The City of Martensville wrapped up their month-long Culture Days programming on Sunday, October 24th by hosting a two-hour presentation where those in attendance could learn about the rich history of our land from interpreters from Wanuskewin Heritage Park.
The event, which ran from 2pm to 4pm at the Martensville Athletic Pavilion included a lesson on traditional hoop-dancing by Lawrence Roy Jr., who has been dancing for most of his life. Those participating also learned how to make some of the animals out of the hoops, and were taught what each animal represented and its significance to the world. Those in attendance also had a chance to take in a tipi making craft, traditional games and more. The day was all about learning more about Saskatchewan’s history.
The City of Martensville began offering Culture Days programming approximately six years ago; however, Culture Days has been a national celebration for many years. This year, programming included a variety of events, which included Salsa dancing, a Pierogi making workshop, wood/soap carving and to wrap things up, the Wanuskewin event. All of the programming was free to the public.
For Jamie McCulloch, City of Martensville Recreation Program Coordinator, Culture Days is an important way to celebrate arts and culture. “I think culture days is a great month of festivities that everyone should take part in. It is Canada wide, and all the events are free. The more people know about other cultures, teachings and heritages, the more likely we will be able to understand and accept others. Everyone has a culture, and it should be celebrated,” McCulloch said.
Overall, McCulloch stated that this year was a success, and there are already ideas in motion for next years Culture Days.
