FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre Announces Lower-Level Renovations and Temporary Café and Gift Shop Locations
WHISTLER, B.C. — October 21, 2026 — The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (SLCC) will begin renovations to its lower level in November, refreshing the spaces of the Thunderbird Café and Gift Shop. During November and December, the SLCC’s regular operating schedule will change, with the Centre closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. The museum’s two upper floors will continue to welcome visitors for regular exhibits, experiences, and guided tours during scheduled opening hours, with a temporary closure of the entire SLCC, including the Museum, Café, and Gift Shop, from November 2–5 to accommodate the transition.
From November 6, visitors can access the Thunderbird Café and Gift Shop at temporary pop-up locations onsite. The Thunderbird Café will operate from the Qwalimak food truck on the Mezzanine Patio, serving familiar Thunderbird Café favourites, with seating available in the Longhouse. The Gift Shop will temporarily relocate to the Longhouse, offering a distinctive selection of gifts and keepsakes. The online Gift Shop will remain open throughout the renovation period, with its regular collection available for purchase and shipping.
“We are excited to reimagine and enhance our lower level operations – the Thunderbird Café and Gift Shop. Guests can look forward to refreshed and beautiful spaces, with a connection to the land, the people and a steadfast commitment to authentic cultural representation. Our team will continue to warmly welcome guests throughout the renovation period in the Great Hall, Upper Galleries, Mezzanine and Longhouse. Take advantage of savings, while experiencing the same enriching stories, familiar café cuisine and curated shopping at Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre,” said Liza Walli, Executive Director.
Upcoming Special Hours of Operation
- Sunday, November 1: Museum open 10 am–5 pm; Thunderbird Café and Gift Shop closed for renovations.
- Monday, November 2–Thursday, November 5: Entire SLCC closed, including Museum, Thunderbird Café, and Gift Shop.
- Wednesday, November 11: Entire SLCC closed for Remembrance Day.
- Friday, November 6–Thursday, December 31: Open Wednesday–Sunday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Additional holiday hours and closures may apply. Please visit slcc.ca/visit for the latest operating hours.
Renovation Savings
From November 6 through December 16, visitors can enjoy special renovation pricing and savings:
- Museum admission: Adults and Seniors $20; Children and Youth (18 and under) $10.
- Gift Shop and Thunderbird Café: 15% savings* with purchase of Museum admission (*excluding books, pantry goods, and consignment art).
- New memberships: 10% savings on all NEW memberships during the November Membership Drive.
Visitors are encouraged to check slcc.ca/visit for the latest hours and visitor information.
The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (SLCC) in Whistler is grateful for the support of the Province of British Columbia, the Government of Canada and the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA).
Learn more: slcc.ca/visit
Huy Chexw (thank you) Wa Chexw Yuu (Take care) – Squamish Language
Kukw`stumc`kalap (Thank-you all) – Lil’wat Language
MEDIA CONTACT
Nadija Veach, Marketing Manager, Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre
nadija.veach@slcc.ca | M: 604.964.0990 | D: 604.964.0995
About Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (SLCC)
Located in Whistler, B.C., the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (SLCC) was founded through a unique partnership between the Squamish Nation and Lil’wat Nation to celebrate and share the distinct cultures and living traditions of both Nations. Indigenous-owned and operated as a non-profit cultural centre, the SLCC fosters understanding and respect while supporting cultural revitalization, training, and meaningful employment for members of both Nations. Visitors can experience Sḵwx̱wú7mesh and Líl̓wat7úl cultures through the Centre’s First Nations Museum, Gallery & Gift Shop, and Thunderbird Café, while the Centre also transforms into a distinctive events venue. The SLCC operates as a registered charity under the legal name The Spo7ez Cultural Centre and Community Society.