Canada Day will take on a more reflective tone this year after hundreds of unmarked graves were found at former residential school sites in recent weeks.
Many cities and towns across the country have decided to pause their usual celebrations to allow for a time of solemn reflection.
Some communities and Indigenous groups are hoping to fill the gaps with events based around education and reconciliation.
In Grand Bay-Westfield, a community gathering will take place at the Brundage Point River Centre at noon.
Gary Gould of the Wolastoqey Nation will be on hand to share some of the history of the Wolastoqey in the area.
All attendees are asked to wear orange to the event and town staff say orange ribbons will also be available.
Eastern Circle, an Indigenous-led community group in Saint John, and Hearts of Saint John will use the opportunity to host a healing walk through the trails of Rockwood Park on Thursday morning.
Attendees are invited to arrive at the parking lot near the Rockwood Park petting zoo beginning at 10 a.m. and the walk will begin around 10:30 a.m.
Eastern Circle is asking guests to wear orange, red, or black, in addition to weather-appropriate clothing.
A National Indian Residential School Crisis Line has been set up to provide support for former residential school students. The toll-free line can be accessed 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling 1-866-925-4419.
