Plan your groups visit...

Kana:ta prides itself on delivering a unique and holistic fun and educational experience. Through interactive learning within a safe and positive environment our goal is to increase the understanding and appreciation of Indigenous cultures from around the world, specifically Haudenosaunee/Onhkwehonweh.

Offering a wide range of activities we can accommodate groups of all ages, sizes and backgrounds.  We recommend that each group starts their experience with our Basic Tour which can run from one to two hours.  To enhance your experience add to your visit one or more of our Interactive Programs outlined below. Full day or multi-day programming and over night camping are also available. For more info and price list email us at kanatavillage@gmail.com.
THE BASIC TOUR:
  • A guided tour of our 17th century replica Mohawk longhouse. Participants get a glimpse into the everyday life of the Onhkwehonweh/ Haudenosaunee and learn about family and social structure, as well as, some of our traditional teachings and stories.
  • Participants travel and explore the Cedars to reach the White Pine and learn about the Law of Peace and the beginning of a meaningful partnership between the Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, Seneca, Tuscarora and the formation of the Six Nations Confederacy. 
  • If time allows participants are led on a guided hike through our Nature Trails, which were once used by Residential School students.​
INTERACTIVE PROGRAMS:

Lacrosse & Traditional Games
  • Learn about Canada’s National summer sport through the lens of the Haudenosaunee where this game has been played from the time of creation. Before participants partake in basic development drills they will learn the true history of the game and its connection to the Haudenosaunee creation story. Through physical play participants learn about the importance of traditional games and how they were used for fun and enjoyment but also in fostering strength, agility, endurance and team work, essential skills needed in the everyday life of the Onhkwehonweh. Time permitting participants can also learn about other traditional games including Double Ball, Long Ball, Bone & Toggle, Snow Snake and Rope Games.

Archery
  • For centuries the Haudenosaunee/Ohnkwehonwe people have lived off the land, thriving from the gifts of turtle island. To provide food for the community wild game was usually hunted with a bow and arrow. Participants will test their skills through target practice and learn about how this traditional form of hunting exercises patience, controlled breath, mental stamina and hand/eye coordination. Various types of bow and arrows will be discussed. Instruction on proper and safe techniques is top priority. 

Traditional Arts & Crafts
  • Participants will engage in creating their very own arts & crafts based on traditional Ohnkwehonweh/Haudensaunee methods and designs. Our most popular craft has been the Wampum Belt key chain. Here participants learn the significance of the white and purple beads (Cohog Shells) and how Wampum Belts were used as a form of historical documentation. Participants can chose to re-create the Two Row Wampum or get creative and make their own design. The wampum belt key chain can be completed in an hour, more complex crafts such as carving, drum making or moccasin making take a minimum of 2 hours. 

Social Songs & Dances
  • Listen and learn as traditional knowledge keepers drum, sing and dance Ohnkwehonweh/Haudensaunee social songs and share the significance behind each song and dance.  Audience participation is optional but highly recommended. No matter the size of the group this program includes one singer/drummer and one dancer. 

Scavenger Hunt - Available as of September 2017
  • To experience the Scavenger Hunt participants must have completed the Basic Tour including the Nature Trail hike. Using clues and riddles participants explore the grounds in small groups collecting culturally significant items. Based on all of the information they received through the Basic Tour, here the participants put their new found knowledge to the test. When all of the groups have completed their tasks we reconvene and share with the whole group the items that have been collected.
SPEAKER SERIES:
  • For full day or multi-day programming you may choose to include a Speaker. If there is a topic you would like let us know and we can reach out to the community to try and facilitate the desired speaker. Some of the topics we have offered in the past have included, Residential Schools, Languages and Local Treaties & Deeds. 

* Kanata Village is proud to offer on-site catering available upon request.   Advance notice is required.