New Westminster, BC — June 6, 2026 (11:00 AM – 5:00 PM) — Arts New West, Shop First Nations and Native Art Renaissance are proud to present the 5th anniversary of the Indigenous Market & Expressions of Reclamation, a vibrant, free, family-friendly event celebrating Indigenous art, culture, and community in the heart of downtown New Westminster.

Taking place on June 6 from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, this milestone event will feature over 65 Indigenous makers and artists showcasing handcrafted goods, artwork, and unique cultural creations. Visitors will have the opportunity to connect directly with artists and support Indigenous entrepreneurship.

“We’re proud to help create a space where Indigenous entrepreneurs, artists, and community leaders are not only visible, but celebrated,” says Rob Schulz, Métis entrepreneur and founder of Shop First Nations. “Five years is an important milestone because it shows the community keeps showing up. Not just to attend an event, but to build relationships and support the Indigenous economy in a tangible way.”

This year’s celebration is packed with engaging experiences for all ages. Attendees can:

• Celebrate the event opening with traditional dance and song from the Squamish Canoe Family
• Enjoy live performances throughout the day from George Leach, Kiva MH, IIona, Murray Porter, and Joseph Dandurand
• Experience the second annual Indigenous fashion show, highlighting stunning handmade designs by Indigenous creators
• Take part in a hands-on beading workshop led by artist Marisa Law and create a personalized piece to take home
• Contribute to a large community created paint-by-number activity guided by Indigenous artist Mike Alexander
• Explore the Spirit of the Children Society Teepee and learn more about their impactful community work

New West Craft Indigenous Market, New Westminster, BC – attendees browse selections from Indigenous maker LadyBear Designs

Celebrating Five Years of Indigenous Creativity and Community

Now celebrating its 5th anniversary, the Indigenous Market & Expressions of Reclamation has grown from a community market into one of New Westminster’s signature Indigenous cultural gatherings. Over five years, the event has created space for Indigenous artists, makers, performers, and food vendors to share their work directly with the public while helping residents and visitors take part in economic reconciliation through everyday purchasing and community connection.

Cultural entertainment at the New West Craft Indigenous Market

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, June 6, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location:,River Market & Westminster Quay Boardwalk (810 Quayside Drive, New Westminster)
Admission: Free

Scarves and beadwork by Amanda McDermott of Amanda Ruth Beads, one of many Indigenous makers at New West Craft Indigenous market.

Drummers at the New West Craft Indigenous Market in New Westminster, BC

Stay connected with updates and highlights from the Indigenous Market on Instagram

Indigenous-Led Vendor Selection Committee

This year’s vendor lineup has been carefully curated by our all-Indigenous Vendor Selection Committee, a group of community members, artists, and entrepreneurs who volunteer their time to ensure a fair, authentic, and diverse marketplace experience.

The 2026 Selection Committee includes:

• Stephen Armstrong (Xem-Tu-Mus) – Elder and cultural host/advisor, supporting cultural protocol, safety, and community connection
• Kiesha Janvier – Indigenous creative and fashion show lead 
• Tina Taphouse – Indigenous artist, photographer, designer 
• James Groening (Blue Sky) – Indigenous Curator, Woodland artist, and founder of Native Art Renaissance Foundation
• Diane Sugars – Founder of Whale Song Consultants, supporting Indigenous non-profits through advisory and leadership
• Rob Schulz – Métis entrepreneur and founder of Shop First Nations, supporting Indigenous business through e-commerce and digital storytelling

Thank You to Our Sponsors

As the market celebrates its fifth year, we are grateful for the sponsors and community supporters helping the event grow sustainably while remaining free and welcoming to the public.

Thank you to our 2026 sponsors and supporters, including:

• London Drugs
• Great Little Box Co.
• City of New Westminster.
• Tourism New Westminster
• BC Arts Council
• The Province of British Columbia