FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Shayla Stonechild, Spo7ez Summer Solstice Feast and Dancers of Damelahamid to feature during National Indigenous History Month at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre in Whistler.
May 26, 2026 – Whistler, BC (Skwxwú7mesh and Líl̓wat7úl shared Territory). National Indigenous History Month in June marks a special time to visit the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (SLCC) in Whistler as it offers immersive programming, and a community celebration on Sunday, June 21 for National Indigenous Peoples Day.
The SLCC is proud to host Shayla Stonechild in signature experiences as part of Nourish Whistler Wellness Series – Whistler’s month-long celebration of well-being. Rooted Flow | Shayla Stonechild Yoga is a grounding yoga experience rooted in strength, story, and self-connection in the Istken Hall on Friday, June 19, 7 pm and Saturday, June 20, 10:30 am. Shayla weaves Indigenous teachings with traditional yoga practices, creating a space where each breath and posture becomes an act of reconnection. Her work centers on healing and reclamation, encouraging Indigenous youth and women, and all who attend, to return to their bodies in a way that honours lineage, resilience, and lived experience. Tickets for Rooted Flow | Shayla Stonechild Yoga are $35 and are booked through Nourish Whistler. While at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, Shayla Stonechild will connect with Nation Members in a special event Grounded in Identity.
Guests will experience an unforgettable evening of Indigenous cuisine at the Spo7ez Summer Solstice Feast on Saturday, June 20, 6:30 pm. Beginning with a cultural welcome experience, setting the tone for a meaningful and immersive gathering. Rooted in the traditions of hunter-gatherer Nations, the SLCC’s in-house catering celebrates the land’s seasonal abundance each dish reflects a deep respect for the land, guided by values of balance, gratitude, and sustainability—creating a dining experience that is both authentic and memorable and a warm and welcoming celebration of culture, food, and connection. The seasonal menu features Venison Loin with Huckleberry Relish, Cedar Plank Salmon, and seasonal vegetables from Lil’wat Nation’s farm Qwal̓ímak Nlep̓cálten. Tickets for the Spo7ez Summer Solstice Feast are $160 booked through Nourish Whistler and SLCC Members enjoy 10% savings and Nation Members enjoy 15% savings. Tickets to the Feast directly support the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre including the Indigenous Youth Ambassador Program and it’s daily operations as an Indigenous non-profit organization.
On Sunday, June 21, the SLCC hosts a vibrant National Indigenous Peoples Day celebration featuring immersive cultural programming including the Dancers of Damelahamid, Comedian Keith “Bubbas” Nahanee, Storytelling in the Istken Pithouse, Kids and Family Crafts, Spo7ez Cultural Sharing, Spo7ez Artist Market and Thunderbird Grill. Kids and Youth (18 years and under) enjoy Free Admission on Sunday, June 21 with generous support provided by the Government of Canada, the Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) and the Fairmont Chateau Whistler.
Curator Mixalhítsa7 Alison Pascal shares “We’re excited to host a celebration of Indigenous People by showcasing Dancers, Comedians and Artisans. Come join us and learn about our culture and history through art.”
Offering daily guided cultural tours, the SLCC offers meaningful ways for visitors to engage with Indigenous knowledge and living culture. Guests can experience revitalized storyboards throughout the Great Hall and What We Treasure collection in Gallery One, along with the feature summer exhibit Wisdom of the Animal People opening Saturday June 13 in partnership with the Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW). Daily tours include a welcome song, short film and storytelling in the signature What We Treasure Tour at the top of every hour* and the Interpretive Forest Walk at 3pm through the Salish Forest. The Spo7ez Artist Market showcases Squamish and Lil’wat Artisans on the first Sunday of every month beginning Sunday June 7, then July 5, August 2 and September 6, along with Sunday June 21.
With the SLCC open Tuesday – Sunday throughout the summer season, guests can also savour Indigenous-inspired cuisine at the SLCC’s Thunderbird Café, that reflects the land and its living cultures. Guests can also explore the Gallery and Gift Shop, featuring original artwork, carvings, and jewellery, handcrafted by First Nations artists from across the region along with authentic Indigenous home décor, apparel and books for learning.
The SLCC is open Tuesday – Sunday (Closed Monday) 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Please note the SLCC may occasionally close early for private events—visit slcc.ca/visit for the most up-to-date hours.
For full program details and a schedule of National Indigenous History Month events, please visit SLCC.ca/nihm.
* The hourly What We Treasure Tour is replaced by the Interpretive Forest Walk at 3pm
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