National Indigenous Peoples’ Day
National Indigenous Peoples’ Day is a national celebration of the heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding achievements of First Nations, Inuit and Métis throughout Canada. Huronia Historical Parks is proud to be a part of highlighting the achievements of Indigenous peoples through our education-focused celebration each year.
About National Indigenous Peoples’ Day
For generations, many Indigenous communities have celebrated their culture and heritage on or near this day due to the significance of the summer solstice as the longest day of the year. It has been a nationally recognized day since 1996. Sainte-Marie has been marking National Indigenous Peoples’ Day since its official inception.
Date and time for in-person
Date: June 21, 2024
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tickets: Admission is $12, tax included, per person. Children five and under are free. Indigenous persons are free with valid ID. Season pass holders get free admission. Ontario educators get free admission with Valid ID.
Contact reservationshhp@ontario.ca about admission rates for education programs.
Time activities
- Large drum: Smoke Trail Cultural Group – 11 a.m. noon, 1:30 p.m. and and 2:30 p.m.
- Hand drum performances: Chris Walser – 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.
- Gathering ceremonies – 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
- Waterway demonstrations – 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.
- Storytelling and firestarting – 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
- Canoe demonstrations – noon and 1:30 p.m.
All-day activities
- Interactive giant treaties map
- Coppersmithing and blacksmithing demonstrations
- Lacrosse speed net challenge & demonstrations
- Meet pro lacross player Brad Kri
- Indigenous crafts and games
- Cornhusk figure workshop
- Tasting three-sisters soup
- Survival in the bush wilderness training
- Discovery Harbour Métis display
- Local Métis storyteller (French and English)
- Georgian Bay Islands National Park demonstrations
- Sainte-Marie historical video
Can’t attend in person?
Check out the FREE online event! With workshops, seminars and demonstrations by Indigenous experts, it’s a great opportunity to learn about Indigenous cultures virtually. All you need to do is register.
Image gallery
Please click each image below to see a larger version.
Indigenous artisans
We invite First Nations, Inuit and Métis artisans and crafters to contact us to apply for a vendor space during this event. There is no vendor fee for qualifying applicants. Email reservationshhp@ontario.ca or fill out our application form.
Educational programming
Help bring the achievements and diversity of Indigenous peoples to life for your students! Bring your class to Sainte-Marie among the Hurons for a day of hands-on learning, fun, and discussion, or book a digital program and let us bring history to you.
Please note:
- There is no introductory slideshow presentation in the theatre this year.
- The restaurant will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Snacks and beverages will be available to purchase on the historic site.
- Picnic areas are available.
- Season pass holders get free admission to this event.
Good to know:
Only service dogs will be allowed on-site during special events. Thank you for your understanding.
16164 Highway 12 East, Midland, ON, L4R 4K8
Parking Info
There is ample parking for visitors including those with RVs and buses. Please park in the parking lot provided and make your way to the admissions entrance. We also have bike racks available for cyclists coming from the Tay Trail.
Need more info?
Please contact us at hhp@ontario.ca or (705) 526-7838 if you have any questions.
Ontario’s first European Community, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons was the headquarters for the French Jesuit Mission to the Huron-Wendat people. In 1639, the Jesuits, along with French lay workers, began construction of a fenced community that included barracks, a church, workshops, residences, and a sheltered area for Indigenous visitors. This community was abandoned and burned down in 1649.
After extensive archaeological and historical research, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons is now recreated on its original site, where the mission’s compelling story is brought to life with costumed historical interpreters, demonstrations and hands-on activities.
Located near Midland, on the Wye River, this world-renowned reconstruction offers visitors a unique opportunity to see the earliest Canadian pioneer life through self-guided visits, group tours, interactive education programs, and special events. Complete your experience by exploring our interpretive museum and themed gift shop.
