You may be able to divine from the fact that Terradrift is a vegan and adventure travel blog that we’re not big on rodeos. (If not, consider this a brief introduction: vegans don’t tend to be fond of rodeos). Too much potential for animals (and people) to get hurt (among other reasons). But if you find yourself in Calgary, Canada during the famous Calgary Stampede, the city’s most popular event of the year, you might be wondering what you’re missing out on if you didn’t get tickets (vegan or not). The Indian Village is one of the biggest attractions, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still participate in First Nations experiences in Calgary. Heck, why not supplement your education even if you do have tickets to the Stampede? Here are 6 ways to do so. Appreciate, don’t appropriate!
The Glenbow Museum
For 40,000 First Nations artifacts from around the world, look no further than this museum. There are exhibits covering much of Calgary’s and Canada’s history, but the highlight might be the rooms upon rooms of Indigenous exhibits telling of the dark and storied history of the country’s native residents and how things have shifted and changed over the decades. There’s also Indigenous art and, if you’re lucky, a Blackfoot tour guide to fill in the gaps of information with personal and touching stories of his own past. It’s a place where conversations can be had, even if they aren’t easy ones to start.
Moonstone Creation
If it’s authentic souvenirs you want, the items you’ll find here are handcrafted by actual First Nations artists. You’ll find jewelry, hand-beaded bags, dreamcatchers, even clothing. Fair warning: there’s a fair bit of leather, feathers and bone within these walls, but most of it was from animals that were hunted by First Nations people who then used every single part of the animal, from meat to sinew. It’s part of the culture, and while I might not personally buy a pair of deer hide moccasins, I support the right of Indigenous people to make a living promoting their heritage. Fortunately, there are plenty of animal-free handcrafted items to choose from, from wall art to bracelets.
Heritage Park
Opened way back in 1964 as a pioneer-themed park, it’s now Canada’s largest living history museum, full of first nations experiences in Calgary. And it’s not just for kids. I learned how to erect a teepee, tried my hand at starting a fire with a rock and steel (successfully, I might add), participated in a smudge ceremony with a member of the Blackfoot tribe and learned how to make bannock bread. As a hands-on learner, that experience stuck with e much longer than would a visit to your run-of-the-mill museum. Then before you leave you can grab lunch at the Selkirk Grille, which specializes in First Nations-inspired Canadian cuisine. Call ahead to let them know you’re vegan and they’ll be able to whip something tasty up for you.
Brown Bear Woman and Spotted Elk Cultural Center
For one of the most unique First Nations experiences in Calgary, this modest park located on the Tsuut’ina Nation is the place to be. You can learn about how and when a teepee can be painted (it’s complicated), all the ways Indigenous people used every part of a hunted animal (it’s a long and creative list), how pemmican was made and stored (it’s food, look it up), and watch or participate in traditional native dances and singing (they’re spectacular). Run by the current Chief and his family, it’s an amazing opportunity to learn from those immersed in their culture and willing to share.
Little Chief Restaurant
Chef Bill Alexander is proud of the fact that his menu has the largest selection of vegetarian and gluten-free dishes of any conventional restaurant in Calgary. Good news, because it means I had a chance to sample some of his delightful modern twists on traditional First Nations dishes. During my visit, that included strawberry rhubarb cider, grilled asparagus and Brussel sprouts, quinoa-stuffed red peppers, even a chocolate avocado cake (with frosting!). Find the restaurant and First Nations chef at Grey Eagle Resort and Casino.
Painted Warriors
While it may be a bit outside Calgary, the hour and a half drive to Sundrie, Canada is worth the trip for a night or two (or more) at this experiential retreat that offers one of the most rewarding and immersive First Nations experiences in Calgary. They offer all manner of traditional native living programs in addition to the opportunity to sleep in a trapper tent, from snow-shoeing and stargazing in the winter to wildlife identification and archery programs to medicinal plant walks and women’s retreats. No matter what you go for, you’re guaranteed to at least get stories around the fire, traditionally prepared dandelion tea and a wealth of understanding of First Nations culture from the folks that run it. There’s even a raw food prep course offered by a rare First Nations vegan and yoga led by her sister.
Know of any other amazing First Nations experiences in Calgary? Share ’em! Wander on!
Alisha is a freelance outdoor journalist and photographer based in Ogden, UT. She loves backpacking, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking and snowboarding (even though she’s terrible at it). She’s also pretty sure she’s addicted to coffee. alishamcdarris.com