The Don River Awakens: A Community Costume and Puppet Procession

The Don River Awakens: A Community Costume & Puppet Procession

As the sun sets, the Don River will come alive. Join neighbors, artists, and community partners for a lantern-lit procession led by and Indigenous artist Kayos Jones. Together we’ll move through Ookwemin Minising, carrying puppets, lanterns, and costumes that honor the river’s life and celebrate its renewal.

This free, family-friendly event transforms the park into a living artwork, civic ritual, and community celebration where art, ecology, and culture meet.

Bring a lantern, puppet, or nature-inspired costume, or simply bring your presence and curiosity—all are welcome.

Rain or shine, the river flows in all weather.

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The procession is part of .

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The Don River Awakens is produced by in partnership with .

Additional support and partnership is provided by , , , local and indigenous artists and leaders in Tkaronto.

Special thanks to our friends and Kayos Jones for their leadership and collaboration.

The Don River Awakens is generously funded by the .

Info: Join us and hear some words from lead artists, and city staff as we will gather on the south west side of the Badlands Playground area near the log seating in Biidaasige Park. Welcome remarks will open the evening and set the stage for the procession.

Info: Join us for a 30 minute Salmon Lantern Procession through Biidaasige Park with sunset beginning at 6:18pm. We will walk along the river’s edge on the paved pathways meandering through the park. Everyone is welcome to march with us! Come in costume, bring your lanterns, carry a puppet, or simply walk with us in the spirit of celebration. Together we will fill the park with light, movement, and music as we honour the Don River as an ecological wonder and welcome the rebirth of Ookwemin Minising and Biidaasige Park.

The procession will conclude at the far end of the park near the Indigenous shade structure, just as dusk falls.

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