Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre

The Coast Salish Squamish people and the Interior Salish Lil'wat people come together with RBC funding and the Salish Weaving Program.

June 2008 will be an exciting time up in Whistler, as The Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre opens its doors. The name means "where rivers, mountains and people meet" and brings together the Coast Salish Squamish people and the Interior Salish Lil'wat people to showcase their cultural traditions.

Programs are slated to include art, guided and self-guided tours, performances and cultural demonstrations. The centre also promises to have a museum, 80 seat theatre and gift gallery with authentic Squamish and Lil'wat art.

The most interesting part is the weaving program that will be ongoing there. Master weavers will be handing down their knowledge of historical blankets, baskets and other contemporary and traditional products.

The site will be on 1.76 hectares (4.35 acres) of land in Whistler, BC. The building is planned to evoke a Squamish longhouse and earthen pit (Lil'wat Istken) as hosts welcome visitors inside.

The atmosphere seems like it'll be very unique and a huge addition to the alpine resort. Find out more about the progress by visiting The Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre website.