Edmonton has been selected as the host city for the 2026 International Indigenous Tourism Conference (IITC), reinforcing its position as a leading destination for Indigenous tourism in Canada. This milestone highlights Edmonton’s commitment to celebrating Indigenous culture, fostering partnerships, and offering transformative experiences for visitors.
Indigenous tourism is one of the fastest-growing sectors in Canada, contributing to economic reconciliation and cultural preservation. Edmonton’s Walking Forward Together Indigenous Tourism Strategy has been instrumental in developing new Indigenous tourism offerings, creating authentic opportunities to engage with First Nations and Métis cultures, histories, and traditions.
As anticipation builds for 2026 IITC, Edmonton offers visitors a diverse array of Indigenous experiences year-round.
Cultural & Educational Experiences
UNCEDED: Voices of the Land
A multi-sensory art exhibition, UNCEDED: Voices of the Land explores Indigenous identity, resilience, and history through the lens of contemporary artists. This limited-time event takes place March 8 to June 21, 2025 and provides a thought-provoking and educational experience.
Indigenous Peoples Experience at Fort Edmonton Park
A transformative journey through Indigenous histories and perspectives, Indigenous Peoples Experience at Fort Edmonton Park is an award-winning attraction that shares the stories, traditions, and oral histories of First Nations and Métis peoples through interactive exhibits and storytelling.
Dragonfly CreeAtions
Dragonfly CreeAtions offers immersive cultural experiences, including tipi visits and drum-making workshops, designed to deepen visitors’ understanding of Cree traditions and spiritual teachings. It also features authentic, handmade Indigenous gifts and artwork.
Mobilize Waskawewin
In addition to offering a line of Indigenous-designed clothing, Mobilize Waskawewin provides experiential screen printing workshops that integrate smudging ceremonies, sharing circles, and authentic Indigenous storytelling, offering participants a unique cultural and artistic experience.
Indigenous Culinary Experiences
Bernadette’s: One of Canada’s Best New Restaurants
Led by Indigenous chef Scott Iserhoff, Bernadette’s has gained national acclaim for its innovative approach to Indigenous cuisine, combining traditional ingredients with contemporary techniques. PaperBirch by Chartrand
Located at the Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market, the recently-opened PaperBirch by Chartrand showcases contemporary Indigenous cuisine crafted by Indigenous chef and Top Chef Canada contestant Shane Chartrand.
Outdoor & Adventure Experiences
Métis Crossing Cultural Experiences
Métis Crossing offers a variety of hands-on cultural experiences, from traditional crafts and workshops to guided interpretive programs such as Visions, Hopes and Dreams, which explores Métis history and traditions through storytelling and cultural demonstrations.
Sky Watching Domes at Métis Crossing
Offering a unique overnight experience, Métis Crossing’s Sky Watching Domes provide visitors with the opportunity to connect with Métis astronomy, storytelling, and the vast beauty of Alberta’s night sky.
Talking Rock Tours
Talking Rock Tours offers immersive experiences in Alberta’s natural landscapes, including Edmonton’s downtown river valley, blending Indigenous history, geology, and environmental stewardship.
Edmonton’s dedication to Indigenous tourism continues to expand, ensuring visitors can engage with rich cultural traditions, experience world-class hospitality, and gain a deeper understanding of Indigenous heritage. Lonely Planet named Edmonton one of the 10 ‘Best in Travel’ Top Cities for 2025, recognizing its vibrant arts scene, historic districts, and Indigenous storytelling at the Royal Alberta Museum’s Human History Hall. With the 2026 IITC, the city is set to solidify its place as a premier Indigenous tourism destination.
