This open-air museum tells the stories of agricultural settlers from Eastern Europe who came to the region over a century ago in search of free land.
The award-winning Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village is an open-air museum on the shores of Goose Lake. Travel back in time to see how Ukrainian agricultural settlers lived between 1892 and 1930. Watch role-players portraying everyday routines from that era, including baking, horse minding and gardening.
At the time, some 100,000 Ukrainians came to Canada to find free land for agriculture. Real people, dressed up and acting like the pioneers from those days, tell the story of Ukrainian immigrants who settled in east-central Alberta between 1892 and 1930. More than 30 historic buildings have been restored and relocated to the museum and then furnished in the style of that era. The large site is divided into three areas: the farmsteads, rural community and railway-centered town.
Learn about the rural history of east-central Alberta at the farmstead zone. Visit the one-room school, blacksmith and the sod house and see a grain elevator in action. Browse the grocery store to see what was the staple food at the time.
Take your kids to one of the regular events for families to learn more about east-central Alberta’s Ukrainian pioneers. Enjoy wagon rides, and take part in grain grinding, feather stripping and quilting. Watch courtyard performers and dancing demonstrations.
During Ukrainian Day in August, the local Ukrainian community celebrates their past and present. Have a pancake breakfast, join the activities, watch a concert and see Ukrainian art. Visit the attraction’s website to find out what is on during your stay.
The Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village is east of Edmonton, just outside Elk Island National Park. The trip takes about half an hour from downtown. It is open from May long weekend to Labour Day in September. Weekends and holidays are busier, but also more interesting with more interpreters and activities. Admission is cheap and free for children under 7 years old.
Reserve a day to visit the village and be prepared for a lot of walking from building to building. There are food services, a gift shop and picnic area. Bring wood if you’d like to use the fire pits.
