The second Monday of October is designated Indigenous Peoples Day in many parts of North America. This commemorative day recognizes and celebrates the history, culture, and contributions of Native American and First Nations peoples.
The hospitality industry has an opportunity to honor the occasion by showcasing and supporting Indigenous businesses, chefs, foods, and beverages. There are thoughtful ways restaurants and bars can mark the day:
- Feature dishes and drinks from Indigenous-owned establishments. You can collaborate on special menus to expand your offerings.
- Host Indigenous guest chefs for takeovers or pop-ups to showcase their skills and cuisine.
- Pour wines, beers, and spirits from Native-owned wineries, breweries, and distilleries to spotlight their craft.
- Decorate your space with art, textiles, or music from Indigenous creators and performers.
- Donate a portion of the day's proceeds to organizations supporting Indigenous communities.
The key is finding meaningful ways to celebrate that authentically reflect Indigenous identity, not promote stereotypes. This day is a chance to amplify Indigenous voices, not speak for them. Move beyond token acknowledgments and dig deeper into the diversity of Native cultures across North America. Partner respectfully with Indigenous businesses and groups to illuminate the vibrancy of their living cultures.
With open minds and good intentions, restaurants and bars can turn Indigenous Peoples Day into an impactful celebration of resilience. The hospitality industry has much to gain by honoring the enduring richness of Indigenous traditions. When done thoughtfully, you can pay homage to the cultures that have thrived on these lands since time immemorial.