Hundreds of Indigenous singers, drummers, artisans and vendors are expected to gather in Charlottetown this October for a public celebration of Mi’kmaq culture.
Treaty Day takes place on Thursday, October 1, 2026, marking the historic Peace and Friendship Treaties between the Mi’kmaq and the Crown.
Charlottetown’s Treaty Day celebrations are expected to bring together Indigenous community members, Islanders and visitors for a day of music, dancing, cultural activities, art, storytelling and opportunities to learn more about Mi’kmaq history and traditions.
And the celebration is free and open to the public.
Hundreds Of People Are Expected To Come Together
Discover Charlottetown says hundreds of Indigenous singers, drummers, vendors and artisans are expected to come together with locals and visitors during the 2026 Treaty Day celebrations.
The event is designed both as a celebration of Mi’kmaq culture and as an opportunity to learn more about the shared history between the Mi’kmaq and Islanders.
Visitors can expect opportunities to experience traditional Mi’kmaq customs through music, dance, games, stories, art and other cultural activities.
Everyone is welcome to attend.
Treaty Day Recognizes The Peace And Friendship Treaties
Treaty Day is observed annually on October 1 in Prince Edward Island.
The day officially recognizes the historic Peace and Friendship Treaties signed between the Mi’kmaq and the British Crown during the 1700s.
Unlike treaties in some other parts of Canada, the Peace and Friendship Treaties did not involve the Mi’kmaq surrendering or ceding their land.
L’nuey explains that the treaties established an ongoing relationship between nations and continue to recognize Mi’kmaq rights today, including rights related to hunting, fishing, gathering and earning a reasonable living.
Treaty Day is also an opportunity to learn more about that relationship and what it means for people living in Epekwitk, Prince Edward Island, today.
The Celebration Includes Mi’kmaq Music And Dancing
Music and drumming have traditionally been a major part of Charlottetown’s Treaty Day gatherings.
Previous Treaty Day Mawio’mi celebrations have brought together hundreds of Indigenous singers, drummers, artisans and vendors, with Mi’kmaw music, dance and culture at the centre of the gathering.
A Mawio’mi is a gathering that brings people together, and the Charlottetown event has been described by organizers as a time to gather in friendship, respect and unity.
You Can Learn More About Mi’kmaq Culture
Treaty Day isn’t simply a festival.
Education and understanding are important parts of the event.
Discover Charlottetown describes the celebration as an opportunity for visitors to learn about Mi’kmaq culture while acknowledging shared history.
Programming associated with Treaty Day has included traditional songs and drumming, storytelling, cultural demonstrations, art and opportunities to learn about Mi’kmaq customs.
October Is Also Mi’kmaq History Month
Treaty Day also marks the beginning of Mi’kmaq History Month in Prince Edward Island.
Throughout October, events and educational programming help recognize Mi’kmaq history, culture, language and the continuing contributions of the Epekwitnewaq Mi’kmaq.
Epekwitk, Prince Edward Island, is part of Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq People.
Treaty Day Celebrations 2026
📍 Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
📅 Thursday, October 1, 2026
⏰ Celebrations begin at 10 a.m.
🎟️ FREE
🥁 Indigenous singers and drummers
🎨 Artisans and cultural programming
🛍️ Vendors
💃 Mi’kmaq music, dance and traditions
👨👩👧👦 Open to the public
Treaty Day is a chance to celebrate Mi’kmaq culture while also learning more about the Peace and Friendship Treaties and the history that continues to shape Prince Edward Island today.
If you’re in Charlottetown on October 1, this free community celebration is worth adding to your plans.
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