Photo: Anniversary sign at Île-à-la-Crosse marking the community’s 250th anniversary (1776–2026).
By: Nicole Goldsworthy
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
SASKTODAY.ca
One of Canada’s oldest continuously inhabited northern communities will celebrate a major milestone this week as Île-à-la-Crosse marks its 250th anniversary with six days of cultural events, entertainment and community celebrations.
The festivities begin Friday, July 3, and continue through July 8, drawing visitors from across Saskatchewan and beyond to commemorate the community’s rich history and enduring cultural traditions. The full itinerary can be found on the ILEX 250 website.
Located in northwestern Saskatchewan, Île-à-la-Crosse traces its roots back to 1776 and has long been an important gathering place for Michif, Métis, First Nations and northern peoples. Organizers say the anniversary celebration will honour that legacy while recognizing the people who continue to shape the community today.
“This is more than a celebration of our history; it is a celebration of our people,” Mayor Myra Malboeuf said in a news release. “For 250 years, Île-à-la-Crosse has been a place where cultures come together, families are built, traditions are shared and communities support one another. We are honoured to welcome everyone home to celebrate this remarkable milestone with us.”
The event is expected to welcome representatives from Indigenous governments and municipal, provincial and federal governments, including Bernadette McIntyre, along with Elders, community leaders and special guests.
Organizers say the celebration will feature a wide range of activities designed to showcase the community’s culture, history and traditions. Programming includes opening ceremonies, canoe races, traditional cultural demonstrations, Métis and Cree storytelling, a Michif marketplace, workshops, historical exhibits, sporting events, family activities, a Healing Village and nightly drone shows.
Live entertainment is also scheduled throughout the week, highlighted by a performance from country group BlackHawk during a cabaret on Saturday, July 4.
As of Thursday, the Northern Village of Île-à-la-Crosse said on social media only 49 tickets remained for the BlackHawk performance. The remaining tickets, priced at $60 each, are available at the Northern Sunset Motel. Organizers also announced that email money transfers would no longer be accepted after noon Thursday, with any late payments to be refunded once the event office reopens on July 13.
Ahead of Saturday’s sold-out or near-sold-out event, organizers issued several reminders for attendees.
The cabaret is a 19-and-over event, and guests must present valid government-issued photo identification upon request. Security personnel will screen attendees using metal detectors, and a police K9 unit will also be on site. Security reserves the right to refuse entry.
With 1,200 tickets available for the show, the Northern Village of Île-à-la-Crosse encouraged guests to arrive early, as seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Local residents are also encouraged to carpool because of limited parking, while shuttle services will operate from the main event venues.
Additional amenities include a designated outdoor smoking area, portable washrooms for men, indoor washrooms reserved for women and beer carts inside the arena.
The anniversary celebration has been supported by numerous volunteers, community partners and sponsors. Premier sponsors include the Gitzel Family Fund, Sakitawak Development Corporation, PLEDCO and Métis Nation–Saskatchewan.
The Northern Village of Île-à-la-Crosse said the weeklong celebration is intended not only to recognize Île-à-la-Crosse’s past but also to inspire future generations while bringing together residents, former residents and visitors to celebrate one of Canada’s oldest communities.
A complete schedule of events, visitor information, accommodations and ticket details are available on the ILEX 250 website.