Indigenous Peoples' Day

Indigenous Peoples' Day in Boston is celebrated with various events, including parades, festivals, and educational activities, to honor the culture, history, and contributions of Native American communities. The holiday, which replaces Columbus Day in many parts of the country, aims to shift focus from colonial history to the resilience and rich traditions of Indigenous peoples.

Events and Parades:

Indigenous Peoples' Day Parade

Boston has hosted Indigenous Peoples' Day parades that feature drumming, singing, and dances performed by Native American groups. The parade often begins in central locations such as the Boston Common and proceeds through significant cultural and historical areas.

WBUR

Indigenous Peoples' Day Celebration at Boston Common

This event often includes a variety of educational programming, performances, and traditional ceremonies. Local Indigenous leaders and representatives speak about the importance of the day and share their stories and perspectives on Native history.

Festivals and Educational Programs

The city offers additional cultural events, including storytelling, workshops on Indigenous history, and demonstrations of traditional arts and crafts. Some museums, such as the Museum of Fine Arts (which has free admission for Indigenous Peoples’ Day) and the Peabody Museum, may also hold special exhibitions or programs in recognition of the day.

Museum of Fine Arts Boston

Speeches and Discussions

Local Indigenous leaders, scholars, and activists frequently organize panels and discussions to address the ongoing struggles and achievements of Native communities in the U.S., focusing on issues such as sovereignty, environmental justice, and cultural preservation.

Museum of Fine Arts Boston

Plimoth Plantation

To get a glimpse of Wampanoag life and history, you can visit nearby Plimoth Plantation where members of today's Wampanoag Nation share stories about their culture in a re-creation of their 17th century homes.

Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe