When you are visiting Whistler this winter, make sureyou include a trip to the Squamish Lil’watCultural Centre and learn about the local BC FirstNations cultures. The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre inWhistler provides guests the opportunity to experience thedistinctive living cultures of two local First Nations. Whistlerand the surrounding area is home to the Squamish Aboriginal peopleand the Lil’wat Aboriginal people.
The Tale of Two Nations
The Squamish Nation territory extends from NorthVancouver up through Squamish to Whistler. The Lil’watNation territory starts in Whistler and extends north throughPemberton to Mount Currie. The traditional territories overlap inWhistler which is the perfect location for the Squamish Lil’watCultural Centre.
The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre is located in theUpper Village, just across from the Four Seasons ResortWhistler. The centre is open in the winter from Tuesday toSunday 10am – 5pm. Every Tuesday throughout the winteradmission to the exhibits and galleries will be by donation.
The centre features a museum, modern gallery, exhibits,gift shop, café, theatre, as well as hourly cultural performancesand guided tours with local First Nation Ambassadors.
A new exhibition for this winter is the Lil’wat NationWeaving Wisdom exhibition. This is a collection ofcontemporary and traditional cedar woven pieces. The exhibition isan opportunity for the public to learn more about the interestingand spiritual process of weaving that continues today as a resultof the guidance, inspiration, and dedication of many in theNations. The Lil’wat Nation is highly regarded for basketryand weaving. Works within the exhibit include baby cradles,trays and berry baskets.
Visit the Gift Shop and Cafe
As well as the museum and exhibits, the Squamish Lil’watCultural Centre features a gift shop and cafe. Both thegift shop and cafe can be accessed without paying the admission feeto the centre. This is a great place to find the perfectWhistler gift that will be unique and special. The gift shopis now also available online at shop.slcc.ca. Youcan browse and purchase some amazing First Nation art work fromlocal and regional artists.
The cafe at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural is locatedbetween the Istken Hall and the Giftshop. Try someindigenous inspired cuisine such as Squamish salmon chowder orLil’wat venison chilli and of course you have to try theBannock. The cafe is kid friendly and features a children’sreading, colouring and play zone.
For more information, view the SquamishLil’wat Cultural Centre website.
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