INFORMATION RELEASE

June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day in Canada, coinciding with the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. For generations, many First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities have celebrated their vibrant cultures, languages, and traditions on or around this day. The solstice holds profound spiritual and cultural significance for many Indigenous Peoples, symbolizing a time of renewal, connection, and celebration.

“The Regional District is dedicated to fostering respectful and collaborative relationships with Indigenous communities," said Mark Pendergraft, RDOS chair. June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada. The RDOS encourages everyone to learn more about the history of the syilx Okanagan and sməlqmíx peoples and all First Nations, Inuit, and Métis.

The RDOS is proud to support the Four Seasons Cultural Society, organizers of the Pow Wow Between the Lakes at the South Okanagan Events Centre in SnPink’tn (Penticton). The event, which runs from July 18 to 20, 2025, is intended to bring together the eight bands of the Okanagan Nation Alliance in celebration of Syilx culture and resilience. 

The Okanagan Indian Band is hosting a National Indigenous Peoples Day event, kn sqilxʷ sx̌lx̌ʕalt – kn sqilxw day, scheduled for June 21, 2025, at Komasket Park in Vernon. Admission to the event is free. To learn more, visit the Okanagan Indian Band event page.

To learn more about National Indigenous History Month, visit one of the links below:

• National Indigenous History Month and Peoples Day 2025 – Indigenous Tourism BC
• National Indigenous History Month – Government of Canada

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Mark Pendergraft, Chair
Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen

Contact:

RDOS Communications
250-490-4148
Toll-free 1-877-610-3737

 Click here to the learn more about the Pow Wow Between the Lakes.