Indigenous Arts & Cultures in Salmon Arm

Discover Indigenous Destinations and Experiences in Salmon Arm

Salmon Arm, located in the heart of the Shuswap region, is part of the traditional territory of the Secwépemc (Shuswap) Nation, whose people have lived in the area for thousands of years. With its stunning lakes, rolling hills, and deep cultural heritage, Salmon Arm offers visitors an opportunity to explore Indigenous traditions through storytelling, art, and immersive land-based experiences.

Visit the Secwépemc Museum and Heritage Park

Located in nearby Kamloops, the Secwépemc Museum and Heritage Park offers an in-depth look at Secwépemc history, culture, and governance. The museum features traditional artifacts, oral histories, and exhibits on Indigenous land use, while the heritage park includes reconstructed pit houses (kekuli) that provide insight into traditional Secwépemc winter dwellings.

Explore the Adams River Salmon Run and Indigenous Fishing Traditions

Just a short drive from Salmon Arm, the Adams River Salmon Run is one of the most significant natural events in British Columbia. Every four years, millions of sockeye salmon return to the river to spawn, an event deeply significant to the Secwépemc people, who have relied on salmon for sustenance and trade for thousands of years. Visitors can learn about Indigenous fishing techniques and traditional salmon harvesting practices at Tsútswecw Provincial Park.

Indigenous Art and Public Installations

Indigenous art is a key part of the cultural landscape in Salmon Arm. Visitors can find public carvings, totem poles, and murals throughout the city that showcase Secwépemc artistry and storytelling. Local galleries and artisan markets often feature traditional beadwork, wood carvings, and woven textiles created by Indigenous artists.

Attend Indigenous Cultural Events and Festivals

Salmon Arm hosts several Indigenous-led events throughout the year, including National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations, storytelling sessions, and drum circles. These gatherings offer visitors an opportunity to experience traditional Secwépemc drumming, singing, and dancing.

Indigenous-Led Outdoor Experiences

The lakes, rivers, and forests surrounding Salmon Arm have long been vital to Secwépemc culture. Visitors can participate in guided nature walks, canoe tours, and foraging experiences that highlight Indigenous knowledge of plants, wildlife, and land stewardship.

Whether you’re exploring ancient fishing grounds, admiring Indigenous art, or engaging with Secwépemc storytelling traditions, Salmon Arm invites you to experience a rich cultural heritage that continues to thrive today.