
Ottawa’s Summer Solstice Festival: A Spectacular Celebration of Indigenous Culture, Music, and Tradition
Ottawa hosts plenty of summer festivals, but the Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival (SSIF) offers something truly unique. It’s a deep dive into Indigenous cultures, traditions, and artistry, inviting attendees to connect with history and community in a way that feels both celebratory and meaningful.
This annual celebration of National Indigenous History Month is an opportunity to experience the rich traditions, artistry, and deep cultural knowledge of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. This year, SSIF brings its biggest lineup yet, culminating in a city-wide celebration that peaks with a two-day gathering at Wesley Clover Parks on June 21–22.
ABOVE: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) World Champion Hoop Dancer Scott Sinquah; Pow Wow Head Veteran Clarence Trapper; Ojibwe dancer Amanda Fox.
From the powerful drumbeats of the International Competition Pow Wow to the spectacular drone show, which weaves ancestral teachings into the night sky, every moment of the festival is designed to honour Indigenous voices and foster connection. Whether you come for the music, dance, food, storytelling, or hands-on workshops, SSIF is more than an event—it’s a chance to step into a culture that has thrived for generations and continues to shape Canada’s identity today. And the best part? It’s completely free.
An Unforgettable Indigenous Day Weekend
A highlight of the festival that truly captures the energy and spirit of Indigenous traditions is the SSIF International Competition Pow Wow. With Grammy-nominated Bear Creek setting the rhythm, the beat of the drum, the intricate regalia, and the incredible talent of dancers from across Turtle Island come together to create a powerful and unforgettable experience.
The Celebration Stage, presented by OLG, will feature a lineup that’s as eclectic as it is exciting: World champion hoop dancer Scott Sinquah, Métis magician Chanelle Munroe, and even an award-winning Elvis tribute by Justin Francois—because why not mix things up?
And when the sun sets, the party doesn’t stop. The Glow-in-the-Dark Pow Wow turns tradition into something electrifying, with Ojibwe/Blackfoot DJ Classic Roots bringing pulsating beats to a dance floor lit by neon.
Culture Meets Cutting-Edge Tech
One of the festival’s most unique features is the Drone Show, presented by Donna Cona and Indigenous Tourism Ontario. This awe-inspiring display sees 250 synchronized drones light up the night sky, forming stunning imagery that tells the story of the Seven Grandfather Teachings—blending ancient wisdom with modern technology.
Feast, Shop, and Play
Beyond the performances, SSIFt the festival has the Indigenous Marketplace, sponsored by Export Development Canada, which showcases over 70 Indigenous vendors, offering handmade beadwork, jewelry, art, clothing, and home décor.
ABOVE: Chef Billy Alexander will be offering diners a buffet experience, while Chef Trudy Metcalfe-Coe (right) will prepare fresh Arctic Char Ceviche. Seating for both will offer prime views of activities in the Grand Prix Field. (Photos: https://summersolsticefestivals.ca/)
Food lovers can try inspired cuisine from Chef Billy Alexander, or visit the interactive Arctic Char Ceviche station by Inuk Chef Trudy Metcalfe-Coe, who brings stories of cooking in Qikiqtarjuaq, Nunavut, straight to the table.
For families, the lineup features lots of fun: SuperDogs, Indian Relay Racing, Ojibwe Spirit Horse encounters, and interactive experiences ranging from axe throwing to Jed the Mechanical Bull. And yes, the crowd-favourite bouncy castle is back.
More Ways to Celebrate
Even beyond the main festival weekend, Ottawa will host Indigenous-themed events throughout June. Expect lunchtime pow wow fitness, art workshops, an Indigenous art market at the National Arts Centre, and student programming at the Canadian Museum of History.
Admission is free, and with 3,000 parking spots ($10/day) available at Wesley Clover Parks. No car, no worries, Wesley Clover Parks is accessible by public transit, making celebrating Indigenous culture as accessible as it is exciting!
Come for the drumming, dancing, storytelling, and food, stay for the energy, connection, and unforgettable moments.
For details and event registrations, visit summersolsticefestivals.ca and follow #SSIF2025 on social media.