Dec 13, 2023

Wanuskewin Heritage Parks Wins National Tourism Award

An awards ceremony held at the Westin Hotel in Ottawa
Ontario, Wanuskewin was once again selected as the top Indigenous
Tourism Destination in the country. This recognition is one of the
categories celebrated at the Tourism Industry Association of Canada
annual awards night. This is the third time Wanuskewin has won the
award also having won in 2016, and in 2019.

The top Indigenous Tourism Destination category is selected by the
Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, who holds a membership of
over 1900 unique business across the country. The recognition is based
on several factors including;
– Cultural Sustainability
– Economic Impact
– Quality of Tourism Experiences

“We are deeply honoured to have been selected for this award. I know
about many of the incredible Indigenous Tourism experiences our
province has to offer, let alone the entire country, and it truly humbles
us to be selected amongst our peers.” says Darlene Brander CEO of
Wanuskewin Heritage Park.

Brander feels strongly that this recognition, is a victory of all. “Our park
has been a part of the Saskatchewan story for over 31 years. We hope
that this award is celebrated by the entire province, because
Wanuskewin belongs to you! This beautiful place is for all peoples to
come and share in appreciation and celebration of Northern Plains
Indigenous cultures, as it has been for over 6400 years. What an
exciting opportunity for us to celebrate that prairie culture on a
national stage!”

Wanuskewin was also selected as a finalist in the category of the
Culinary Event of the Year, although they did not win. The nomination
was for the Han Wi Moon Dinner, which is an annual series of dinners,
held in August and facilitated by renowned Indigenous Chef Jenni
Lessard. These dinners feature a three course meal foraged from the
land and served on an ancient bison jump. Guests are then treated to
stories and a theatrical performance by local artists immersed in a
stunning prairie setting nestled on the banks of the South
Saskatchewan River.

Wanuskewin is a National Heritage Site that celebrates Northern Plains
Indigenous Cultures. The park is located 5 minutes from Saskatoon,
featuring over 7km of hiking trails, exhibit halls, and conference and
event space along with a restaurant, art galleries and Gift Shop. The
park is currently on the tentative list for UNESCO World Heritage Status
and when successful, will become the first UNESCO site in
Saskatchewan’s history.