National Ribbon Skirt Day in Canada is a day dedicated to understanding, respecting and supporting Indigenous cultures and histories.
January 4, 2026

The day was inspired by Isabella Kulak, a fifth grader from Cote First Nation, who in 2020 was told her ribbon skirt wasn’t formal enough for the school’s Formal Day. Ribbon skirts hold cultural and spiritual significance for many Indigenous Peoples, symbolizing identity, resilience and connection to heritage. Isabella’s story sparked a movement that led to the successful passage of Bill S-219 in 2022 by Senator Mary Jane McCallum, to formally recognize this important day on January 4, 2023.

To learn more about the importance of Ribbon Skirt Day!