The MS Chi-Cheemaun is set to host its first-ever onboard Indigenous Arts and Crafts Market for National Indigenous Peoples Day.
The Owen Sound Transportation Company says in a release, it will be featured during daytime sailings on Saturday, June 21st.
It says: “This special event honours the cultures, traditions and artistic expressions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. National Indigenous Peoples Day takes place each year on the summer solstice and is a time to recognize and celebrate Indigenous communities across Canada.”
Passengers sailing aboard the Chi-Cheemaun on June 21 will have the opportunity to browse and purchase handmade arts and crafts directly from local, Indigenous artisans. Indigenous-made merchandise will also be available in the Chi-Cheemaun’s onboard gift shop throughout the 2025 sailing season.
Organizers say you might find ribbon skirts, moccasins, dreamcatchers, art cards, greeting cards, and collectible stickers, t-shirts featuring original Indigenous artwork
charm earrings and other handmade jewelry.
The Chi-Cheemaun is also offering free Passage for Indigenous Peoples in recognition of the day. It says passage is only free for that individual boarding. Vehicles will be charged.
Chi-Cheemaun, means “big canoe” in Ojibwe, was named in 1974 by Donald Keeshig, a respected member of the Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation. The name is a lasting tribute to the deep cultural connection between the ferry and the Indigenous communities.
See more here: https://www.ontarioferries.com/nationalindigenousday2025/
