In recent months I have been working with Keith Lefthand to offer First Nations cultural experiences and activities. In August and September, Keith and his family are hosting a variety of experiences, activities, and events at this ranch in Eden Valley.

You are welcome to join us. Note: There is a fee but well worth it.

View of Keith Lefthand’s ranch in Eden Valley, Alberta, photo by Jeff Nelson.

5 Days of Learning and Experiential Activities

If you are interested in indigenous history, culture, traditions, crafts, and activities, you are welcome to join us.

The dates are:

• Saturday, August 14

• Tuesday, August 17

• Saturday, August 28

• Saturday, September 11 (Competition involving traditional games)

• Sunday, September 12

For more information and tickets see: 

Some people Get in for free

1. There is NO additional fee for children under 16 who are coming with parents, grandparents, or guardians.

2. There is NO charge for journalists and social media influencers (TikTok, Facebook, Twitter, Snap, Bloggers, Podcasters, etc.). Contact Jeff Nelson for PROMO CODE.

3. There is NO charge if you made a donation on the GoFundMe page to help purchase the regalia. The value of your donation is $100 per person. Contact Jeff Nelson for the PROMO CODE. (You can still make a donation, see: Help Keith Lefthand Recover Historical Regalia

4. Everyone is required to sign a waiver of liability. Parents and guardians can sign for those under age.

Keith and Jamie Lefthand

Keith is an elder in the Bearspaw clan which is part of the Stoney Nakoda First Nation. He is a carpenter, a father and grandfather, and in past years a Band Councilor. His family is well known on the rodeo circuit. His youngest son, Colten, is a champion team roper.

Keith and Jamie Lefthand, photo by Jeff Nelson.

Tipi Created by Keith and Jamie Lefthand

During the early afternoon, you are invited to join Keith in the tipi that he and his wife, Jamie, designed and constructed for the recent Calgary Stampede. Keith and his family have been tipi holders at the Calgary Stampede for years. 

Tipi was Created by Keith and Jamie Lefthand, photo by Jeff Nelson.

List of Experiences and Activities

In the early afternoon:

• Have a look and sit inside Keith's fully furnished tipi

• Learn about the history of the Stoney-Nakoda people

• Ask questions about being a member of the Stoney-Nakoda First Nation

• Discover the history and intricacies of Keith's extensive collection of regalia and costumes

Later in the afternoon:

• Go on a guided hike and aim for the top of the hill behind Keith's place

• Go with a guide on a horseback ride on the trails behind the hill

• Cool down in the swimming hole on the Highwood River.

In the evening:

• Enjoy traditional food (Indian tacos)

• Listen to stories, history, and traditions

• Listen to performers as they sing, drum, and dance

• Learn the differences between all the distinct types of dances (grass, traditional, fancy, hoop, jingle, etc.)

On Saturday, September 11th we are planning:

• A series of competitive events like Indian relays, archery, stone-throwing, etc.

• We still need to work out the details, but it should be fun and entertaining

• If you attend one of the other days, you may want to attend this day in addition

Testimonials

On Wednesday, August 28th eight people attended as guests for the day. Here are their stories and what they loved about the day. (All videos taken by Jeff Nelson.)