Saskatchewan’s multicultural heritage
There are many opportunities to learn about the history of Saskatchewan's people
Saskatchewan is known for its sunshine, its endless recreational opportunities and its diverse heritage. Visitors can enjoy a multitude of exciting and enriching activities and events—especially when they stop and stay for a while.
Jenelle Jakobsen, marketing specialist for Tourism Saskatchewan, said that like most of Canada, Saskatchewan has a rich multicultural mix of people in the province.
First Nations
“The area was first populated by the various indigenous peoples of North America,” said Jakobsen, “including members of the Cree, Nakota (Assiniboine), Lakota, Dakota, Saulteaux and Dene nations.”
A great place to visit is Wanuskewin, which is located just outside of Saskatoon. Visitors will learn the stories and lifestyles of the Northern Plains Indians who have gathered at this meeting place for over 6,000 years.
“Experience an overnight in a tipi, learn how to make bannock on the fire and hear traditional stories of the first peoples of the area,” said Jakobsen. “Given that this is still an active archaeological site, the longest running in Canada, you may run into an active dig while exploring the trails on site.”
Jakobsen said that powwows are a major highlight in the province throughout the year. These important cultural and social gatherings for the First Nations people of Saskatchewan bring together nations from all over North America.
The Metis can trace their descent to a mixture of First Nations and European heritage in Saskatchewan. The Batoche National Historic Site is a Metis settlement and the last battleground in the 1885 Northwest Resistance. Jacobsen said that the most celebrated Metis festival in North America, Back to Batoche Days, celebrates Metis culture and bring Metis people together from all across North America.
Many cultures
Saskatchewan's population grew rapidly after 1911, when many settlers came from all over Europe to homestead in the area. Jacobsen said that tourists can really soak up a lot about different cultures in the province. The Mosaic in Regina and Folk Fest in Saskatoon showcase the province's diverse multicultural heritage with different cultural pavilions throughout the city.
The Western Development museums throughout the province in Saskatoon, Yorkton, North Battleford and Moose Jaw each have a different theme and are the keepers of Saskatchewan’s heritage. As well, the Ukrainian Museum of Canada boasts the largest ethnic textile collection in North America, said Jacobsen.
