Saskatoon’s rich history was on display at the Western Development Museum (WDM) on Sunday, as the Saskatoon Heritage Festival took over Boomtown.
“You can explore the many aspects of heritage, anywhere from our natural heritage to our civic heritage, cultural heritage, and artistic heritage,” festival organizer Raeanne Van Beek told CTV News.
Thirty-seven different displays filled the WDM, teaching over 2,000 visitors about everything from the railway and cross-stitching, to German Easter egg making, and the history of Saskatoon neighborhoods like 33rd Street, where patrons were asked to submit photos they might have of the neighborhood.
There was also information on exploring Métis genealogy.
“We have the Saskatchewan Genealogical Society and Métis Nation-Saskatchewan, and there’s a presentation about how to research and find out more about your Métis ancestry,” Van Beek said.
Some of the exhibits were hands-on, like the Marr Residence table, where sewing was demonstrated on a machine from the early 1900s, and guests could try it too. The Needle Art Guild group had an embroidery demonstration, and the women’s auxiliary from the WDM showed how a spinning wheel works.
Some exhibitors wore traditional cultural costumes or military uniforms, like those at the Saskatoon Museum of Military Artifacts display.
There were performances throughout the day from various cultural groups, including Flamenco, Ukrainian, Norwegian, German, and Indigenous dance groups, all providing insight into the mosaic of cultures that helped form the city.
This is the 37th year of the event, which sees changes each year, reflecting changes in the community.
“It’s very important because it’s a festival that allows people to learn more about Canadian culture and Saskatoon, so it’s a great opportunity for newcomers to get involved in their community,” said Lisa Facardi with the Open Door Society.
With more newcomers arriving in the city from various parts of the world, the event is an opportunity to learn about local heritage. They are also hoping to encourage newcomers to get involved in their new community by volunteering, which can provide endless possibilities for learning about Saskatoon, according to Facardi.
One of the stories Van Beek remembers fondly is about a newcomer family who saw a performance by an Indigenous Jingle Dance performer and wanted to share it with their family back in their home country.
“They wanted to FaceTime their relatives so they could also take part, and she was more than happy to do that — that has to be one of my favorite memories,” Van Beek said.
The event has something for all ages, with older visitors reminiscing and sharing their knowledge with exhibitors as they visit the displays.
“We get older people who say, ‘I remember when,’ but who also have a lot to share. There’s a lot of community building and sharing of stories here. We also have young families, because the museum is free admission today, so they can come explore the museum too,” she said.
There has been a growing interest in the speaker presentations at the event each year, so they have expanded to have an evening event coming up on Wednesday, February 5, at McNally Robinson.
This year, it’s about discovering the city’s heritage. People can attend in person or access it virtually online. Details are on their website.
