First Nations have lived in the Thompson Okanagan region for thousands of years. Ranging from the desert sands of Osoyoos to the fertile lands of the Okanagan Valley, the three First Nations of the region each have their own rich cultures and traditions.
The rich heritage of the Thompson Okanagan can also be seen through the early settlements of the area. Ranching and mining were two of the early industries, and today restored ranches and gold-rush era roadhouses can still be seen.
Aboriginal and cultural experiences in the Okanagan include the largest powwow in Western Canada, overnight stays in a kekuli (underground pit house), interpretive centres and displays, historic villages and traditional story telling.
The Okanagan First Nations
The traditional Secwepmenc, also known as the Shuswap, were a semi-nomadic people who passed down their traditions orally to each generation. They were known for their respect for nature and their use of the natural environment for food and medicine.
The Nlaka’pamux are known for expressing their culture, the landscape of their homeland, and their spiritual beliefs through art – most notably pictographs (drawings) and petroglyphs (carvings), which can be seen on rock walls; and through personal expression such as face painting, clothing and jewellery.
The Okanagan First Nations looked to find harmony in the land, and strive to pass on their knowledge of Okanagan language, history and culture through an interpretive centre in the southern Okanagan.
Aboriginal Cultural Centres
The Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre in Osoyoos portrays history and culture through interactive displays, tours and programs. The site is also home to North America’s first aboriginal-owned vineyard and winery.
Before gold miners flocked to the area, First Nations were mining the hills for flint and ochre. The Snaza’ist Discovery Centre in Hedley explores the history of the Similkameen people and offers tours of the Mascot Gold Mine, which lies on the edge of a cliff 1,000 metres above the valley floor.
At the Secwepemc Museum and Heritage Park near Kamloops view the archaeological remains of a 2,000 year-old winter village and walk the ethnobotanical gardens to learn why plants were a central part of Secwepemc culture.
BC’s Largest Aboriginal Festival
Each year Kamloops hosts the Kamloopa Powwow, a three-day festival celebrating First Nations culture and heritage through singing, dancing and storytelling.
This competition event is the largest powwow in British Columbia, and features tribes from across Western Canada and the United States. The event also draws many First Nations artisans, and visitors can buy authentic handicrafts directly from the artists.
Historic Ranches and Settlements
The O’Keefe Ranch was one of the largest cattle ranches in BC. Visitors can take tours and view some of the oldest buildings in the Vernon area.
At the Historic Hat Creek Ranch in Cache Creek you can experience 1860’s roadhouse life, visit a reconstructed Shuswap village, or sleep in an authentic Secwepemc Kekuli (pit house).
Practical Points
Some locations are open seasonally or by appointment only; always check operating hours in advance.
Artifacts and regalia have historical and cultural significance. Do not touch items unless a knowledgeable guide or local has given you permission to do so.
If possible, also ask permission to take photos - some artifacts such as totem poles have interesting stories, and in asking for permission visitors learn more about the local history.