Indigenous Peoples Day 2024

In celebration of National Indigenous Peoples Day, we’re excited to shine a spotlight on the amazing Indigenous artists and artisans who will be joining us at the upcoming 2024 Festival. We’re truly honoured to have the guidance and support of Grandmother Chickadee Richard (Benais Quimiwin Ikwe) Thunder Rain Woman, and the Indigenous Advisory Circle. Their wisdom helps steer our ongoing Indigenous education efforts.

We’re committed to supporting and showcasing Indigenous talent all year round but especially during the Festival. It’s a privilege to host our Festival at Birds Hill Provincial Park, situated on Treaty 1 territory and the homeland of the Red River Métis.

We look forward to celebrating together in this beautiful space.

Grandmother Chickadee Richard (Benais Quimiwin Ikwe)  Thunder Rain Woman

Grandmother Chickadee Richard is a member of the Sandy Bay First Nation and was raised near the west side of Lake Manitoba.

Grandmother Chickadee is a mother of three biological children, two adopted sons, and grandmother of seven children. She is also a grandmother to many in the Indigenous communities across Turtle Island.

She is a proud Anishinaabe kwe who has dedicated her life to the betterment of the land, water, and Indigenous communities. For many years, she has been an advocate and educator for change and justice in Manitoba and across Canada, creating awareness of the strength and beauty of Indigenous culture and perspectives.

Grandmother Chickadee has collaborated with many exceptional grassroots leaders of Indigenous communities to help create safer places for Indigenous Peoples.

Grandmother Chickadee works with people who are open and willing to change the current ways that harm the land, lakes, and Indigenous Peoples’ ways of life.

Opening Blessing

Join us for the Opening Blessing on Main Stage before the music begins on July 11 at 5:45 PM, led by Grandmother Chickadee Richard.

 

Indigenous Welcoming Ceremony

The Indigenous Welcoming Ceremony acknowledges and welcomes Indigenous artists to the Festival led by Grandmother Chickadee Richard. It will take place at Shady Grove on July 13 at 10:30 AM. We’d love to see you there. Everyone is welcome!

Also on Saturday, a teepee will be raised near Shady Grove by the youth from Spirit Horse. Feel free to come and visit, but note that the teepee area is an alcohol-free zone.

 

PERFORMERS

 


ARTIST NEWS

 

WORKSHOP

THREE CHORDS AND THE TRUTH

SUNDAY, JULY 14 AT 11:30 AM ON SHADY GROVE STAGE

Featuring Caley Watts, Elisapie, Shane Ghostkeeper, and Wyatt C. Louis

Inspired by the Harlan Howard expression, Three Chords and The Truth explores how a few chords and heartfelt lyrics can carry profound messages. This workshop features five incredible Indigenous artists who bring their unique cultural backgrounds and storytelling traditions to their music, making it a must-hear event.

 

HAND-MADE VILLAGE ARTISANS

The Hand-Made Village celebrates the long-standing history that arts and crafts share with folk music festivals. Make sure you make your way there for some beautifully hand-crafted pieces from the Indigenous artists listed below.

PRAIRIE OUTDOOR EXHIBITION

Art at Folk Fest comes in all shapes and forms. The Prairie Outdoor Exhibition is a unique and interactive outdoor art gallery on the Winnipeg Folk Fest site.

*Non-Indigenous partner.