After three days, the Woodland Cree Gathering wraps up this afternoon.
The annual event is an informal gathering for members of the Montreal Lake, Peter Ballantyne and Lac La Ronge Indian bands.
Elmer Ballantyne, who handles public relations for the gathering, says this year’s event is being held on the southern side of the Prince Albert National Park for a significant reason.
“It is in Waskesiu, based out of Waskesiu, in regards to the point we are trying to make is this is traditional territory, with Montreal Lake Cree Nation but more so Little Red River reserve 106b which is part of Montreal Lake,” he says.
He adds the whole idea of the gathering is to keep things informal and provide an opportunity to renew friendships.
The event attracts about 500 people per day and one of the key themes is respect for the land.
This year’s host is the nearby Little Red River reserve.
Ballantyne says the gatherings have been going on for about the last 12 years.