Métis Crossing: 2-Night Immersive Experience

Aug. 7, 2024 - Aug. 9, 2024
Métis Crossing, Smoky Lake AB

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Métis Crossing, situated just 1.5 hours northeast of Edmonton, stands as Alberta's premier Métis cultural interpretive destination. It serves as a gathering place to share rich stories and foster an understanding of Métis history and customs. This three-day, two-night adventure, from August 7-9, 2024, guarantees a blend of learning, discovery and fun for participants of all ages.

Itinerary

Wednesday, August 7, 2024

3 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. - Check In
6 p.m. - Dinner (Opening prayer with Elder Elmer Ghostkeeper)
7 p.m. - Keynote with Dr. Paul Gareau
9 p.m. (ish) - Fire, star stories and sharing with Elder Elmer Ghostkeeper - Bannock and Smores

Evening keynote: Immerse yourself in the proud heritage of Métis culture with a lecture entitled Articulating Indigeneity: University Experiences of Identity by Dr. Paul Gareau, Associate Professor and Associate Dean in the Faculty of Native Studies.

Thursday, August 8, 2024

Day of Adventure: After breakfast, explore Métis Crossing's expansive grounds at your own pace, delving into historical exhibits, the Métis Farmyard, and the engaging children’s River Lot Play Area.

All-Ages Activities: Participate in activity stations offering hands-on experiences in Métis history, culture, language, and traditional ways of life.

Optional Experiences: Opt for an authentic Voyageur canoe trip along the North Saskatchewan River or step into the shoes of a Métis hunter with a natural archery course. (Limited space; extra fees and age restrictions apply.)

Evening Entertainment: Enjoy another delightful dinner complemented by a performance from talented fiddler Brianna Lizotte. Conclude the day with fireside s'mores and bannock.

Friday, August 9, 2024

Check-out: Anytime before 10 a.m.

Cost

$350 per person. This fee covers two breakfasts, one lunch, two dinners, base activities, grounds access and evening performances and activities. Accommodations are extra.

$250 for children between the ages of 5 and 12 years old.

Optional add-on activities:

  • Paddle into the Past ($79 per person)
  • Through the Eyes of the Hunter ($52.50 per person)

Accommodations

Book directly with Métis Crossing by phone 780.656.2224 or email lodgereception@metis.org before June 1, 2024 to ensure the best availability and rate. Visit Métis Crossing for accommodation details.

Accomodation options from

Lodge Room - $230
Executive Suite - $320
King Sky Watching Dome - $320
Family Sky Watching Dome - $380
Trappers Tent - $110
RV parking - $45
Tent - $25

If accommodations are cancelled within 24 hours of start time, a charge will be applied.

Lecturer Bio

paul-2023.jpeg

Dr. Paul L. Gareau is Michif/Métis born and raised in the Batoche Homeland. He is an associate professor and associate dean (graduate studies) in the Faculty of Native Studies at the University of Alberta. His research focuses on Métis studies/Indigenous studies and religious studies, co-constitutive identity, nationhood/peoplehood relations, and religion and relationality.

Performer Bio

Brianna Lizotte

Brianna Lizotte is a fiddler currently living in Edmonton, Alberta. She grew up in a household where music was played, whether it was from home videos or kitchen parties. At the age of 10, most of the musicians in her family passed away, so she took it upon herself to keep the music alive. This has led her to many opportunities such as competing twice in the Canadian Grand Masters, music festivals across Alberta and traveling to Rome to support the Métis delegates during their meetings with the Pope in 2022.

Event Contact

Trina Harrison
Indigenous Community & Partner Engagement
Office of Alumni Relations, University of Alberta
780-679-1626
indigenousalumni@ualberta.ca

Register

Cost
From $350 per person + accommodations.
Audience
Alumni
Community, Public
Faculty, Staff
Undergraduate Students
Graduate Students
Category
Alumni Arts, Culture Lectures, Seminars Presentations Tours