Recognizing Indigenous History Month
The Markham Village Music Festival proudly continues its commitment to honouring Indigenous cultures and building connections across communities by showcasing Indigenous artists, music, and culture—supporting reconciliation.
FRiday June 19, 2026
Indigenous Music & Dance
Opening Ceremony & Round Dance
Join Grandmother Kim Wheatley for the opening ceremony and an instruction of a welcoming Round Dance
6:00PM - 6:45PM
South Community Stage
Experience the richness of Indigenous music and dance throughout the festival weekend. Featured knowledge keeper Kim Wheatley and artists Nimkii, J-Rez, Aqua’s Red Rhythm and Blue, and the Chippewa Travellers. From traditional drumming and dance to contemporary hip-hop and cultural storytelling, these performances highlight the diversity and vitality of Indigenous expression.
Indigenous Flavours & Finds
Indigenous Vendors
Explore handcrafted goods and contemporary Indigenous design on Saturday. Browse offerings from the Big Canoe Indigenous Market including Teyo Hill's soapstone sculptures and discover ceremonial dress creations and streetwear textiles by artist EJ Kwandibens.
11:00AM - 10:00PM
Village Market near the Middle Stage
Saturday June 20, 2026
Kidz Zone
Create Your Own Beaded Hoop Earrings
FREE Drop-in Workshop
Join Indigenous artist Siera Hancharyk in the Kidz Zone and learn to create beautiful wire-wrapped hoop earrings. This beginner-friendly workshop includes all materials and is suitable for ages 8 and up.
Saturday, June 20 | 1–4 PM
One pair per participant. Available while supplies last.
Indigenous Music & Dance
Experience the richness of Indigenous music and dance throughout the festival weekend. Featured knowledge keeper Kim Wheatley and artists Nimkii, J-Rez, Aqua’s Red Rhythm and Blue, and the Chippewa Travellers. From traditional drumming and dance to contemporary hip-hop and cultural storytelling, these performances highlight the diversity and vitality of Indigenous expression.
Indigenous Flavours & Finds
Indigenous Vendors
Explore handcrafted goods and contemporary Indigenous design on Saturday. Browse offerings from the Big Canoe Indigenous Market including Teyo Hill's soapstone sculptures and discover ceremonial dress creations and streetwear textiles by artist EJ Kwandibens.
11:00AM - 10:00PM
Village Market near the Middle Stage
Indigenous Legacy Art Project
Discover Wiijishimotaw Mashkiki (Dance with Medicine), a banner series by local First Nations artist Naomi Peters celebrating Indigenous dance and drumming traditions.
The installation is featured at the South Stage, the Bike Zone, and along light poles south of Main Street, honouring a culturally significant site where Indigenous Peoples have lived and thrived since time immemorial
Funded By
Indigenous vendors sponsored by
Artisans presented in association with
