Whisters Campground stage hosts free summer programming in Jasper National Park/Parks Canada, Luuk Wijk
Indigenous traditions, stories and knowledge have shaped the history of what is now known as Jasper National Park. To honor the contributions of these First Nations and to celebrate their influence on the region since time immemorial, Parks Canada has invited Indigenous partners to share the stage at Whistlers and Wabasso campgrounds this summer.
On selected evenings in July and August, visitors and community members will hear directly from Indigenous partners through meaningful and engaging interpretive programming.
These presentations will cover a range of topics that will offer insights into the history, stories and traditions of local First Nations. Programs will include the early fur trade in the Athabasca Valley, settlement in the area, and a session that will teach the traditional Red River Jig. There is no better way to learn about the human history of the park than from the First Nations people who helped to shape it.
Programs are free and include:
July 6 and Aug. 17 at 7:30 p.m.: "The People Who Shaped the History of the Athabasca Valley" at Whistlers Campground Theatre. Join Elder Ken Groat, descendant of the Moberly family, as he shares stories and histories of the people who lived in this iconic valley from the 1790s to modern times.
July 13 and Aug. 1 at 7:30 p.m.: "From Our Own Voice: The Oral History of the As’in’i wachi Neyiyuk" at Whistlers Campground Theatre. Join Shelley Calliou of Kelly Lake Cree Nation as she presents the oral history of the As’in’i wachi Neyiyuk and their connections to Jasper House.
July 20 and Aug. 24 at 7:30 p.m.: "The Story of the Rocky Mountain Cree" at Whistlers Campground Theatre. Join Frank Roan of the Mountain Cree as he uses stories and song to chronicle the history of the Rocky Mountain Cree in Jasper through trade, barter and kinship.
Aug. 3 at 7:30 p.m.: "Métis Jigging Workshop" at Wabasso Campground Campfire Circle. Métis artist Lisa Shepherd will teach a traditional jig step, the Red River Jig and some community dances. Be ready for an uplifting and joyful experience as you engage in the original social networking.
The "Sharing the Stage" program complements Jasper’s full suite of regular summer interpretive programs, including theater shows, family presentations, interpreters on trails and more. Programs are offered Wednesday through Monday until Sept. 1.
