Indigenous Arts & Cultures in Salt Spring Island

Discover Indigenous Destinations and Experiences on Salt Spring Island

Salt Spring Island, the largest of British Columbia’s Southern Gulf Islands, is part of the traditional territory of the W̱SÁNEĆ (Saanich), Hul’q’umi’num (Cowichan and Penelakut), and other Coast Salish Nations. With its rich Indigenous heritage, stunning coastal landscapes, and thriving arts community, Salt Spring Island offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the deep cultural and spiritual connections between the First Peoples and the land.

Sacred Indigenous Sites and Interpretive Trails

Salt Spring Island has been home to Indigenous peoples for thousands of years, and several locations hold deep cultural and spiritual significance. Xwaaqw’um (Burgoyne Bay Provincial Park) is a historically significant site for the Hul’q’umi’num-speaking peoples, used for seasonal fishing, hunting, and gathering. Visitors can explore trails and interpretive signage that share the history of the land from an Indigenous perspective.

Visit Indigenous Art Galleries and Totem Poles

Salt Spring Island is well known for its thriving arts scene, and Indigenous artists play a vital role in the community. Local galleries and markets feature traditional Coast Salish carvings, jewelry, and weavings, reflecting stories and connections to the land and waters. Visitors can also find totem poles and other public Indigenous art installations throughout the island.

Attend Indigenous Cultural Events and Markets

Salt Spring Island regularly hosts Indigenous cultural events, storytelling sessions, and artisan markets where visitors can engage with local First Nations artists and knowledge keepers. These events often feature traditional drumming, singing, and dance performances, providing an opportunity to experience Coast Salish traditions firsthand.

Explore the Coast with Indigenous-Led Eco-Tours

The waters surrounding Salt Spring Island have long been central to Indigenous life, serving as major travel and trade routes. Visitors can take Indigenous-guided kayak and canoe tours, learning about traditional fishing practices, marine conservation, and the cultural importance of the Salish Sea.

Foraging and Traditional Plant Knowledge

The forests and meadows of Salt Spring Island are rich with medicinal plants and traditional food sources used by Indigenous communities for generations. Visitors can join guided walks led by Indigenous knowledge keepers, learning about native plants, sustainable harvesting techniques, and the traditional uses of the island’s diverse ecosystems.

Whether you’re exploring sacred landscapes, engaging with Coast Salish artists, or paddling the same waters that have sustained Indigenous communities for millennia, Salt Spring Island invites you to experience the deep cultural heritage and living traditions of its First Peoples.