Athabasca Tribal Council Cultural Festival wraps up fifth year in Fort McMurray

ATC Cultural Fest, 2025. Web image

Thousands gather at J. Howard Pew Memorial Park for celebration of Indigenous culture, teachings and traditions

FORT McMURRAY, AB. —The Athabasca Tribal Council Cultural Festival has wrapped up for another year after drawing thousands to one of Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo’s most popular late-summer events.

The festival ended Sunday evening with a traditional closing ceremony at J. Howard Pew Memorial Park, which was transformed into a traditional village with teepees, tents and activity stations. Visitors enjoyed bannock, cultural teachings, a learning lodge, workshops and activities for all ages.

This year’s program included a Hand Games tournament, drummers and traditional dancing, along with interactive opportunities for participants to learn more about Indigenous heritage.

Now in its fifth year, the festival has become a fixture on the regional calendar. Organizers said unseasonably warm weather did not affect attendance, with strong crowds throughout the weekend.