Whistler is represented through its festive atmosphere and abundance of outdoor adventures, but we also honour the human connection to the land that dates back thousands of years. Whistler, originally known as Cwítima (Lil’wat) and Sk̲wik̲w (Squamish), is in the shared, unceded territory of the Lil’wat People and the Squamish People. Whistler’s July 1st Celebrations will be following COVID-19 protocols, with outdoor activities throughout the community.
We along with our community recognise that this year, more than ever, it is important for Canadians to show empathy, understanding & openness to each other. It’s also an opportunity for us to learn from our past & walk the shared path of reconciliation.
The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre will be free to the public on Canada Day, with guests walking through 215 orange hearts between the Maury Young Arts Centre and the cultural centre.
“These hearts are installed to represent the 215 children who lost their lives at a Kamloops residential school and never returned home to their families,” The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre stated. “It is hoped that this path of hearts provides an invitation to everyone to deepen their understanding about local First Nations peoples so that our future in Canada can be one of truth, reconciliation, love and understanding.”
With the loosening of restrictions on pubs and restaurants and the opening of dance-free nightclubs, there are many private events being planned for Canada Day. Furthermore our local lakes are also expected to be enjoyed by the masses, with up to 5,000 people now able to gather for outdoor events, and a forecast of 30 degrees throughout the weekend.
Community Events :
- Free admission to The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre
- Yoga in the Plaza at Whistler Olympic Plaza from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.
- Spo7ez Performance Team Drum Circle at Whistler Olympic Plaza at 10:45 a.m.
- Whistler’s Moving Meadows art showcase at Whistler Olympic Plaza from noon to 4 p.m.
- Scavenger Hunt pick up at Whistler Olympic Plaza from noon to 4 p.m.
- Live painting local artists Dave “Pepe” Petko, Taka Sudo and Ben Poechman at Whistler Olympic Plaza from noon to 4 p.m.
- Paintillio large paint-by-numbers mural at Town Plaza Gazebo from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Street entertainment including Treeline Aerialists and moving characters from noon to 4 p.m.
For all details on the Resort Municipality of Whistler has planned for this weekend please visit whistler.ca/CanadaDay.
From our team to you, we wish you a safe and happy July 1.
Our best always,
