Celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day
On Monday, October 13, 2025, we’ll celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day, honoring Indigenous peoples and commemorating their history and culture. The Charles River was named the “Quinobequin” by Indigenous peoples long before European colonization, meaning “meandering”, for the winding way it flows from Hopkinton to the Boston Harbor.
At CRWA, our work is carried out across the traditional territory of the Massachusett, Nipmuc, and Wampanoag Nations, and we recognize Indigenous people as past, present, and future caretakers of our watershed. This Indigenous Peoples Day, we invite you to join one of these events throughout the watershed:
Saturday, October 11: Experience one of the oldest living musical traditions of Broikén (Puerto Rico) at the free and family-friendly Arlington Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration featuring BOMBAntillana.
Saturday, October 11: Send the message that we must honor and acknowledge the Indigenous history of Massachusetts and the continued presence of Indigenous peoples throughout the state at the Boston Indigenous Peoples Day March.
Sunday, October 12: The Pigsgusset Initiative is hosting an Indigenous Peoples Day celebration in Watertown featuring Indigenous music, artists, food, crafts, and vendors. Presenters include the Wampanoag Nation Singers and Dancers and storyteller Teddy Hendricks (Mashpee Wampanoag, Nipmuc).
Monday, October 13: Volunteer or visit IPD Newton’s Indigenous Peoples Day Ceremonial Celebration, where over 1,000 people gathered to support 70+ local Indigenous businesses and nonprofits. Enjoy live music, art demonstrations, and cultural presentations. Eat delicious food and celebrate Indigenous peoples!
Monday, October 13: Visit the Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston for free on Indigenous Peoples’ Day (Advanced tickets are required and will be available to reserve beginning on Sunday, October 12, at 10 am).
Monday, October 13: Massachusetts residents can visit the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston for free on Indigenous Peoples’ Day (Tickets are available in person on a first-come, first-served basis).
