Explore Indigenous arts, fashion, film, media and culture in Toronto this summer into fall.

Festival season is here, and so are Indigenous-led arts and cultural events, giving visitors and locals the opportunity to witness the brilliance of First Nations, Métis and Inuit artistry.

From festivals to theatre stages, art installations to gallery exhibits (and even a pow wow), these seven can’t-miss events will keep you busy!

 

imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival 

The imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival (June 8–14, 2026, online) is the world’s biggest Indigenous screen content festival. Drawing artists and audiences from around the world, imagineNATIVE is one of Toronto’s most significant annual Indigenous cultural events.

Now heading into its 26th year, the festival showcases video, audio, digital and interactive media by contemporary Indigenous artists who promote narrative sovereignty within the film and media arts industry.

Elders dressed in traditional clothing at the Indigenous Arts Festival at Fort York in Toronto
Arrive early to see 100+ drummers and dancers share their skills for the Grand Entry

Na-Me-Res Traditional Pow Wow at Dufferin Grove Park

The annual Na-Me-Res Pow Wow (June 13, 2026) moves to Westside’s Dufferin Grove Park this year. Taking place ahead of National Indigenous Peoples Day, this free, family-friendly event welcomes everyone to experience Indigenous dance, music, drumming and cultural traditions.

Arrive at the pow wow before noon on Saturday to witness the Grand Entry, where over 100 drummers and dancers will share their skills and then stick around until 5 p.m., to gather with others, connect with vendors and enjoy food options, including traditional fare like tacos or corn soup with bannock. 

 

Indigenous Arts Festival at Biidaasige Park

Spend a summer Saturday with friends and family at the Indigenous Arts Festival (June 20, 2026). This one-day festival is hosted at its new location in Biidaasige Park, on Ookwemin Minising, a newly created island in the beautifully re-naturalized and revitalized Port Lands section of the waterfront. 

The festival features traditional and contemporary music, dance, artisan vendors and Indigenous culinary experiences from First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities. Browse handcrafted artwork and food vendors throughout the day before settling in for evening performances.

Indigenous Fashion Arts: Reverence and Conviction

In partnership with imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival, Indigenous Fashion Arts: Reverence and Conviction (June 4–July 25, 2026) is an exhibition of fashion and design taking place at the YYZ Artist Outlet. Artist-designers include James Monkman, Darlene Naponse, Barry Ace and curator, Sage Paul.

The exhibition highlights contemporary Indigenous fashion, adornment and design practices through the work of leading Indigenous artists and designers.

 

Letendre/Morrisseau at the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)

Two 20th-century masters come together at “Letendre/Morrisseau” (now through July 2026), an exhibition showcasing the bold colours and lines of Rita Letendre (1928–2021) and Norval Morrisseau (1932–2007).

Letendre, an Abenaki-Quebecois painter, produced work characterized by intense physical, emotional and spiritual energy, while Morrisseau, an Anishinaabe painter, founded the influential Woodlands School of Art. Visitors can also see Morrisseau’s six-panel masterpiece, Man Changing Into Thunderbird.

Bill Nasogaluak at the AGO

Contemporary Inuit sculptor and painter Bill Nasogaluak’s work (now through July 2026) explores the effects of colonialism on Northern communities. His work explores the lasting impacts of colonialism, climate change and social challenges affecting Northern communities.

Nasogaluak’s carvings also honour the intricacies of balance integral to Inuvialuit ways of being and the potential of future generations.

 

Mina Nowewinan (Good Sounds)

Celebrate Indigenous music at the International Indigenous Music Summit’s Mina Noweninan concert (November 26, 2026). This pared-down one-day event brings together musicians and performers from across Turtle Island to perform and celebrate Indigenous culture. Featured artists include William Prince, Elisapie, Siibii, Brianna Lizotte, and Bear Creek.

Since time immemorial, Indigenous communities have recognized and honoured the importance of art for connection, community and joy. For arts and culture lovers, these events offer a unique opportunity to celebrate Indigenous artistry—this summer and beyond.

 

—This story has been updated with new details since it was first published in June 2022.

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