A longtime event is set to return in person this summer.
Back to Batoche Days will be running from July 21 to the 24 at the Batoche National Historic Site. This year’s event will mark its 50th anniversary and also the first time it has been held in person since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Brent Digness, Minister of Tourism and Economic Development for the Métis Nation-Saskatchewan (MN-S), which organizes the event, said people he’s been talking with in Eastern Region Two, who he represents, are excited about the event’s return.
“It’s like little kids when they get out of school for summer holidays, their all just wanting to break loose and enjoy it and that’s the feeling I got from my citizens who I represent in the region,” he said.
People who attend Back to Batoche this year will be able to take part in a range of activities, including a slow pitch tournament, bison harvest demonstration and chuck wagon races to name a few. Digness said they will also be taking time to remember those who have been lost during the pandemic.
“We lost loved ones and were unable to celebrate their life or celebrate their loss of life and this year for that we’ve got a memorial here,” he said.
Along with paying respects to those lost during the pandemic the regular tradition of honouring veterans who have served the country will continue with the burning of a sacred fire.
Digness said they are expecting over ten thousand people to turn out over the four days. Among those expected are Métis National Council (MNC) President Cassidy Caron along with a number of others dignitaries who are expected to be on hand.
“There’s quite a few dignitaries showing up for some of the announcements that will be made at Batoche,” said Digness.
(Photo Courtesy of Back to Batoche Days Facebook)