Spend a day discovering Canada’s First Nations traditions. Here are six great day trip ideas to incorporate into a day trip or overnight adventure in and around Southern Ontario.
- 1
Engage and learn at Woodland Cultural Centre
Woodland Cultural Centre, within the Brantford and Six Nations communities, is a fascinating place to discover the history, language, intellect and cultural heritage of the Anishinaabe and Onkwehon:we people.
- 2
Explore Reconstructed 15th Century Longhouses
At Crawford Lake Conservation Area in Halton, explore the Iroquoian village and learn about local First Nations history. You’ll have the unique opportunity to explore two 15th-century reconstructed longhouses and enjoy very cool immersive programming. Be sure to take in the Fire Over Water Exhibit by Wyandot artist and Faith Keeper Catherine Tàmmaro.
- 3
Paddle a Voyageur canoe down the Grand
The Grand River is home to centuries worth of First Nations history. Grand Experiences’ 4-hour guided paddle takes you down the Grand River in a 12-person Voyageur canoe with an expert guide who shares stories and legends along the way.
- 4
Feel the heartbeat of the drum
The Pow Wow is one way First Nations people share their unique customs and cultural identity through the heartbeat of the drum, song and dance. Each July, the Grand River Champion of Champions Pow Wow at the Six Nations of the Grand River showcases pride in music, dance, arts and crafts.
- 5
Get a taste of First Nations foods
This summer, Nish Dish Pop-Up Restaurant is serving up traditional, local Indigenous cuisine at Crawford Lake Conservation Area on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. From bison sausage to wild rice and strawberry juice, guests will be able to enjoy First Nations foods that respect the land and nourish the body.
- 6
Make a beautiful basket
This summer, Chiefswood Park is offering instructional workshops to teach guests how to make traditional Children’s Longhouse and Small Pack Baskets, Large Pack Baskets and Corn Wash Baskets.
Looking for even more ways to discover First Nations traditions in southern Ontario this summer? Visit our Pick Pack Go page to create a getaway built around First Nations attractions and events.
Know Before You Go
We’re thrilled that Ontario is reopening and can’t wait to welcome you to Hamilton Halton Brant. As a few of our region’s tourism partners may take some additional time to return to their pre-pandemic operating capacities and protocols, feel free to reach out to the places you plan on visiting in advance to confirm that they’re ready to serve you in the way you’re expecting.
