To honour the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the community is invited to gather in Ethel Tucker Park on September 30 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hosted by the Town of Okotoks, the event will include a Pipe Ceremony, a community barbecue and performances for Indigenous artists and is an opportunity to learn, reflect and honour the Victims, Survivors and all those who have been, and continue to be, affected by the Residential School System.
“The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a time for all of us to reflect, learn and honour the Victims and Survivors of the Residential School System,” said CAO Elaine Vincent. “We are honoured to host this event alongside Residential School Survivors, Indigenous Elders and artists, and we remain committed to building stronger relationships with Indigenous peoples through respectful dialogue and meaningful action.”
The event will begin with a traditional Blackfoot Pipe Ceremony, led by Indigenous Elders in the Town’s Tipi, followed by community discussion with two Residential School Survivors as they share their stories. Traditional foods, berry soup and bannock, will be served.
Following the ceremony, residents are encouraged to stay and participate in a Community Round Dance and Honour Song led by traditional singers as well as a community barbecue (while supplies last) and performances by Indigenous singer/songwriters.
Observing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is one of many steps the Town of Okotoks is taking on its ongoing journey toward reconciliation. The Town is committed to acknowledging our role in this process, strengthening relationships with Indigenous communities, and fostering an inclusive community that honours Indigenous history, traditions, and culture. This event is brought in in partnership with our proud sponsors, Scotiabank, FLUOR and the Rotary Club of Okotoks.
Event Details:
- What: Pipe Ceremony, community barbecue and performances from Indigenous artists to honour the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
- Date: September 30, 2025
- Time: Pipe Ceremony – 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- Community Barbecue – 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. (or while supplies last)
- Performances from Indigenous artists – 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
- Location: Ethel Tucker Park, 23 Riverside Drive
In the case of inclement weather, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation event will be held at the Viking Rentals Centre Events Hall - #4-204 Community Way, Okotoks.
Learn more about our shared journey to understanding Truth and advancing Reconciliation.