Every Sept. 30, thousands of Canadians reach for their orange shirts in recognition of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, and Calgarians are no exception.
For the past five years, Canada has recognized the last day of September –– often referred to as “Orange Shirt Day” –– as an official statutory holiday honouring Indigenous victims and survivors of the country’s residential school system.
While there are a multitude of diverse events happening across the city and country on Sept. 30, it’s also an important time to remember that true reconciliation doesn’t only happen on a single day on the calendar.
In fact, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation offers an open invitation and foundation to build off for the rest of the year, and there are many local organizations and initiatives offering opportunities for Calgarians to go beyond the day.
Truth and Reconciliation can happen through the choices we make as Calgarians year-round by supporting Indigenous artists, makers, writers, musicians and businesses.
Visiting Indigenous-led cultural events and making space for Indigenous voices in classrooms, workplaces and community conversations are the tip of the iceberg.
Calgarians are encouraged to learn whose traditional territory they live and work on — and remember that a land acknowledgement is most meaningful when it is accompanied by action.
Learning about the history and legacy of residential schools by reading books by First Nations, Métis and Inuit authors, listening to Indigenous storytellers and/or taking time to understand the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action are ways Calgarians can back their words up.
Here is a list of Calgary organizations and initiatives to explore throughout the year.
Calgary organizations and initiatives to explore year-round
- Calgary Public Library — Explore Indigenous Services, Indigenous authors and resources, Elders Story Project programming, art installations and opportunities to learn about Treaty 7 histories and cultures.
- The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland — Learn about the Indigenous histories of the land through exhibitions, programming and the Wandering Spirit residential school memorial.
- Urban Society for Aboriginal Youth (USAY) — Supports Indigenous youth through community programs and educational initiatives, including reconciliation-focused learning opportunities.
- Indigenous Gathering Place Society of Calgary — Watch for Indigenous-led cultural programming, including the annual Gathering at Moh’kinsstis and Indigenous artisan markets.
Indigenous-led markets and events to watch in Calgary
- Authentically Indigenous Craft Show & Marketplace — An Indigenous-curated marketplace featuring Indigenous artists, makers, designers and entrepreneurs featuring authentic Indigenous-made art, clothing, jewellery and crafts. See them on September 30 at Werklund Centre.
- The Gathering at Moh’kinsstis — Held around National Indigenous Peoples Day, this free community celebration brings together Indigenous music, dance, storytelling, demonstrations and an Indigenous Artisan Market.
- Aboriginal Awareness Week Calgary (AAWC) — A community-led week of programming organized by Calgary's urban Indigenous community and organizations. Its programming includes markets, cultural showcases, workshops, pow wow, hand games and Indigenous arts and culture.
- Siksika Nation Fair & Pow wow — Taking place annually in June, this is a major opportunity to experience Blackfoot culture while supporting Indigenous vendors. The 2026 event included a pow wow, hand games, rodeo, sports, food and a marketplace featuring Indigenous crafts, clothing, art and food.
- Treaty 7 Pow wow Trail — Rather than one event, the Pow wow Trail gives Calgarians opportunities to attend pow wows hosted by the Siksika, Kainai, Tsuut’ina, Piikani and Îethka Stoney Nakoda Nations. Pow wows are open to visitors and provide opportunities to experience dance, drumming, food and Indigenous vendors respectfully.
- Tsuut’ina Community Markets — The Tsuut’ina Community Association has hosted Indigenous community markets bringing together Native artisans, crafters, cooks, bakers and entrepreneurs. These smaller community markets are worth watching for future dates.
4 ways to mark National Day for Truth and Reconciliation this year
September 30, 2026 | 6 p.m. at Werklund Centre, 205 8 Ave S.E.
This year, the Elders of the Elders Story Project (ESP) are moving from Truth towards Reconciliation, featuring ceremonies that this group has never before shared with an audience. With a free Indigenous Makers Market and Pow wow Showcase to compliment the evening, join Werklund Centre on September 30 for a celebration of tradition, remembrance, and joy.
Sept. 30, 2026 | 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Contemporary Calgary, 701 11 St. S.W.
The 10th annual Pokaiks gathering includes a commemorative walk, speakers, cultural performances, food trucks, an artisan market and other culturally grounded activities.
Sept. 30, 2026 | 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Confluence Historic Site & Parkland, 750 9 Ave. S.E.
The Confluence is hosting a free full-day program focused on reconciliation and decolonization, with educational programming throughout the day. The programming includes speakers, Indigenous Elders and dancers.
Sept. 30 2026 | 5to 7:30 p.m.at Patricia A. Whelan Performance Hall, Central Library, 800 3 St. S.E.
The Calgary Public Library is hosting renowned Métis author, Elder and storyteller Maria Campbell for a free National Day for Truth and Reconciliation event exploring Métis history, resilience, truth and reconciliation. The evening also includes food and cultural performances.
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