First Nations

To battle and deter sickness, ceremonialists would participate in a Thirst or Sundance. This event has foundations in sacrifice and is held in a traditional lodge with its execution varying from Nation to Nation.

Within the Edmonton River Valley, in present day and historically, one can see the remnants of sweatlodges in ceremonial spaces. Constructed to allow participants to reconnect with Mother Earth and cleanse one's body, these ceremonies remain part of everyday life for First Nations people.

When one pictures the early West and First Nations people, one cannot help but imagine a traditional Tipi. This multi-use structure was a perfect balance of ease of construction and rigidity to withstand prairie life.