THUNDER BAY – Events Now – All are invited to celebrate National Aboriginal Day on Thursday, June 21, 2012 at Prince Arthur’s Landing (Marina Park). The event is a fun-filled day for the whole family to enjoy and bring together our city, region and territory by celebrating the rich contributions that Aboriginal peoples (First Nation, Non-Status, Métis and Inuit) have made to Canada. Admission is free and all are welcome to attend.
Thunder Bay’s National Aboriginal Day (NAD) event will feature spectacular contemporary and traditional Aboriginal dance, song and theatrical performances as well as a feast. The theme of this year’s event is “Sustainability” and patrons are encouraged to bring their own reusable water bottles, plates, cups and utensils to limit the amount of paper products being disposed of.
Schedule of Activities:
5:00 a.m. Sunrise Ceremony
10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Crafts, Storytelling and Games
11:00 a.m. Welcome Address
12:00 noon Grand Entry
4:30 p.m. Feast and Youth Entertainment
6:00 p.m. Pow wow continues
8:00 p.m. Giveaways and Closing Ceremonies
“We invite everyone to join us for the National Aboriginal Day celebrations,” says Ann Magiskan, NAD Committee Chair. “Our Committee has worked hard to bring Thunder Bay another wonderful event to celebrate and honour the contributions of Aboriginal peoples.”
National Aboriginal Day is held on June 21 because it is the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. For generations, Aboriginal people have celebrated their culture and heritage on or near this day.
The NAD Committee wishes to thank the following for their support: Union Gas, City of Thunder Bay, Negahneewin College and Confederation College, Lakehead University, Bank of Montreal (BMO), Dougall Media, Manitoulin Transport, Thunder Bay Métis Council, Métis Nation of Ontario, Tbaytel, Dr. Brad Wakegijig and Nimkiikwe Bookkeeping, Wasaya Airways, Canada Safeway, Nishnawbe Aski Nation, Wal-mart, Diversity Thunder Bay, Lakehead Public Schools, Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board, Ontario Native Women’s Association and Hydro One.
For more information visit www.nationalaboriginaldaythunderbay.ca. All are encouraged to ‘Like’ the event on Facebook or ‘follow’ it on Twitter.