The annual Sasquatch Days are upon us and, once again, promises to be a fun-filled weekend for locals and visitors alike.
This is the fourth annual Sasquatch Days, though it has roots back to 1938 when a two-day event was held which brought together a couple thousand people for war canoe races.
Today, Sasquatch Days includes war canoe races with teams coming from as far afield as Vancouver Island and Washington state. Attendees can watch the races along Harrison Lake’s shorefront while munching on homemade bannock. Salmon caught fresh in our waters will be on the open-flame barbecue both afternoons.
Also on the itinerary are medicine walks, artisan activity tables and opportunities for sharing of cultures.
This is an intercultural event, highlighting the connection between the Sts’ailes people and the village of Harrison Hot Springs.
“It’s a strong cultural event,” explains Erin Goosen, visitor services and events co-ordinator at Tourism Harrison. “It’s believed that the Harrison area is the birthplace of the Sasquatch, and it’s very prominent in Sts’ailes culture.”
Sasquatch Days is a joint partnership between the Village of Harrison Hot Springs and the community of Sts’ailes.
Sts’ailes Chief Harvey Paul says they are glad to welcome guests to their traditional territory for this special event.
“It is a wonderful thing to see the sharing of culture and traditions this way,” says Chief Paul. “We are proud to showcase the rich heritage and customs of our people at Sasquatch Days.”
The kickoff begins Saturday morning at 9:30 a.m. with a short procession to the Harrison Lake Plaza. There will be a welcoming ceremony at 10 a.m. by representatives of Sts’ailes and Harrison.
Goosen estimates 200 to 300 participants come out for the canoe races each year, with another 2,000 to 3,000 spectators.
Sasquatch Days takes place this Saturday from 9:30 to 5 p.m. and Sunday, 9:30 to 3 p.m. For more information, see www.tourismharrison.com
