Countless Journeys. One Canada.
The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 is located in a former gateway to Canada where almost one million immigrants arrived in this country. War brides, refugees, immigrants and Canadian troops all passed through this historic site between 1928 and 1971. In addition to telling the stories of the Pier 21 years, the Canadian Immigration Story, our second permanent exhibition covers over 400 years of immigration history. From first contact to present day, this space examines the diverse experiences and vast contributions of newcomers to Canada’s culture, economy and way of life. A new 10-minute immersive multimedia experience was added in 2021.
Visitors can also look into their own family’s arrival story with a stop at the Scotiabank Family History Centre where select immigration records, passenger lists and ships database can be accessed .
New and Upcoming
Operation Parasol: Urgent need, swift action
May 3 to July 28, 2024
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the resettlement and repatriation of Kosovar refugees. Around 7,000 Kosovar refugees fled the former Federal Republic of Yugoslavia in 1999. Thousands of them found a safe haven in Canada through Operation Parasol, a quick and effective collaboration between the Canadian government and humanitarian groups.
Slavery in Canada
August to December 2024
Forced migration through slavery played a significant role in the early settlement of Canada. While little-known by most Canadians, its legacy is still felt today. Slavery was the dominant condition for African Canadians for over two centuries from 1629 until its abolishment 1834 across the British Empire. As far as we are aware, this exhibition is the first of its kind examining the history of slavery in Canada. Created by guest curator Dr. Afua Cooper of Dalhousie University, one of the top experts in this field and in partnership with the Black Cultural Centre of Nova Scotia.
New for 2025
EAT MAKE SHARE
Next year the Museum will be taking a deep dive into food and immigration! From pierogis to hummus immigration continues to evolve the way we eat, make and share food in Canada. Dig into this flavourful exhibition at the Canadian Museum of Immigration starting May 2025. National tour begin 2026!