National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Tuesday, September 30th marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This annual federal holiday was proclaimed by the Government of Canada to honour the children who never returned home from residential schools, the survivors, and their families and communities. It is one of many opportunities to reflect on our journey and understanding of Truth and Reconciliation.
The day coincides with Orange Shirt Day, an Indigenous-led grassroots initiative intended to raise awareness of the individual, family and community inter-generational impacts of residential schools, and to promote the concept of “Every Child Matters.”
There are several events across Calgary to commemorate the day — our roundup features everything from the annual Orange Shirt Day Walk to film screenings to panel discussions.
Spirit of Reconciliation
Until September 30, 2025 (see website for schedule)
Centre Court, Southcentre Mall (100 Anderson Rd. SE)
Free to attend
Southcentre Mall presents Spirit of Reconciliation in honour of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The activation features a traditional tipi, Indigenous-led storytelling, music and cultural performances throughout September, with a special commemoration on September 30.
southcentremall.com
Film Screening of Siksikakowan: The Blackfoot man
September 29, 2025, 6 – 8:30pm
Central Library (800 3 St. SE)
Free to attend, registration required
Check out a free screening of Siksikakowan: The Blackfoot Man, an intimate documentary by Trevor Solway exploring stories of Indigenous masculinity in Siksika Nation. The film unpacks rigid ideals of manhood while celebrating strength, vulnerability and kinship.
go.ucalgary.ca
Orange Shirt Day at The Confluence
September 30, 2025, 10am – 5pm
The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland (750 9 Ave. SE)
Free to attend
This day is intended to honour the children who never returned home and the survivors of residential schools, as well as to recognize the inter-generational impacts of residential schools. Take part through Indigenous storytelling, tours and other programming.
theconfluence.ca
Pokaiks ‘The Children’ Commemorative Walk & Gathering
September 30, 2025, 11am – 5:30pm
From the Peace Bridge (Eau Claire side) to Contemporary Calgary
Free to attend
This walk and gathering honours Indigenous children’s past, present and future on the National Day of Truth & Reconciliation. The event features a reconciliation walk, traditional performances, workshops, artisans, and family-friendly activities led by Elders and community leaders.
pokaiks.org
Indigenous Makers Market & Pow Wow Showcase
September 30, 2025, 11am – 1pm
Jack Singer Concert Hall Lobby, Werklund Centre (215 8 Ave. SE)
Free to attend
Join Werklund Centre for an Indigenous Makers Market curated by Authentically Indigenous, featuring the creations of Indigenous artists and artisans from around Treaty 7 and beyond, as well as performances by Indigenous dancers and drummers during a mini Pow Wow showcase.
werklundcentre.ca
Indigenous Placemaking
September 30, 2025, 12 – 5pm
Various Calgary Public Library locations
Free to attend, registration required
Explore Indigenous Placemaking installations by artists connected to Treaty 7 at the following Library locations: Central, Crowfoot, Fish Creek, Forest Lawn, Judith Umbach, Saddletowne, Seton, Shawnessy, Signal Hill and Village Square libraries.
calgarylibrary.ca
Angela Sterritt Presentation
September 30, 2025, 12:30 – 1:45pm
Eckhardt-Gramatté Hall, Rosza Centre, University of Calgary (206 University Ct. NW)
Free to attend, registration required
UCalgary and Calgary Public Library host a keynote with award-winning journalist and bestselling author Angela Sterritt, who will share insights from her groundbreaking work on Indigenous stories and resilience. The event also includes remarks from campus and community leaders.
go.ucalgary.ca
We Are All Treaty People
September 30, 2025, 12:30pm, 2:30pm and 6:30pm
The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland (750 9 Ave. SE)
Free to attend, tickets required
The Confluence and Quest Theatre present We Are All Treaty People, a play that shares the story of Treaty 7 through song, movement, puppetry and storytelling. Following a Trickster and two young girls, the performance explores friendship, history and reconciliation.
theconfluence.ca
Werklund Centre Gallery Talks & Tours
September 30, 2025, 12 noon, 1pm and 2pm
+15 Galleries, Werklund Centre (205 8 Ave. SE)
Free to attend, registration required
Explore the +15 Galleries at Werklund Centre on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with free tours and artist talks featuring young Indigenous artists. Tours run hourly.
werklundcentre.ca
Speak Up! Panel and Exhibition + Free Admission to Studio Bell
September 30, 2025, Panel: 1pm | Free admission: 10am – 5pm
Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre
Free to attend
Join the National Music Centre for a panel on the power of music in reconciliation with Rex Smallboy, Curt Young, Wendy Walker and host Drezus. Visitors can also explore the updated Speak Up! exhibition, showcasing trailblazing Indigenous voices.
studiobell.ca
The Road to Truth
September 30, 2025, 6:30 – 9pm
Grace Presbyterian Church (1009 15 Ave. SW)
Free to attend
Join Stardale Women’s Group for an evening of storytelling, reflection and community connection, including a screening of their award-winning film The Road to Truth, followed by an opportunity to listen, learn and engage in meaningful dialogue.
circleconnectionsforreconciliation.com
New Blood
September 30, 2025, 7pm
Bert Church Theatre (1000 East Lake Blvd. NE, Airdrie)
$10, free for Indigenous guests with registration
This powerful play honours Siksika (Blackfoot) history, inspired by the life of Chief Vincent Yellow Old Woman, a residential school survivor who went on to lead his Nation. Don’t miss this production and Indigenous vendors before the show.
circleconnectionsforreconciliation.com
Elders Story Project
September 30, 2025, 7:30pm
Jack Singer Concert Hall, Werklund Centre (215 8 Ave. SE)
Free to attend, registration required
For 2025, the Elders Story Project expands into a participatory ceremony featuring a tea dance, pipe ceremony, Blackfoot naming and a community round dance. The Elders Knowledge Circle Society invites audiences into a memorable cultural experience.
werklundcentre.ca
Have an event that’s not listed? Email us at events@calgaryartsdevelopment.com or fill out this form.
