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Batoche Fall Festival

Métis Nation—Saskatchewan announces Batoche Métis Fall Festival

Aug 27, 2021 | 6:40 PM

A celebration of Métis culture is set to headline community events slated to take place throughout the autumn season.

Métis Nation—Saskatchewan (MN-S) announced Batoche Métis Fall Festival will take place from Sept. 2-5. Throughout the weekend, people will have the opportunity to come together and engage in traditional Métis activities and other cultural customs.

The four-day affair is presented to all people free of charge. Camping sites and electricity is also complementary during the festival. Event organizers stated the decision to provide these amenities at no cost was made to encourage people to participate in the cultural celebration without the stress of financial concerns.

According to MN-S Culture and Heritage Minister Sherry McLennan, the event serves as a celebration of life while honouring the lives lost during the pandemic.

“Being locked up for so long, not being able to be with people and kids not being able to get together takes a lot on the heart, head and mind,” she said.

“This is something that is going to give us our freedom again. We’re able to heal… it’s still scary at times, but we are taking precautions to keep our people safe.”

A COVID-19 vaccination clinic will be set up at the festival, and rapid testing will be available. Crews will be taking thermal scans at the admission gates, free masks will be accessible to those who want them and sanitizing stations will be set up throughout the festival grounds.

Many activities, events and attractions are scheduled throughout the affair, including musical performances from Ryan Keplin, Dean Smith and the Dirt Road Mechanics.

Cultural food and goods such as bannock, moose meat and cultural wares will be available for purchase through various vendors in the festival’s cultural corner.

MN-S President Glen McCallum stated this celebration is open to all people, whether they’re Métis, First Nations or anyone who enjoys festivals. He reinforced the event is about coming together as a community after suffering from the devastating outcome of the pandemic.

“This is a gathering for enjoyment, but it is also about the mental well-being of our citizens,” he said. “Our citizens, elders and veterans have paid a particularly dear price. Let’s be safe, but let’s enjoy.”

Opening ceremonies are slated to begin on Friday, August 3.

elliott.knopp@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @ElliottKnopp

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