Indigenous Creative United & Drumming Workshop

Experience the power of traditional drumming through this welcoming interactive workshop led by Indigenous Creative United (ICU). Festival-goers are invited to connect through rhythm, culture, and shared community experience as part of the opening celebrations of KWMF 2026.

Opening Ceremonies, Prayer with Clarence

The festival will begin with Opening Ceremonies led by Clarence Cachagee from Chapleau Cree First Nation. Through prayer, song, and smudging, Clarence will welcome the community into a weekend of culture, connection, and reflection. An author and founder of Crow Shield Lodge, he is widely recognized for his work in Indigenous healing and community leadership.

Sacred Fire

Join us on Saturday at the Sacred Fire on Victoria Park Island, hosted by Crow Shield Lodge from 12 PM - 8 PM. The Sacred Fire is an important part of many Indigenous ceremonies and gatherings, serving as a space for prayer, reflection, and connection. Opening ceremonies will be led by Clarence Cachagee from Chapleau Cree First Nation through prayer, song, and smudging. The fire will be cared for throughout the weekend by a dedicated firekeeper.

Bead and Bone Lanyards

by Chris Porter

Christine Porter is Mohawk, Wolf Clan from Six Nations. She has been beading since she was 8 years old. Christine is the creative behind Woodland Creations, which makes woodland floral acrylic earrings and accessories, beaded lanyards and ribbon skirts. She is excited to share her art during the multicultural festival with everyone.

Medicine Pouches

by Susan Hill

Susan Hill is a proud member of the Wolf Clan from the Cayuga Nation, hailing from the Six Nations of the Grand River Territory. She was introduced to beading at a young age by her mother and has since developed her craft into a lifelong passion. A self-taught moccasin maker, Susan now shares her knowledge through hands-on workshops that celebrate traditional Indigenous artistry. Her most popular offering is moccasin making, and she also facilitates sessions in loom beading and crafting leather medicine pouches.

Soap Stone Carving

by Benny Skinner & Co.

Led by a Two-Spirit thinker, creator, and educator based on the Haldimand Tract in the Great Lakes area of Turtle Island, this hands-on workshop invites participants to experience the art of soapstone carving while learning traditional carving techniques. Through creativity, storytelling, and cultural connection, participants will explore artistic expression in a welcoming and engaging environment.

Moccasin Identifier

Join Moccasin Identifier™ for an interactive and meaningful experience exploring Indigenous Treaties, traditional territories, land relationships, and shared responsibility in Canada. Founded by an Elder and former Chief of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, this First Nations-led initiative invites participants of all ages to reflect, learn, and connect through storytelling, conversation, and a hands-on moccasin stenciling activity that honours our relationship with the land beneath our feet.

Natalie and the Sarcastic Onions

Natalie and the Sarcastic Onions are a Southern Ontario band blending rock, pop, Latin, blues, and reggae into a distinctly Canadian sound. Led by First Nations artist Natalie Martin, the group is known for energetic live performances and genre-crossing original music. Returning to the KWMF stage, they will perform selections from their albums Satire and Onion World.

Indigenous Performances & Cultural Experiences