National Indigenous Peoples Day

Location: Commemoration Park, beside the Jasper Activity Centre (1324 Pyramid Lake Road) – Jasper, AB

Date: June 21, 2026

Time: 11 am to 4 pm

Parks Canada and the Municipality of Jasper respectfully acknowledge that Jasper National Park and Jasper townsite are located in Treaty 6 and 8 as well as the traditional lands of the Anishinabe, Aseniwuche Winewak, Dene-zaa, Nêhiyawak, Secwépemc, Stoney Nakoda, Mountain Métis and Métis. We acknowledge the past, present and future generations of these nations who continue to steward the land.

Jasper National Park and the Municipality of Jasper are proud to welcome Elders, community members and visitors to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day. This day is an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the rich cultures, traditions and contributions of Indigenous peoples.

Everyone is invited to experience a full day of celebration and learning as we mark the 30th anniversary of this important day.

In collaboration with local Indigenous partners, Parks Canada, the Municipality of Jasper and Tourism Jasper will present a community gathering featuring cultural teachings, traditional foods, storytelling, artisan markets and more.

Join us throughout the day for:

• Cultural Knowledge workshops (all ages)
• Indigenous artisan market and cultural foods

Bring a chair or picnic blanket, your friends and family. Learn something new and be part of this special day celebrating Indigenous cultures and communities.

Spectator etiquette

Grand Entry

• Stand for honors: Always stand and remove your hats during the Grand Entry, Flag Songs, and Invocation.

Intertribal dancing etiquette

• Everyone is welcome: This is a public invitation to enter the arena. You do not need to be Indigenous or wear regalia to participate.
• Follow the flow: Walk or dance in a counterclockwise direction around the arena. Follow the lead of the dancers ahead of you.
• Keep your feet moving: You can walk to the beat of the drum. You do not need to dance.
• No casual touching: Never touch a dancer’s regalia. It is sacred clothing, not a costume.
• Listen to the MC: The Master of Ceremonies (MC) will clearly state when the Intertribal dance starts and ends. Follow their cues.

Hoop dance segment etiquette

• Ask before filming: Hoop dances are often storytelling exhibitions. Listen closely to the MC to hear if photography or video recording is allowed.
• Remain seated: Keep the sightlines clear. This dance involves intricate floor work, and spectators need to see the hoop formations on the ground.
• Hold your applause: Wait until the dancer finishes their entire song or storytelling sequence before clapping.
• Do not touch the hoops: If a hoop rolls out of the circle near you, do not grab it. Let the dancer or an arena director retrieve it.
• Keep children close: Ensure children do not run into the arena. The dancer needs full use of the space to manipulate multiple hoops safely.