Civic closures and local events: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation 2025

September 23, 2025

Public Service Announcement

September 30 marks the National Day for Truth & Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day. The day honours the experiences of those affected by the residential school system while also acknowledging the strength and resilience of intergenerational survivors. Flags at all City properties and parks will be lowered to half-mast from sunrise to sunset to commemorate the day.

Civic Facility Hours and Closures

On Tuesday, September 30:

City Hall will be closed in observance of the statutory holiday.
Parkinson Recreation Centre will operate with adjusted hours from 10 am to 3 pm
Glenmore Landfill will remain open during regular hours, 7:30 am to 4:45 pm
Kelowna Memorial Cemetery administration office will be closed, but gates will remain open from 7 am to 9 pm

Access to the City’s online service request system is available 24/7 at kelowna.ca/onlineservices.

Community Events

This year, a number of community organizations and partners are hosting learning activities about the history and culture of the syilx Nation.

Walking Together: Dr. Niigaan Sinclair on Truth and Reconciliation
Online via Zoon, Sept. 25, 4pm
Dr. Niigaan Sinclair, renowned Anishinaabe scholar, writer, and public intellectual will lead a compelling and timely discussion on Truth and Reconciliation, exploring the ongoing journey of healing and justice between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada. This session will offer a space to reflect on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, the importance of education and allyship, and the role each of us plays in building a more just and respectful society. For info, visit: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/HIP/events/walking-together/

Museum Exhibit: syilx showcase
Sncewips Heritage Museum, Sept. 30, 10am to 5pm
The Sncewips Heritage Museum will be open on September 30. Visit showcase art exhibits made by the syilx community in relation to this historic event that occurred. For info, visit: https://www.sncewips.com/trc-day-event

(Un)learn with Kelowna Museums
Okanagan Heritage Museum, Sept. 30, 1pm to 4pm
Learn more about the residential school experience in the Okanagan. Join the hands-on activities and create a small keepsake. Take away new perspectives on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This event is by donation. For info, visit: https://culturedays.ca/en/events/4b5c6435-90e1-448f-af23-a04727baf82a

Community March
Ki-Low-Na Friendship Society (KFS), Sept. 30, 10am to 1pm
Community march from KFS to City Park for speeches and candlelight vigil. Soup and Bannock served at KFS following the march. For info, visit: https://downtownkelowna.com/events-archive/national-truth-reconciliation-day/

Orange Shirt Day - Community Event & Ceremony
Metis Community Services Society of BC, Sept. 30, 1pm to 4pm
Visit Mamawapowin Centre at 1580 Bernard Ave for drumming ceremonies, history sharing and storytelling. Painting rocks to be placed in honour of the children. For info, visit: https://mcsbc.org/event/orange-shirt-day/

“Orange Hearts” art exhibit at Kelowna International Airport
Kelowna International Airport pre-security terminal, Sept. 24-30
Flying in or out of Kelowna? In honour of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, students of Watson Road Elementary School have created a powerful mixed media collage on display for passengers and public at the airport. Titled ‘Orange Hearts’, the exhibit features a symbolic forest created with over 600 handmade tiles.