For fans of buffalo, the Métis Crossing cultural centre, which offers shows, dining and shopping, has been located in an old cattle pen on historic Fort Spiritus, north of Edmonton, for the past five years. But beginning in spring 2019, the Métis Crossing will transform into a year-round destination for aboriginal culture.
An upgraded, expanded and newly-built Métis Crossing features the latest fitness studio and dance studio that will host classes in spoken English, French and Cree along with western dance from the People’s Dance group and the local White Water Troupes, in addition to native paintings, sculptures and baskets. The Métis Crossing year-round nature also includes a series of learning classes from local indigenous artisans to housewares and handmade clothing.
Métis Crossing will also house the studios of the Alberta Institute of Sport, which will help promote inclusivity and Indigenous culture in sporting programs that draw students from across Alberta and also across the country. The institute will help design education and development programs and conduct audits for Title IX, the law that ensures gender equity in athletics. Métis Crossing employees will also continue to host taekwondo, fencing and archery camps for local youth.
The Métis Crossing is the fourth year of the Fort Spiritus Yartoculture Music Festival. The festival, started in 2014, features traditional Native musicians, folk singers and artists, from people like DJ Khaled and Gaelic music group Fleet Foxes to major acts like Vampire Weekend and Taylor Swift.
Métis Crossing is in Fort Spiritus, Alberta: 0-855-286-9736, www.mtdiscrossing.com