At The Village at Black Creek, history is continually evolving. The First Saturdays: Through Their Eyes series returns for 2026 with a compelling line-up of artists and storytellers who reinterpret the past through modern, diverse perspectives.

Running every first Saturday from May to November 2026, the programme invites visitors to engage with Indigenous, cultural, and community voices in ways that challenge traditional historical narratives. Through hands-on activities, performances, and demonstrations, guests are encouraged to see history not as fixed, but as something shaped by lived experience.

A creative platform for cultural expression

This monthly series transforms the Village into a dynamic space where art and storytelling intersect. Each session highlights a different discipline—from textile arts to music and oral storytelling—offering visitors the chance to interact directly with artists and learn about their creative processes.

The initiative is part of Black Creek’s broader commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that stories from equity-deserving communities are represented and celebrated. Visitors leave not only with a deeper understanding of history, but also with a stronger connection to the diverse cultures that continue to shape Canada today.

2026 First Saturdays schedule

May 2, 2026 – Textile Art & Drop Spindle Spinning: Wen Shen
Create, spin, and connect with textile artist Wen Shen. Participants craft a miniature sweater using Border Leicester wool while exploring fibre traditions through her 10 Stories exhibition, blending historical techniques with contemporary artistic expression.

June 6, 2026 – For Pride: Queers in Your Ears Storytellers
Celebrate Pride through powerful storytelling. Queers in Your Ears present narratives that reimagine 19th-century lives, sharing stories of identity, belonging, and community that connect past experiences with present-day perspectives.

July 4, 2026 – Wood Carving: Barry Best
Begin summer with Inuk eco-artist Barry Best. Explore his Spirit Winds exhibit, watch live spoon carving demonstrations, and sketch your own designs while learning about the cultural and environmental significance of his work.

August 1, 2026 – Music presented by FabCollab
Experience a vibrant fusion of performance styles as FabCollab brings together flamenco, Indigenous shawl dancing, and live music. This energetic showcase transforms the Village into a lively celebration of movement, rhythm, and cultural exchange.

September 5, 2026 – Textile Weaving: Tracey-Mae Chambers
Weave, reflect, and connect with Métis artist Tracey-Mae Chambers. Participants create mini weavings inspired by themes of hope and healing, exploring identity and resilience through fibre art practices rooted in community storytelling.

October 3, 2026 – Jewish Storytelling: Eden Nameri
Discover the traditions of Sukkot through storytelling and hands-on experiences. This session explores themes of harvest, community, and belonging, offering insight into Jewish cultural practices within both historical and contemporary contexts.

November 7, 2026 – Indigenous Medicines and Plant Learning: Tanya Glukokov
Gather and learn about Indigenous winter medicines with Mohawk herbalist Tanya Glukokov of Roots and Raven. This session explores plant knowledge, seasonal practices, and cultural teachings centred on wellness and connection to the land.

An ongoing dialogue between past and present

By spanning multiple months and artistic disciplines, First Saturdays: Through Their Eyes creates an ongoing dialogue between history and contemporary culture. Each visit offers something new, encouraging repeat attendance and deeper engagement.

For those seeking a meaningful cultural experience in Toronto, the 2026 series provides an opportunity to connect with art, heritage, and community in a way that is both educational and inspiring.