SASKATOON — The government is looking to capitalize on the province's annual tourism spending, with a wide range of cultural attractions — museums, festivals, parks, and heritage sites — that showcase Saskatchewan’s history and natural beauty.
Tourism Saskatchewan said the province generates roughly $3 billion annually in tourism spending, with residents accounting for about 60 per cent of expenditures, the broader Canadian market at 26 per cent, and the rest from international visitors.
Parks, Culture, and Sports Minister Alana Ross said people across the province can celebrate what Saskatchewan has to offer, with various organizations providing experiences for people of all ages in local history, arts, and other outdoor recreational activities.
"There are opportunities in every corner of our province for people of all ages to get out, explore and connect,” said Ross during the announcement showcasing upcoming exhibits, festivals, performances, and programs across the province on Wednesday, July 8, at the Western Development Museum.
Saskatchewan Science Centre CEO Sandy Baumgartner, SK Arts CEo Lisa Bird-Wilson, Western Development Museum CEO Joan Kanigan, Creative Saskatchewan Film Analyst Sandra Panko, and Wanuskewin Heritage Park Co-Executive Director Andrew McDonald joined Ross at the event.
Ross credited the provincial organizations for highlighting the events, exhibits, and programs, which are supported by provincial government funding that promotes Saskatchewan’s cultural identity while helping attract visitors.
She said that whether experiencing local festivals, enjoying live performances, visiting museums or cultural sites, or taking part in hands-on science, history, and art activities, there is something for everyone to discover and enjoy, offering visitors a variety of destinations from north to south.
"We have a remarkable history. We have a beautiful province. I live just south of Prince Albert, and that's where the boreal forest begins. Then you go down to the plains and the beautiful Grasslands, and you go to the Cypress Hills area. We have such diversity in this province,” added Ross.
She added that visitors are increasingly interested in learning about Saskatchewan's history, cultural experiences, and diverse landscapes as they explore its parks, communities, and attractions, emphasizing that the province's cultural offerings appeal to a broad audience because of its diversity.
"I know tourism is really growing, and it's organizations and the places that we heard about today that are really important. People want to see them. They want to learn about our history. They want to learn what's here, and our parks are also a large attraction to the tourism industry,” said Ross.
"There are major events and a wide variety of activities for people. We're very diverse here, so we want to appeal to people from everywhere and to all ages. These experiences support local tourism, strengthen communities and remind us of everything Saskatchewan has to offer," she said.
Ross said these experiences not only provide entertainment but also strengthen local economies by drawing visitors into communities throughout Saskatchewan, with the work and people behind it proudly supported by the provincial government.
The minister said the province works closely with cultural and heritage organizations by providing grants and ongoing funding, describing the relationship as a partnership that allows local experts to develop programming that reflects their communities.
"We provide funding through granting programs and regular funding, and it's truly a partnership that we have with our organizations. Together, I think we provide a very strong product in the arts, culture and heritage world for tourism in the province of Saskatchewan,” added Ross.
