What upcoming events does the Assembly of First Nations host?
Updated
The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) lists four upcoming events on afn.ca: the 4th National Climate Gathering (Oct 5–8, 2026, Hamilton), the First Nations-First Ministers' Meeting 2026 (Oct 26, 2026, Ottawa), the Special Chiefs Assembly 2026 (Dec 8–10, 2026, Ottawa), and the 3rd Annual National Natural Resources Forum (Feb 1–4, 2027, Montreal). All four are listed as in-person events, and each has an "Event Details" link on the site for registration and logistics. The dates below reflect what the site currently shows, so confirm details on the event page before making travel plans.
Upcoming AFN events at a glance
| Event | Dates | Location | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4th National Climate Gathering | Oct 5–8, 2026 | Hamilton Convention Centre, Hamilton | In-person |
| First Nations-First Ministers' Meeting 2026 | Oct 26, 2026 | Ottawa, ON | In-person |
| Special Chiefs Assembly 2026 | Dec 8–10, 2026 | Rogers Centre Ottawa | In-person |
| 3rd Annual National Natural Resources Forum | Feb 1–4, 2027 | Le Centre Sheraton Montreal, Montreal, Quebec | In-person |
What each event is
4th National Climate Gathering
Subtitled "Strengthening First Nations Climate Leadership: Braiding Relationships, Knowledge Systems, and Inherent Responsibilities," this is the AFN's featured event. It runs four days at the Hamilton Convention Centre and centers on First Nations climate leadership.
First Nations-First Ministers' Meeting 2026
A one-day, in-person meeting in Ottawa on October 26, 2026, bringing First Nations and federal ministers together.
Special Chiefs Assembly 2026
A three-day assembly at the Rogers Centre Ottawa from December 8–10, 2026. Special Chiefs Assemblies are part of how the AFN conducts business with Chiefs and proxies from member First Nations.
3rd Annual National Natural Resources Forum
A four-day forum at Le Centre Sheraton Montreal from February 1–4, 2027, focused on natural resources.
How to find details and register
- Go to afn.ca and find the "Upcoming Events" section on the homepage.
- Select the event you want — each listing has an "Event Details" link.
- Open that page for the agenda, registration, and any fee or eligibility information.
The site does not state registration costs, deadlines, or whether attendance is open to the general public versus Chiefs and delegates. Check the individual event page or contact the AFN directly for those specifics rather than assuming open registration.
Why these events matter
The AFN is a national advocacy organization that advances the collective aspirations of First Nations individuals and communities across Canada. It takes direction and fulfills mandates set by First Nations-in-Assembly through resolutions, and it hosts two Assemblies a year where those mandates and directives are established. The Special Chiefs Assembly listed above is one of those gatherings, which makes it a working session for AFN direction rather than a general public conference. The Climate Gathering and Natural Resources Forum sit within the AFN's broader advocacy work on environment and lands, and on economy and infrastructure.
Common questions
Are these events open to anyone? The site does not say. Assemblies are directed by elected Chiefs or proxies from member First Nations, so attendance rules differ by event — confirm on the event page.
Is there a virtual option? All four are listed as in-person only.
Where do I register? Through the "Event Details" link on each listing at afn.ca.
Do dates change? They can. The listings reflect current site information, so re-check before booking travel.