The Toronto Zoo is marking the 2022 National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Sept. 30 by offering complimentary admission to Indigenous peoples, as well as programming, ceremonies and interactive experiences that will educate guests and memorialize the painful impact of residential schools in Canada.

To commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we are offering complimentary admission on Sept 30th to Indigenous Peoples and hosting programming throughout the day in partnership with Native Child and Family Services of Toronto.

Details: https://t.co/GUkp7ENeMu pic.twitter.com/IPYVKcFuiq

— The Toronto Zoo (@TheTorontoZoo) September 27, 2022

Guests self-identifying as Indigenous people — which includes all First Nation, Métis, Inuit and non-status First Nations people — will be granted free parking and admission without the need for proof of identification. Indigenous guests can proceed directly to the gate without the need for any online ticket purchase.

The Zoo will be welcoming Native Child and Family Services Toronto and Dnaagdawenmag Binnoojiiyag Child & Family Services for special programming throughout the day.

Visitors can experience and learn about Indigenous culture through programming like an opening ceremony at the front entrance at 9:30 a.m. featuring traditional smudge, singing and drumming

From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., guests can experience traditional singing and drumming, Indigenous storytelling and interactive experiences at the First Nations Art Garden near Caribou Café.

Singer and drummer Nenookaasi Ogichidaa will be performing from 9 a.m. to noon, while traditional storyteller Monique will be sharing the story of Phyllis Webstad (the Orange Shirt Story) at the First Nations Art Garden from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.