Loyalist College is hosting the 30th annual Indigenous Arts Festival this Saturday.
The festival showcases Indigenous entrepreneurship through art, craft, music and food and will include a marketplace featuring 30 vendors.
“For thirty years, the Indigenous Arts Festival has created space for Indigenous artists and entrepreneurs to share their work and cultural practices, while inviting the broader community to learn, support and enjoy,” says Tewathahá:kwa Jennifer Maracle, Executive Director, Indigenous Initiatives and Reconciliation at Loyalist College. “We are proud to carry this cherished tradition forward and continue celebrating the richness of Indigenous cultures.”
A highlight of this year’s milestone celebration is the return of live entertainment to the festival lineup.
Performers include the renowned drum group Red Spirit Singers, which features members of the Ojibway, Oneida, and Dakota nations.
The festival will also include singing by Yakothehtón:ni Jennifer E. Brant, a longtime participant from Kenhté:ke, Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory.
Students from the Quinte Mohawk School will also sing.
“Loyalist College believes wholeheartedly in its responsibility to facilitate cultural education, connection and understanding within our community,” says Mark Kirkpatrick, President and CEO of Loyalist College. “I want to thank the Tsi Titewaya’taró:roks team and everyone who has contributed over the years to making the Indigenous Arts Festival a lasting and meaningful part of campus life.”
The 30th annual Indigenous Arts Festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Shark Tank Pub at Loyalist College’s Belleville campus.
