Pelham brings immersive experiences to the community through Culture Days

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 12, 2025

Pelham, ON – The Town of Pelham is participating in Culture Days, a national event running September 19 through October 12, 2025, that invites Canadians to take part in free, interactive cultural experiences. This year, Pelham will offer several opportunities for residents through a variety of workshops, presentations and exhibits.

As part of Culture Days, Cultural Advisor Diindiisii Kwe (Bluejay Woman) will lead an in-person seminar on the Teachings of First Nations Sacred Medicines at the Meridian Community Centre on September 30. Diindiisii Kwe, also known as Jamie-Lyn Gillingham, is a Registered Band Member of Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. She will share her knowledge of the everyday use of Sacred Medicines, the purpose of Smudging, and Smudging etiquette, offering participants a meaningful opportunity to learn and reflect.

Culture Days programming will also include several workshops throughout including a Writing Workshop on Wednesday, October 1, led by Ridgeville-based author Yvonne Van Lankveld.  The session will explore the basics of writing, common challenges, and steps to publication. Space is limited and advance registration is required for all workshops.

Families are also invited to participate in Culture Days with a Drop-in Family Music Time on Thursday, October 9 at the Meridian Community Centre. Children will explore rhythm, pitch, and movement through singing, games, and interactive play. While the class is designed for ages three to six, younger siblings are welcome to join in the fun.

In addition, the Meridian Community Centre Atrium will host cultural displays throughout Culture Days, including a Welland Museum exhibit highlighting immigration to Niagara prior to the 1930s. The self-guided display will be open to the public from September 19 to October 13, offering a chance to reflect on Pelham’s history and cultural heritage.

“Culture Days provides opportunities for residents of all ages to connect, learn, and be part of the celebrating the importance of arts and culture in the community,” said Kristina Clint, Manager of Recreation Culture and Wellness.

Culture Days is a national celebration of arts and culture. Each year, millions of Canadians attend thousands of free participatory events that invite the public to go behind the scenes and get hands-on with the creative process.

For details, registration links and the full schedule of Pelham’s Culture Days activities, please visit www.pelham.ca/culturedays

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For media inquiries, please contact:

Leah Letford, Communications Specialist | 905-980-6653 | lletford@pelham.ca