In Canada National Aboriginal Day (NAD) is celebrated on June 21, 2025. This day takes place annually to celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding achievements of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples in Canada. These three groups are officially recognizes as Aboriginal people by the Canadian Constitution. National Aboriginal Day was first celebrated in 1996, when it was proclaimed by then Governor General of Canada Roméo LeBlanc.
Before that, the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples as well as a national conference of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people called for a special Canadian holiday to celebrate the contributions of Aboriginal peoples. June 21 was chosen as the date for National Aboriginal Day, as it is or is close to summer solstice, and Aboriginal peoples and communities always have celebrated their culture and heritage on or near this longest day of the year.
More dates: