On the Prairies, intricate finger-woven sashes of colourful wool were adopted by the Métis people. They were not only a fashionable accessory, but also a useful piece of work wear (employed perhaps as a saddle blanket, a tow line or a towel – a hardworking tool!). These sashes became a rich symbol of Métis cultural identity. Each colour has a depth of meaning and story, unique to community and family.

Drop in to learn the basics of finger weaving techniques and start your own woven bracelet. Participation is free and guests can take home their projects.

Workshop led by Matt Hilterman, a Métis interpreter, artisan and ethnohistorian. As a descendant of the Pruden family (among others,) Matt has strong ties to the historic settlements of Edmonton, Fort Carlton, and Red River. He currently works as a Historian for Metis Nation of Alberta – Region 3.

Watch the process of rope making through traditional Blackfoot teachings and science with Winston Wadsworth. Learn about the different ways to weave, tie and twist materials for different strengths and uses.

This workshop is led by Winston Wadsworth. Oki niistoo’ niitaaniikoIitsitsaansskii (Sings in the trees). Winston is from the Kainai of Blackfoot Confederacy, and is a traditional craftsman who specializes in: hide tanning, drum making, beadwork/quillwork and traditional painting.

Taste test the summertime pow wow and fairground favourite: a taco in a bag!

Served in an individual bag of Zesty Cheese Doritos with premium taco toppings –option of beef or three sisters vegetarian chili.

Three sisters (corn, beans, squash) are a common trifecta across the Prairies, growing together and helping one another in a process called companion growing. The corn provides the stability for the beans, the beans provide nitrogen to the soil and the squash provides shade to the other plants and repels small rodents and over-hungry insects.

Listen to live fiddle music from the Denby Family. The unique sounds of Métis fiddle, guitar, and drum will get everyone in the dancing mood – bring your dancing shoes!

The Denby sisters, Breann and Kaleena, are proud Métis ambassadors, sharing their culture through traditional Métis fiddle music. Both sisters learned to play the fiddle by ear, and have performed across Calgary, including the University of Calgary's Indigenous Graduations. The Denby sisters are accompanied by their father Ralph on guitar, and their mother Yvette on percussion, drum and fiddle.

Led by Spark, try your hand at basic braiding and give your hair a little bit extra flair with some clip-in colour!

Supplies are limited, so first come first served.

This is KNOT a drill! This is a family-friendly contest that will surprise and delight those who dare to get in a family twist. There WILL be prizes for those largest human knots who manage to untie their group without unlinking hands (while supplies last).