Explore Vancouver's Indigenous Roots
Credit: Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art
Vancouver and the Lower Mainland prides itself on its deep Indigenous history, as there is much to experience when it comes to Indigenous tourism in the area. Celebrate British Columbia's Indigenous roots by immersing yourself in one or all of these activities:
Fairmont Waterfront & Talaysay Tours
Take a cultural and culinary adventure with the Fairmont Waterfront in partnership with Talaysay Tours. Explore the beauty of Vancouver’s natural landscape and learn about Aboriginal culture firsthand with these unique and intimate eco-tourism experiences. We recommend the Talking Trees tour, a walking tour through the world-renowned old growth forest of Stanley Park that is easily enjoyed by all ages and fitness levels. Your local First Nations guide will share ancient and contemporary stories, legends, ways of life. Hear the many stories of the region as well as with cultural and scientific knowledge of the Northwest coast trees and plants. Every natural element is deemed sacred and has its own special story, having a purpose which supported the local Indigenous societies for generations. This experience can be booked with our Concierge or online at talaysay.com. To expand your experience, book the Talking Trees package which also includes one night in the hotel paired with the three-course Talking Trees menu in ARC for a taste of Indigenous-inspired West Coast flavour.
Availability: Between Saturday, September 01, 2018 and Friday, May 31, 2019
Rates: Package rates start from $514 CAD per night, based on double occupancy in a Fairmont Room. 1 night non-refundable deposit due at time of booking.
Please Note: Talking Trees tour and 3 course dinner in ARC available for all adults on the reservation; an additional fee will apply for children. Guests will be contacted to confirm date and time of Talaysay Tour; tours run September to June, Wednesdays through Sundays at 10am and 2pm; July and August, tours run daily at 10am, 12pm, and 2pm. Guests will be contacted to book a time for the 3 course dinner; dinner inclusion for one night only.
The Museum of Anthropology features one of the world’s finest displays of Northwest Coast First Nations art and houses the world’s largest collection of Haida artist, Bill Reid’s works. In addition, the Museum of Anthropology has two current exhibitions that feature Indigenous art:
Shake up: Preserving what we value
On December 2, 2018 – Fall 2019
This exhibition explores the convergence of earthquake science and technology with rich Indigenous knowledge and oral history of the living cultures represented in MOA’s Northwest Coast Collection.
For more information, click here
In a Different Light: Reflecting on Northwest Coast Art
On June 22, 2017 – Summer 2020
In a Different Light presents more than 110 historical Indigenous artworks and marks the return of many important works to British Columbia. These objects are amazing artistic achievements, yet they also transcend the idea of ‘art’ or ‘artifact’.
For more information, click here
Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre
The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre is hosting the First Nations Winter Feast and Performance every Thursday and Sunday at 5:45pm from now until April 18, 2019. This feast features an Indigenous inspired menu that is accompanied by Indigenous World Winery wines and local craft beer. The performances can be enjoyed throughout dinner, featuring the SLCC’s Cultural Ambassadors and the Wells family from the Lil’wat Nation.
For more information like menu items and feast rates, please visit their website or call 604.967.1281
March Availability:
Thursday, March 7
Sunday, March 10
Thursday, March 14
Sunday, March 17
Thursday, March 21
Sunday, March 24
Thursday, March 28
Sunday, March 31
Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art
Body Language
Reawakening Cultural Tattooing of the Northwest
By popular demand, the Bill Reid Gallery is pleased to extend this exhibition until March 17, 2019
Body Language is the first exhibition to fully explore the rich history and artistry of Indigenous tattooing, piercing and personal adornment on the Northwest Coast.
Closing Event | Haida Dance Group
Sunday, March 17 | 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Free with Gallery Admission of Membership
Far South Songbirds will be performing on the final day of Body Language on March 17.
Counternarratives
Watercolour paintings by Archibald Fairbairn
February 13 - June 2, 2019
The sublime watercolour paintings of Archibald Fairbairn (1888 - 1979) document the beauty of totem poles and communities during the early 20th century. This exhibition juxtaposes an idealistic painter's postcolonial gaze with critical discourse from contemporary Indigenous voices.