Hero Slide _ Smile Cookie
ONTARIO CULTURE DAYS
About Culture Days
September 18 - October 4, 2026
Aurora Public Library is proud to participate in Ontario Culture Days, a national celebration that brings people together through arts, culture, heritage, and storytelling. Each year, millions of Canadians take part in free events that encourage exploration, creativity, learning, and connection. This September, we invite you to celebrate with us through a diverse lineup of cultural experiences, including live music, community festivals, cultural conversations, poetry, film screenings, and programs recognizing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Whether you're discovering a new tradition, sharing your own story, or simply enjoying an afternoon of cultural exploration, there's something for everyone at APL during Culture Days.
ECHOES OF TRUTH
Hands-On Beading & Medicine Bag Workshop
Wednesday September 9 | Time Pending
From hands-on creation to powerful storytelling, Echoes of Truth is a two-part journey of culture, learning, and reflection on the path toward reconciliation.
Join us for a hands-on cultural learning experience guided by Carol and Janis, where participants are invited to explore Indigenous craft traditions through beading and the creation of medicine bags.
This interactive workshop offers a welcoming space for creativity, storytelling, and reflection, with opportunities to learn through doing and connect with Indigenous teachings and knowledge.
All materials will be provided. All are welcome.
INDIAN HORSE
Film Screening
Monday September 14 | 6:00 PM | Magna Room
Follows the life of Canadian First Nations boy, Saul Indian Horse, as he survives residential school and life amongst the racism of the 1970s. A talented hockey player, Saul must find his own path as he battles stereotypes and alcoholism. Rated 14A
TUESDAY TUNES
Music By Ruby Tuesday
Tuesday September 15 | 6:00 - 8:00 PM | Living Room
Ruby Tuesday is a female acoustic duo from Stouffville, ON. They have performed at numerous local events, including the Stouffville Terry Fox Run, Richmond Hill Canada Day, Markham Museum’s Applefest, Wintersong Music Festival, as well as various local bars and festivals.
Most recently, they were voted Diamond Winners for Favourite Local Band in the York Region Reader’s Choice Awards.
Ruby Tuesday performs fan-favourite songs, primarily from the 1990s, that are sure to get audiences singing along
In partnership with York Region Open Mic, Steffi Goodfield
FROM PAGES TO PERFORMANCE
Celebrating Culture Through Music, Dance & Spoken Word
Sunday September 20 | 2:00 - 4:00 PM
Join us for an inspiring afternoon where stories are brought to life through music, song, spoken word, and contemporary dance, celebrating culture, creativity, and artistic expression.
This multidisciplinary performance highlights diverse artistic traditions and voices, weaving together rhythm, movement, and storytelling in a dynamic shared experience.
Experience how words on a page transform into performance, rich with culture, connection, and expression.
All are welcome to attend this vibrant community event.
In partnership with York Chamber Ensemble, Michael Berec, Erika MacNeil & Karishma Budhrani
HARVEST MOON
Mid Autumn Festival
September 26 | 2:00 - 4:00 PM | Living Room
Join us for a joyful afternoon celebrating the beauty and traditions of the Mid-Autumn Festival under the spirit of the Harvest Moon.
Enjoy a vibrant cultural performance featuring music and dance highlighting artistic traditions, community connection, and seasonal celebration.
This special event invites all ages to come together in appreciation of culture, heritage, and the shared meaning of gathering during this festive time of year.
All are welcome to attend.
In partnership with Huayun Aurora Multi-Cultural Association
ARAB VOICES IN CANADA: The Soul of the East
An Afternoon of Poetry & Music
Sunday September 27 | 2:00 - 4:00 PM | Living Room
Join us for an afternoon of poetry and music celebrating the richness, depth, and diversity of Arab artistic expression in Canada.
Experience a moving program of spoken word and live music that reflects themes of identity, heritage, memory, and cultural connection, offering space for reflection and shared understanding through the arts.
All are welcome to attend this inspiring cultural performance.
In partnership with the Seagull Cultural Forum
ECHOES OF TRUTH
Voices, Stories & Reconciliation Gathering
Tuesday September 29 | 6:30 - 8:00 PM | Living Room
Join us for an evening of learning, reflection, and dialogue as we come together in the spirit of Truth and Reconciliation.
This community gathering will feature educational perspectives, lived experience storytelling, cultural practices, and music, offering space for meaningful reflection on the history and ongoing impacts of residential schools, while also honouring resilience, healing, and Indigenous knowledge.
The event will include a smudging ceremony, guest speakers, and opportunities for community reflection and conversation.
All are welcome to attend as we listen, learn, and walk forward together on the path toward reconciliation.
In partnership with Ontario Provincial Police
NECHAKO - IT WILL BE A BIG RIVER AGAIN
Nechako - It Will Be A Big River Again.
Film Screening
Wednesday September 30 | 7:00 PM | Living Room
Join us for a powerful documentary by Indigenous filmmaker Lyana Patrick that explores the impact of the Kenney Dam on the Nechako River and the ongoing efforts of the Stellat’en and Saik’uz Nations to restore the river, their lands, and their way of life. Through stories of resilience, advocacy, and cultural preservation, Nechako shines a light on Indigenous-led environmental justice and community strength.
Presented in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
SIKSIKAKOWAN: THE BLACK FOOT MAN
Film Screening
Wednesday September 30 | ALL DAY | Virtual Screening
Join us for a powerful documentary by Siksika Nation filmmaker Sinakson Trevor Solway that offers an intimate exploration of Indigenous identity, family, and masculinity.
Through heartfelt conversations with Blackfoot fathers, sons, artists, athletes, and community members, the film challenges stereotypes and highlights the strength, vulnerability, and resilience found across generations.
Set against the breathtaking landscapes of the Prairies, Siksikakowan: The Blackfoot Man provides a meaningful reflection on culture, kinship, and what it means to be an Indigenous man today.
Presented in recognition of Indigenous voices, storytelling, and cultural expression.
Register at bit.ly/49tuKTI