Pictured above: Pikangikum’s police team distributing goodies to the children at the beach gazebo

Pikangikum, ON held a fun-filled evening celebrating their culture and identity on National Indigenous Peoples Day, June 21.

Organized by Pikangikum First Nation and the Pikangikum Documentary Team, Pikangikum’s Film Festival was a huge success. It was an evening to not only honour the rich heritage of Pikangikum’s past but also to celebrate the youth that are its future.

The community pooled together its efforts to ensure that all the necessities for the memorable celebration were in order. With bannock, snacks, refreshments, fireworks and freebies set to the backdrop of a night of movies honouring Pikangikum’s traditions, it was a night like no other. Friends and families ensured that there was no shortage of lollipops, glow bracelets and other goodies for the children. Pikangikum Northern was proud to support the event by donating refreshments and providing gift cards for the celebration.

Members of Pikangikum’s police department, who had just as much fun giving away goodies as the youth receiving them, ensured the celebrations were safe and orderly. As the excitement of the evening settled, attendees gathered around a large bonfire burning brightly against the darkened sky. Together, they eagerly awaited the fireworks display that would cap off the evening with a bang. While some attendees played with smaller sparklers that sent sparks dancing onto the sand beneath their feet, the first firework – its high-pitched whistle signaling the first of many others that would follow suit – popped off with a colorful explosion that filled the night sky. Pikangikum First Nation Chief Dean Owen said it was “one of the best fireworks shows that Pikangikum has ever seen.”

“On behalf of Pikangikum First Nation and the Pikangikum Documentary Team, we would like to thank our Northern store for their contribution and support,” said Kim Sigurdson, Project Coordinator for Pikangikum First Nation. “A lot of children went home that night happy – very happy.”