It's that time of year again!
We are excited to announce that we will be hosting the annual Summer Solstice run on June 21st, 2025 on National Indigenous Peoples Day in Millbrook, NS! As always, there will be a 5K, 10K and 2K run with a post run breakfast social. Warmup starts at 8am!
We are pleased to say that our 5k and 10k are Athletics Canada Certified!
10K RUN • 5K RUN/WALK • 2K RUN/WALK
Thank you for another great year!
We would like to thank our sponsors and everyone who joined us for the 2025 Summer Solstice run held June 21st in Millbrook, NS. As always, it was amazing to see everyone who participated and helped out with the 5K, 10K, and kids 2K run and post-run breakfast social.
2025 Summer Solstice Run Photos
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- Run NS Team
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- Water and Snack Station
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- MC Madi Googoo and Melody
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- Team NS Lacrosse Team Voluteers
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- TD’s Pheroz Austin
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- Language and Culture Specialist Sunshine Paul-Martin and Friend
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- Mikjikj
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- Pheroz, Chris and Mikjikj
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- Warm Up TIme!
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- Brady kicking off 10k
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- Javis leading the 5k
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- The Amazing Millbrook’s Security Team lead, Adam Francis!
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- 94 year old Albert with his Running Buddies
The Summer Solstice Run Highlights Two Major Causes:
Healthy Lifestyle – In its commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles, Ulnooweg continues to support physical activity in Indigenous communities by sponsoring and organizing a major run each year while offering the opportunity for each community to participate virtually.
Community Healing – In addition to promoting an atmosphere of healing, Ulnooweg hopes to capture the spirit of Truth and Reconciliation by inviting non-Indigenous communities to join our community and cultural hospitality at the Summer Solstice Run each year.
Ulnooweg Summer Solstice Run 2025 Medals
Inspired by the Theme of Unity
Ulnooweg Summer Solstice Run 2025
The 2025 Ulnooweg Summer Solstice Run is guided by Maukwajik, a Mi’kmaq word meaning “a united group.” This theme was chosen to honour the strength found in unity — a reflection of how communities thrive when they come together, especially in times when division is all too common.
This year’s medal design draws inspiration from the renowned “Bedford 8-Pointed Star” petroglyph — an ancient Mi’kmaq carving believed to predate European contact. Deeply connected to the sweat lodge and other ceremonial teachings, this symbol has become a powerful emblem of Mi’kmaq identity, spirituality, and cultural continuity.
Mi’kmaq-Okanagan artist Carew Tironiate Meuse, known as Cruzer, reimagined the petroglyph through a modern, geometric style. The medals are uniquely designed so that a full version of the 8-pointed star is revealed only when one 10K medal, two 5K medals, and two 2K medals are joined together. In this way, the design brings Maukwajik to life — each runner carries a piece of the whole, and it is only through unity that the full image emerges.
About the Artist
Carew Tironiate Meuse, also known as Cruzer, is a Mi’kmaq and Okanagan artist from Bear River, Nova Scotia, and Penticton, British Columbia. A self-taught artist, his creative roots lie in comic book illustration — sketching favourite heroes and studying the techniques of artists he admired. Over time, his passion evolved into graphic design, with a focus on creating visual identities for Indigenous-led projects.
In 2025, with support from Ulnooweg Development Group, Cruzer officially started his own graphic design company, continuing to share visual stories grounded in Indigenous culture, creativity, and connection. We look forward to seeing his continual growth in this industry. Wela’lioq, Cruzer!
Summer Solstice Route Map - 2k, 5k, 10k
Wela'liek to our 2025 Sponsors
Volunteer at the Ulnooweg Summer Solstice Run
Are you passionate about health, wellness, and community events? We’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers to join our team and help make the Ulnooweg Solstice Run a huge success!
As a volunteer, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to a meaningful event that promotes health and well-being in our community. You’ll also gain valuable experience, connect with like-minded individuals, and have a great time participating in this exciting event.
How to Sign Up as a Volunteer
Signing up to volunteer is easy! Just visit our Solstice Run Volunteer Signup Form to provide your contact information, availability, and any specific areas of interest or expertise. We’ll be in touch to discuss volunteer opportunities and confirm your participation.
Together, we can make a difference in our community and create an unforgettable experience for everyone involved in the Ulnooweg Solstice Run. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity – sign up to volunteer today!
New this year: the Ulnooweg Health Expo!
Get ready for an exciting and health-focused event at the Ulnooweg Health Expo, taking place in conjunction with our annual Solstice Run! We’re bringing together a diverse range of health and wellness vendors to showcase their products and services to runners, health enthusiasts, and community members alike. Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to promote your business and connect with potential customers passionate about healthy living.
Vendor Opportunities at the Health Expo
We’re now accepting vendor signups for the Ulnooweg Health Expo. Secure your spot today and become part of this vibrant event. Here’s what you need to know:
- Booth spaces are 10×10 feet outdoors.
- Pricing: $125 for businesses, $75 for non-profits.
- Vendors must provide their own tent, tables, and chairs.
Sign Up Today!
To participate in the Ulnooweg Health Expo, simply fill out our Vendor Signup Form. The form will guide you through providing information about your business, booth setup, and payment details. By signing up, you agree to our terms and conditions outlined in the form.
We can’t wait to work together to promote health and wellness in our community. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us at [email protected].
