Ottawa celebrates Indigenous culture at summer solstice festival

Families got to participate in Indigenous traditions and culture this weekend at the Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival in Ottawa. CTV’s Camille Wilson reports

The Ottawa Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival wrapped up at Wesley Clover Parks this weekend after two days of dancing, drumming and celebrations.

 The festival is held annually in celebration of National Indigenous Peoples Day on Saturday.

“It’s really just a day for us to celebrate our culture and community. This event is all about welcoming in the families and the public to share in that celebration with us,” said Trina Simard, CEO of Indigenous experiences and producer of the Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival.

Hundreds of indigenous dancers of all styles competed in a dance powwow, along with drummers.

Participants were able to take part in a grand entry ceremony, along with an Indigenous flag ceremony and Indigenous veterans dance.

Rose Nottaway, an Indigenous woman from Algonquin Lake, attended the celebration with her granddaughter who also took part in the powwow. She says it’s important for her to bring her.

“Be proud of who she is and where she’s from and teaching her culture. I want to show her where she’s from,” said Nottaway.

Nottaway says they’ve been attending powwows all summer and will continue to bring her to them.

“It’s important. This is a time of gathering for all the First Nations. It’s beautiful to gather and pray and be together,” said Nottaway.

The festival allowed everyone to participate in Canada’s diverse Indigenous cultures and traditions while enjoying savoury foods and creative workshops.

“I find it is interesting to get to know other cultures and not just your own. It broadens your perspective,” said Denise Reid, who attends festival every year.

Reid says she loves to indulge in the food and watch the performances.

“I love the dancers especially the young ones, seeing how they really put themselves into it. Some of them are so tiny. It’s obvious their parents are involving them in their culture,” said Reid.

Dolores Hall came from Montreal for the festival.

“It’s been fantastic. We saw a sacred ceremony, which I’m sure many people have not. Due to a falling feather, which was very enlightening and knowledgeable. It just seemed richer because we were able to participate in that ceremony,” Hall said.

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