Historic volunteer-driven teepee project ready for Canada Day celebrations in Medicine Hat

Mercer said one of the most rewarding parts of the project has been the community support, with people continually offering to help and asking how they can become involved.

The project has involved traditional harvesting, sewing and construction while following Indigenous protocols throughout the process.

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READ: Tree harvesting event progresses community-led teepee project for Canada Day in Medicine Hat (May 25, 2026)

READ: A teepee project in Medicine Hat brings community together to share Indigenous culture (Apr 29, 2026)

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Mercer said every step, from painting the canvas to raising the finished teepees, has been treated as a ceremony.

“This is not just building teepees; everything we do from the time we got the canvas until [the teepees] are set up is ceremony,” Mercer said.

“We follow all the proper rules and traditions because this has been happening for thousands of years.”

Mercer said the project is about more than constructing the structures and hopes it creates opportunities for learning and cultural exchange, while expressing gratitude to everyone involved who contributed throughout the project.

“It’s a connection to the land. It’s paying all of our ancestors so much respect,” Mercer said.

“I’m so grateful, from the sewers, the cutters, the people harvesting, Elder Charlie, every person who had any part in this.”

While reflecting on the symbolism of raising the teepees in Medicine Hat, Mercer noted Indigenous peoples have lived in the region for thousands of years.

Organizers expect the completed teepee village to be a focal point of Canada Day celebrations at Kin Coulee Park, offering visitors an opportunity to learn about Indigenous traditions and culture while marking a first-of-its-kind gathering in the city.

by Jett Schwaier

Historic volunteer-driven teepee project ready for Canada Day celebrations in Medicine Hat

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