Not only is Saturday the longest day of the year with the summer solstice, it’s also National Indigenous Peoples Day.
The summer solstice holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for many Indigenous Peoples, marking a time of renewal.
Fort Whoop-Up celebrates with free programming throughout the day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
There will be brand-new programs launched earlier this year, the return of wagon rides, say hello to the resident donkeys Jackie and Fernando and discover stories and teachings about the Blackfoot people, the Metis and early settlers.
Site Coordinator Connor Kenney says free admission day is being held, so economics doesn’t become a barrier for people to visit Fort Whoop-Up to experience all the programs being offered.
“Throughout the day we’ll be having different programs people can come and try out and there’s no additional charge.”
Activities include a bag craft, candle making, hide tanning and stretching demonstrations and a tipi raising.
“We’ll also be doing some roping and lasso games,” adds Kenney. “All of these will be free flowing and spread throughout the Fort, so guests can come in and take a look at the activities and programs or the Blackfoot Gallery.”
At 11 a.m., the Helen Schuler Nature Centre will be joining for the day, Kenney notes. “They’ll be setting up a plant booth just outside of the Fort and provide people with different print materials, explaining the different kinds of plants and wildlife found in the River Valley.”
Kenney says the Fort’s newer Blackfoot Gallery is entering its third season. “It’s a really great exhibit that talks about the Blackfoot people, not only in the past, but also what they’re up to today.”
Saturday is not only a celebration of the Blackfoot people, Kenney adds, but all the First Nations in Canada.
All the activities being offered on Saturday, Kenney explains, are new programs being piloted this year. “It’s a bunch of new stuff, instead of your typical guided tour experience, we want to experiment with more skill-based activities, so people can come in multiple times throughout the summer season and be able to experience different programs.”
For more information visit online at National Indigenous Peoples Day — Fort Whoop-Up.
Lethbridge and District Exhibition will also host a National Indigenous Peoples Day celebration from 12-7 p.m.
According to the City of Lethbridge, the day will feature a free community feast, live bands, traditional dancers and drumming, a tipi and Indigenous village and an artisan market.
For the complete schedule and list of vendors, follow Reconciliation Lethbridge on Facebook.
The Lethbridge Public Library Main Branch will also feature Indigenous tacos, live performances and a round dance from 1-3 p.m.
Both branches will host crafts and activities for kids all day too.
(Photo by Stan Ashbee)
(Photo by Stan Ashbee)
