Long before the farmhouses, the berry fields, and the rodeo grounds, this land was home to the Semiahmoo, Katzie, and Kwantlen peoples — Coast Salish Nations who have lived on and cared for these rivers, wetlands, and forests since time immemorial. Their culture isn't preserved behind glass. It's here — in the art on the walls, the names of the places, and the communities that have called this land home since time immemorial.
Surrey's Indigenous culture is experienced in galleries, studios, and in businesses across the city. Here are some of the places worth visiting:
Totest Aleng: Indigenous Learning House
Totest Aleng – a SENĆOŦEN name meaning "learning house - is a working artist studio and gathering space in Elgin Heritage Park. The studio supports artists in residence and cultural practices including carving, beading, and cedar weaving, with an open-air pavilion for Indigenous-led workshops, events, and programs. Visits are by scheduled open house — check the events calendar to plan your trip.
Amelia Douglas Institute of Metis Culture and Language
Surrey's dedicated space for Métis culture and language, the Amelia Douglas Institute hosts rotating exhibitions celebrating Métis history, artistry, and the Michif language. Located next to SkyTrain Gateway Station in Surrey City Centre. Admission by donation; free for Métis citizens.
Indigenous Hall - Museum of Surrey
Presented by Katzie, Kwantlen, and Semiahmoo First Nations, the Indigenous Hall at the Museum of Surrey features exhibits developed in partnership with the three Nations, highlighting local stories, traditions, and contributions.
Two Pebbles Design Group
Surrey-based designers Amber Boutros and Wendy Salis create distinctive pieces for the home, with Wendy drawing on her Métis heritage and a preference for found and natural materials. Primarily online, with appearances at select craft fairs.
Ryan Hughes
Coast Salish artist and carver from the Snuneymuxw First Nation, now based in Surrey. Ryan's work spans wood carving, painting, and digital art — blending traditional and contemporary styles, and rooted in a commitment to sharing teachings and uplifting his community. Look for Ryan at markets and events around the city.
Eagle Woman Beads
Artist Natasha Toth crafts handmade jewellery using natural materials including abalone, dentalium, and howlite. Custom pieces available alongside ready-made designs — each one a way to support Indigenous artistry and wear something made with intention.
Cheryl's Trading Post
An Indigenous-owned online shop carrying handcrafted art, jewellery, clothing, and home décor from makers across Turtle Island. A good place to find beadwork, carvings, and other meaningful pieces while supporting Indigenous artists directly.
Stephen's Coffee
Indigenous-owned and Surrey-based, Stephen's Coffee is a small-batch roaster offering retail and wholesale blends — with names like Thunderbird, Orca, and Frog. Find them at local events serving cold brew and nitro coffee.
June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada, culminating in National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21. It's a meaningful time to learn, listen, and celebrate the cultures and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples across the country.
In Surrey, that means events, experiences, and opportunities to engage year-round. The resources below are a good place to start.
- Explore Indigenous Tourism BC for offerings and experiences all across British Columbia.
- Semiahmoo First Nation
- Katzie First Nation
- Kwantlen First Nation
- Métis Nation British Columbia
- Visit the Surrey Urban Indigenous Leadership Committee and read the All Our Relations Strategy for insights into the experiences of urban Indigenous life in Surrey.
- Explore the Halq'eméylem and SENĆOŦEN languages by visiting First Voices.
- Learn about traditional protocols, histories and current realities of Indigenous, Metis and Inuit people in Canada, and the misconceptions about the First People of this land by reading Surrey First Peoples Guide for Newcomers.