In the lead-up to the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, the City of Lethbridge and community partners are hosting a week-long series of events aimed at education, reflection, and celebration of Indigenous cultures.
The City has partnered with the University of Lethbridge, Galt Museum & Archives, Lethbridge Public Library, and numerous local organizations to offer programming that spans music, art, culture, sport, and storytelling.
The week officially began Monday, September 22, with an opening ceremony outside City Hall, where Elders, Indigenous leaders, and local dignitaries gathered for a traditional blessing and remarks. The event set the tone for a week grounded in truth-telling, learning, and community connection.
Highlights for Reconciliation Week 2025
Sept. 22–30 – Indigenous Colouring & Activity Book Project
Community members are invited to contribute artwork and stories to a special publication aimed at educating younger generations about Indigenous cultures. Submissions are open until October 31.
Thursday, Sept. 25 – Blackfoot Kinship Talk at Galt Museum
From 2–3 p.m., local Elders and Knowledge Keepers will share insights into Blackfoot genealogy and kinship systems. This event is part of an ongoing initiative to highlight Indigenous archival materials.
Thursday, Sept. 25 – Downtown Night Market
Festival Square will come alive from 5–8 p.m. with a night market featuring Indigenous vendors, artisans, and food—bringing a vibrant close to Thursday’s programming.
Saturday. Sept. 27 – Indigenous Music Festival**
The city will host its **first-ever Indigenous Music Festival** at Festival Square from 2–7 p.m. The free, outdoor event will showcase local and regional Indigenous performers, with artisan booths, food trucks, and community activities.
Sunday, Sept. 28 – Truth and Reconciliation Walk
A public walk from Lethbridge Public Library to Galt Gardens (11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.) offers a chance for reflection and solidarity. Participants are encouraged to wear orange in support of residential school survivors.
Sept. 28 – Indigenous Fashion Show
From 4–9 p.m. at the Galt Museum, Indigenous designers will take the stage in a fashion showcase that blends traditional designs with contemporary styles.
Sept. 28 – Arts Days / Orange Shirt Day Events
Analog Books will host an Indigenous author reading at 11:30 a.m., followed by clay pin-making and traditional games at CASA from 1–3 p.m., ideal for families and children.
Tuesday, Sept. 30 – National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (Orange Shirt Day)
The week culminates on Tuesday with “Give it a Try” — a family-friendly activity day at Legacy Park, running 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Kids and families can try lacrosse, roller hockey, skateboarding, and other sports with guidance from local instructors.The City will observe the statutory holiday, with adjusted service schedules.
City officials say this year’s Reconciliation Week is about more than symbolic gestures — it’s an opportunity to listen, learn, and act. Lethbridge residents are encouraged to attend events throughout the week, wear orange on September 30, and take time to reflect on the ongoing impacts of the residential school system and the path toward reconciliation.
For a full list of events and updates, visit https://www.lethbridge.ca
Picture courtesy of lethbridge.ca.
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