Photo courtesy Kristy Davison
WHAT ARE TRADITIONAL GAMES?
Indigenous games have been part of life on Turtle Island for thousands of years. They are far more than athletic events. They are expressions of culture, identity, and community passed down through generations. Each game carries teachings about endurance, respect, teamwork, and the deep bonds between people. They are played at gatherings, used to train for the demands of daily life, and shared as a living form of cultural knowledge.
Events like the Northern Alberta Traditional Games Festival exist to keep these traditions alive and accessible, giving youth the opportunity to connect with their heritage through play, and bringing communities together in celebration of who they are and where they come from.
Canmore, Oct 1
Photo courtesy Cody Shimizu and Kristy Davison
The inaugural Rheyam Skadabi Treaty 7 Festival brought sunshine, laughter, and energy to Canmore on October 1, as youth and teachers from Lawrence Grassi Middle School and Mini Thni Community School came together for a fun-filled day of traditional games.
From high kick and lacrosse to double ball and seal pull, students had a great time exploring traditional games, cheering each other on, and taking on new challenges together.
A heartfelt thank you to Canadian Tire Jumpstart, Landmark Cinemas, Inter Pipeline, and all the volunteers who made this special day possible.
Thank you for playing with us!
EDMONTON, May 19
Photo courtesy Kristy Davison
On May 19th, Edmonton came alive with laughter, energy, and the joy of play. The Northern Alberta Traditional Games Festival brought youth, families, and community together for an afternoon of celebration. A gathering that felt both exciting and deeply meaningful.
Youth showed up ready to play and ready to connect. Watching them step into these traditions, cheer each other on, and celebrate together was a reminder of exactly why this day matters.
A heartfelt thank you to our sponsors and partners whose support make these days possible, like Alberta Blue Cross who sponsored our Edmonton event on May 19th, and G4 Health for their help with our Canmore Traditional Games Festival.
And thanks to every volunteer who showed up and gave their time so generously, including our friends from Diplomat Consulting. This Traditional Games Festival day belongs to all of you.