty and strength of Indigenous cultures in a setting that honors both the past and the present.
Stay Connected
🔗 Visit summersolsticefestivals.ca
📱 Follow on Facebook and Instagram
Sponsorships
Support the festival while demonstrating your organization’s commitment to reconciliation and Indigenous cultures. For more information, visit https://summersolsticefestivals.ca
Celebrate culture. Embrace community. Experience the Summer Solstice.
