5 Calgary Family Events for Truth and Reconciliation Day — September 30, 2026

Calgary family guide · Wednesday, September 30, 2026

Looking for a meaningful way to spend today with your children? Five events in our Calgary Activities listings offer opportunities to listen, learn and connect on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day. Four have free admission.

This day honours residential school Survivors, remembers the children who never returned home, and recognizes the continuing impact on Indigenous families and communities. Wear orange if you can, make space for your child’s questions, and follow the guidance of the people hosting each gathering.

Explore events on the map →

Today’s five events at a glance

• The Confluence: City ceremony 9–10:30am; free site programs 10am–5pm.
• Pokaiks: The Children: Walk 11am; gathering 12–5:30pm. Free.
• Studio Bell: 10am–5pm. Free admission for everyone.
• Werklund Centre: Market 11am; Pow Wow Showcase 5pm; Elders Story Project 7pm. Free; reserve an evening ticket.
• Heritage Park: Music 4–6pm; powwow 6–9pm. Paid admission, with free entry for Indigenous visitors and members.

1. Listen and learn at The Confluence

Event image: The Confluence

Begin with the City of Calgary’s Orange Shirt Day ceremony, or visit later for free admission to the cultural centre, tipi programming, Indigenous artisan stalls, storytelling and children’s colouring. Circle Camp offers opportunities to hear from Elders and Knowledge Keepers and learn about Indigenous ways of life.

When: Ceremony 9–10:30am; site programs 10am–5pm.
Where: 750 9 Ave SE.
Admission: Free; food and market purchases extra.

Free reconciliation walking tours run at 11am and 1pm; an RSVP is recommended. Some storytelling sessions have limited capacity and are first come, first served.

View on map →Official program & tour RSVP ↗

2. Walk together at Pokaiks: The Children

Event image: Pokaiks Reconciliation Society / Contemporary Calgary

The Indigenous-led Pokaiks Reconciliation Walk leaves River Hall and travels to Contemporary Calgary. From noon, the gathering includes Indigenous games, family activities, performances, workshops, Tipi Talks, films and a drum circle. A quiet area and an Elder’s Niche also offer space for reflection.

When: Walk departs at 11am; family programming 12–5:30pm.
Where: Start at River Hall, 311 8 St SW; gathering at Contemporary Calgary, 701 11 St SW.
Admission: Free; food and market purchases extra.

Check the schedule before joining the walk or heading straight to the gallery. Only service animals are permitted inside Contemporary Calgary.

View gathering on map →Official event details ↗

3. Explore Indigenous music stories at Studio Bell

Event image: National Music Centre / Studio Bell

Studio Bell opens its doors free of charge for everyone today. Explore five floors of music exhibitions and interactive activities, including Speak Up!, which highlights Indigenous artists who have shaped music in Canada.

When: 10am–5pm.
Where: 850 4 St SE.
Admission: Free for everyone on September 30.

View on map →Official visitor information ↗

4. Join the circle at Werklund Centre

Event image: Werklund Centre

Visit the Indigenous Makers Market, watch the Pow Wow Showcase, or attend the Elders Story Project’s evening program. The evening includes ceremonies led by Elders and concludes with a Round Dance that everyone is welcome to join.

When: Market opens at 11am; Pow Wow Showcase at 5pm; Elders Story Project at 7pm.
Where: Werklund Centre / Jack Singer Concert Hall, 205 8 Ave SE.
Admission: Free; market purchases extra.

Reserve a free ticket for the evening program. Visitors without tickets may enter only if capacity allows. The evening runs approximately two hours, with an intermission, so consider what fits your family’s bedtime.

View on map →Official program & free tickets ↗

5. Gather for Dancing in Their Honour at Heritage Park

Event image: Heritage Park

Heritage Park’s evening gathering brings Indigenous music, dancing, drumming, food and artisans together in a spirit of remembrance and reconciliation. Music is Medicine runs in Heritage Plaza before the Dancing in Their Honour powwow, with Grand Entry at 6pm.

When: Music 4–6pm; powwow 6–9pm.
Where: 1900 Heritage Dr SW.
Admission: Ages 16+ $14.95; ages 3–15 $8.95. Indigenous visitors and members enter free. Food and market purchases extra.

View on map →Official program & admission ↗

Before you head out

Choose the gathering that gives your family time to listen and take part. Check organizer updates, tickets and capacity before leaving, and follow hosts’ guidance about participation and photography. Food and market purchases may cost extra even where admission is free.

These five listings are for Wednesday, September 30, 2026. Times and admission details were checked against organizer pages on that date.

Learn more about National Day for Truth and Reconciliation ↗

Find your next Calgary family event →