The summer solstice brought vibrant energy to Fort York National Historic Site yesterday as hundreds gathered for the annual Indigenous Peoples Day Pow Wow. Under perfect blue skies, the historic grounds transformed into a celebration of Indigenous resilience, artistry, and community connection.
“This land has always been a gathering place,” explained Elder Constance Sault from the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. “Long before Fort York existed, these shores welcomed Indigenous nations for trade and ceremony. Today continues that tradition.”
The event featured over 40 dancers in regalia representing nations from across Turtle Island. Competitive dancing categories included traditional, fancy, jingle dress, and grass dance styles, with participants ranging from elders to tiny tots just learning their first dance steps.
For Toronto resident Marissa Wong, attending with her family for the first time, the experience was eye-opening. “We’ve lived near Fort York for years but never really understood the Indigenous history here. Watching these dances and hearing the stories makes history come alive in a way textbooks never could.”
The Pow Wow coincided with the summer solstice, a significant day in many Indigenous calendars and now officially recognized as National Indigenous Peoples Day across Canada. The timing holds particular significance at Fort York, where the complex history between Indigenous nations and European settlers is palpable.
Site Manager Carlos Mendez emphasized this context: “Fort York represents both military history and a colonial past that profoundly impacted Indigenous communities. Hosting this Pow Wow helps acknowledge that complete history while celebrating the living cultures that continue to thrive.”
Beyond the dance circle, the event featured an Indigenous marketplace with twenty-three vendors selling everything from handcrafted jewelry to traditional foods. Workshops on traditional medicine, beadwork, and storytelling attracted curious visitors throughout the day.
Local business owner Janine Redsky, who sold her handcrafted moccasins and beadwork at the market, noted increased interest in Indigenous arts. “Five years ago, I struggled to make a living as an artist. Now people are genuinely interested in authentic Indigenous crafts and the stories behind them.”
The Pow Wow also spotlighted contemporary Indigenous issues. Information booths staffed by community organizations provided resources on language revitalization, climate action, and urban Indigenous services.
According to Statistics Canada, Toronto is home to over 70,000 people who identify as First Nations, Métis, or Inuit – the largest Indigenous population of any city in Ontario. Despite this significant presence, many Indigenous residents report feeling invisible within the broader urban landscape.
“Events like this create essential visibility,” explained Anishinaabe educator James Wabano. “When we dance, drum, and sing in public spaces, we remind everyone that Indigenous peoples aren’t historical figures – we’re your neighbors, colleagues, and fellow Torontonians.”
For seven-year-old dancer Miikwan Keesis, who performed in the tiny tots category, the day represented both personal achievement and cultural connection. “I practice all year for this,” she said shyly, adjusting her jingle dress. “My kokum (grandmother) made my dress and taught me the steps.”
The Fort York Pow Wow has grown steadily since its inception in 2018, with attendance nearly doubling this year. City Councillor Ana Bailão attributed this growth to increased awareness about Indigenous histories following the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s work.
“Toronto has committed to advancing reconciliation, but that requires more than just land acknowledgments,” Bailão noted. “Supporting Indigenous-led cultural events provides spaces where learning and healing can happen naturally.”
As the summer sun began its descent, the powerful voices of women singers filled the air during a special honor song. Spectators stood respectfully as dancers moved in unison, their regalia catching the golden light.
Master of Ceremonies Stan Constant reminded attendees that while the Pow Wow welcomes visitors of all backgrounds, it remains fundamentally a cultural celebration rather than a performance. “We appreciate everyone coming to learn, but remember this is our ceremony, not a show. The protocols we follow connect us to ancestors who kept these traditions alive despite tremendous pressure to abandon them.”
The day concluded with a community feast featuring traditional foods including Three Sisters stew, bannock, and fresh berries.
For Fort York visitor services coordinator Teresa Williams, the event exemplifies how historic sites can become spaces for contemporary cultural expression. “This isn’t just about commemorating the past. It’s about recognizing that Indigenous cultures are living, evolving traditions that continue to shape our city.”
The Fort York Indigenous Peoples Day Pow Wow will return next June, with organizers already planning expanded programming and additional space for vendors.
