First Peoples’ International Festival
– August 5 to 14, 2025 –
The 35th edition of the International First Peoples Festival has come to a close, and we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude.
Thank you to the artists who shared their talents and voices, to the guests who joined us from all corners of the world, to our loyal and curious audience, and to the teams and volunteers whose dedication made these incredible days possible.
A huge thank you also to our partners: your trust and support allow the festival to grow and shine brighter each year. Without you, this major celebration of First Peoples cultures would not be the same.
During these intense days, Montreal pulsed with the sounds and stories of Indigenous voices through film, music, dance, visual arts, and countless moments of exchange and dialogue.
We leave with precious memories and powerful emotions—but above all, with a renewed desire to keep these voices heard and thriving.
See you next year for a vibrant 36th edition (yes, we’re already looking forward to it)!
The 2025 First Peoples Festival will kick off its 35th edition on Tuesday, August 5 at 7:30 PM at Théâtre Outremont, with an evening full of discovery and emotion.
Bunna Lawrie, an Aboriginal Elder from the Mirning Nation and a highly respected figure in Australia, will be the guest of honor. He begins a spiritual journey across the Americas, starting in Montreal.
Sedalia Fazzio, a Mohawk Elder, will open the ceremony and welcome guests from near and far.
The festival will feature:
“Midnight at the Lonely River” by Abraham Côté
“Moon Belly -Vientre de la luna” by Liliana K’an, a poetic film in the Tsotsil language
“Inkwo for When the Starving Return” by Amanda Strong (animated short)
The evening will also include two additional short films and a speech by André Dudemaine, the festival’s artistic director.
Cultural Activities
22 August 2025
Esther Willow
Since her performance in Montreal at The First People’s Festival in 2015, Esther Pennell has been…
See Details
29 August 2025
Malorie Y. Picard
Malorie Yawenda Picard, a member of the Wendat Nation, was born in Trois-Rivières, grew up in…
See Details
