Back to Batoche gears up for cultural festivities in Saskatchewan

One of Saskatchewan’s top heritage celebrations, Back to Batoche Days, is about to open the gates.

Thousands of visitors from across North America are expected to converge at the continent’s largest commemoration of Métis culture, traditions and heritage from July 14 to 17.

READ MORE: Rainy weather forces the Craven Country Jamboree to close its gates on Tuesday

This year, the provincial government has provided $20,000 to support the festival.

“Our government is pleased to be one of the many sponsors of this special community celebration,” said Government Relations Minister Jim Reiter.

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“Batoche has been a gathering place for Métis people for nearly 145 years and this festival is an ongoing testament to their proud spirit.”

The festival includes square dancing, fiddling competitions, bannock baking, children’s activities as well as a ceremony at the local Métis veteran monument.

READ MORE: A Taste of Saskatchewan sees rainy start in Saskatoon’s Kiwanis Memorial Park

Back to Batoche is also where the Métis memorialize and pay homage to national heroes, such as Louis Riel.

WATCH: The Louis Riel statue

The fun takes place about an hour’s drive north of Saskatoon at the Batoche Métis Cultural Grounds.