Rediscover the historical buffalo hunt in Alberta

Posted on October 16, 2025 by admin

Southern Alberta Newspapers

Alberta is proud to be home to world-renowned heritage destinations like Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves at least 6,000 years of Plains Buffalo culture and Indigenous ingenuity. Located on the traditional territory of the Blackfoot Confederacy, the site invites visitors to connect with and gain a deeper understanding of one of the oldest Indigenous traditions in North America.

The new Buffalo Hunt exhibit is a powerful addition to Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, brought to life through a meaningful partnership between the Piikani Nation, the Canadian Museum of History and Alberta’s government.

“This new exhibit shares and preserves the history of Indigenous Peoples, inviting Albertans of all ages to connect more deeply with the land we call home. Alberta’s government remains dedicated to supporting projects that honour the Indigenous voices and traditions that continue to shape the cultural fabric of our province,” said Tanya Fir, Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women.

Adapted from an original diorama created for the Canadian Museum of History, the reimagined installation was carefully developed with guidance from Piikani Elders and Knowledge Keepers. This immersive exhibit explores the spiritual and cultural significance of the buffalo hunt, a tradition that sustained Plains Peoples for generations.

“The Buffalo Hunt Diorama honours the deep knowledge, resilience and cultural strength of the Blackfoot Peoples. It reminds us that reconciliation begins with listening, learning and preserving the stories that shape this land. Alberta’s government is proud to walk this path in partnership with Indigenous communities,” said Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Indigenous Relations.

Albertans and visitors alike are encouraged to experience this impactful new exhibit firsthand and discover how this age-old practice helped shape the lifeways, beliefs and enduring legacy of the Blackfoot Peoples.

Exhibition highlights

The exhibit dedication reflects the Alberta government’s ongoing $51-million investment in provincial museums and historic sites, and its continued commitment to reconciliation and cultural revitalization. Through a formal agreement between Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump and the Canadian Museum of History, the diorama has been gifted to the site and will remain on display for the foreseeable future.

“Our government is proud to support Alberta’s growing Indigenous tourism industry and the development of authentic Indigenous experiences. This exhibit is a great opportunity to showcase the rich history and traditions of the Blackfoot Peoples and attract visitors from around the world,” said Andrew Boitchenko, Minister of Tourism and Sport.

There are 20 provincially operated museums, historic sites and archives. Thirteen, including Head Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, are open year-round. Six others reopen for the summer season, while Brooks Aqueduct is accessible year-round as a self-guided outdoor site.

“The Canadian Museum of History is honoured to have worked in close partnership with the Piikani Nation and Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump to develop exhibitions and public programs relating to Blackfoot history and culture. The Museum offers this diorama as an expression of deep gratitude, friendship, and respect,” said Caroline Dromaguet, president and CEO of the Canadian Museum of History.

Budget 2025 maintains $51 million to support Alberta’s museums and heritage sites.

“We are proud to share the voices of Piikani Elders and Blackfoot Knowledge Keepers, and grateful to the Canadian Museum of History for its partnership and the generous donation of the diorama. Its presence here is a meaningful reflection of our relationship, and a powerful way to honour and preserve the cultural legacy of the buffalo hunt,” said Aaron Domes, site manager, Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump World Heritage Site.

Admission rates remain unchanged to ensure accessibility for Albertans and visitors. Indigenous Peoples are offered free admission to Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump. Explore Alberta’s History Annual Pass offers year-round family access to Alberta’s rich heritage.

Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump hosts drumming and dancing performances every Wednesday in July and August.

“The Blood Tribe/Kainaiwa congratulates the Head-Smashed-In-Buffalo Jump, recipients of the gifted Buffalo Hunt Diorama display. This installation brings our stories of the buffalo hunt to the centre’s visitors on one of the most important land markers of Blackfoot Territory, the buffalo jump. We thank the Piikani Knowledge Keepers for their valuable contribution in the development of the project and to ensure our Blackfoot voice is heard,” said Chief Traveller Plaited Hair, Kainai Nation.

For a full list of provincial museums and historic sites, visit: alberta.ca/historic-sites-museums.