Fernie & Elk Valley Culture Guide Fernie Cultural Guide FALL 2018 | Page 35

the top of the cone when the skins are
spread over the poles, allowing smoke
from the central fire to escape. These
dwellings are very strong and dry, cool
in the summer and warm in the winter.
They are sometimes misidentified as
wigwams, which are dome-shaped
shelters typically constructed of
tree bark.
Tipis were designed to be easily erected,
dismantled and transported by the
nomadic plains people. Today they
are mostly used for ceremonial and
exhibition purposes. Learn more about
the tipi, hear the Ktunaxa Creation
Story and participate in traditional
Ktunaxa crafts and activities at the
Fernie Chautauqua - Heritage on the
Lawn on Saturday, September 15th.
SPEAKING EARTH
The Ktunaxa Nation offers an exclusive
First Nations experience in a resort
setting in the Canadian
Rocky Mountains.
Speaking Earth Haqaŧpaŧni nam
(Hackalth-palth-knee-nam) is a series
of extraordinary activities: Guests will
experience traditional knowledge and
culture interpreted by nation members
in a hands-on environment. They will
hear stories, scrape hides, learn to bead,
and play traditional games. At night,
guests may also sleep in traditional tipis.
Speaking Earth is offered exclusively
through the Ktunaxa Nation-owned
St. Eugene Golf Resort & Casino.
Visit SpeakingEarth.ca for more details.
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