One of Bissell Centre’s largest and most joyful celebrations of the year is coming back with even more performers, food, activities, and cheer for the whole community. 

The annual National Indigenous Peoples Day (NIPD) celebration is on Friday, June 19, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in front of Bissell Centre’s buildings at 10527 96th Street. It features art, performances, stew and bannock from Bissell Harvest Catering, and even an appearance from the children at Bissell Child Care. 

“Holding this celebration is incredibly important for many of the people who come to us seeking support,” says Heather Slade, Bissell Centre’s Manager of Indigenous Engagement. “Acknowledging this important day helps so many as they heal from the trauma of colonialism.”

The headline performers at this year’s NIPD celebration are Adrian LaChance and the Running Thunder Dancers, taking place from noon to 2 p.m. Their performances will include traditional drumming, singing, and dancing — including a round dance as a memorial for all the loved ones in the community we have lost over the years. 

Adrian LaChance and the Running Thunder Dancers have been performing traditional Indigenous dancing and drumming since 2010, and facilitating workshops to better support individuals, families, and communities through cultural connection, healing, and personal growth. LaChance himself is renowned for his powwow dancing and drumming. He has been showcasing the culture he carries from the James Smith Cree Nation across the world, including through Europe, Asia, and New Zealand. 

“Seeing the community come alive for this celebration is always so heartwarming,” says Slade. “NIPD reminds me about the hope I have for our vision to see an end to poverty in our community.”

Bissell Centre’s annual NIPD celebration is just one of the many ways its Indigenous Engagement team makes space for ceremony, culture, and healing - guiding both people in the community and Bissell Centre as an organization. 

“With so many people we support coming from Indigenous Nations, ensuring Indigenous culture is integrated into what we do is crucial for their healing,” says Slade. “Bissell Centre is continuously seeking to be an ally with Indigenous communities. Our NIPD celebration is just one way we honour the resiliency of Indigenous communities.” 

Join us on June 19th and visit bissellcentre.org to learn more about our Indigenous Engagement program.

Information submitted by Bissell Centre.