(Surrey BC) – New this year, the Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair is inviting guests to the Aboriginal Gathering Place, a welcoming and inclusive interactive pavilion featuring culturally relevant and historical displays representing several Aboriginal Groups. Along with live entertainment through the May long weekend (May 17-20), including traditional drumming, dance and colourful dress, the Aboriginal Gathering place will also play host to official opening and closing ceremonies, during which local Chiefs will bless the Shannon Hall Building and the Fair in traditional ceremonial fashion.
A special opening ceremony will be held Friday, May 17 at 4 pm at Shannon Hall including traditional blessings performed by Chief of the Semiahmoo First Nation, Willard Cook.
Featuring interactive exhibits from the BC Metis Federation, Semiahmoo First Nation and Kwikwetlem First Nation, the Aboriginal Gathering Place will bring together visitors of all backgrounds and Native cultural ambassadors in a welcoming space of learning and traditional festivities. Guests will have the opportunity to explore exceptional pieces that represent Aboriginal history and culture, including 2010 Olympic TeePee, Don Welsh’s Semiahmoo First Nation fishing village diorama, and two stunning hand-carved cedar canoes from the Kwikwetlem First Nation.
Hands-on activities, including soap carving with Mark Gauthier, learning to powwow with Arnie Leon, and a variety of performances, will serve to celebrate and honour the cultural diversity of Canada’s Aboriginal population, the enormous momentum in our national interest in learning and taking action regarding Truth and Reconciliation, and the traditional ways of Aboriginal Culture.
Hours: Friday May 17 ~ 4 pm – 9 pm
Saturday May 18 ~ 10 am – 9 pm
Sunday May 19 ~ 10 am – 9 pm
Monday May 20 ~ 10 am – 4 pm
Event: 2013 Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair
Dates: May 17 – 20, 2013
Location: Cloverdale Fair grounds
Tickets: Grounds Admission 12.00
Rodeo Performances: 20.00
Kids 12 & Under: Free Rodeo Ground Admission
(Must be accompanied by Adult)
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