Change

I intended to spend all of 2014 writing about the ABC’s of Saskatoon, but I’ve gotten involved in a project (publishing my second book) that interests me more, so I’m going to change my focus for this blog. If you are still interested in the ABC’s of Saskatoon, some suggestions to search out follow. Obviously these are only a few of the (mostly) wonderful things about Saskatoon.
Doors Open Saskatoon – An event to showcase a number of interesting and heritage buildings in the city. The event is free (tours are available) and they have a web site.

Emma Lake – Not specifically in or near Saskatoon, but many artists from Saskatoon (Kenderdine, Lindner, Rogers, Mulcaster, Forsyth) and all over the world have worked here over the years, and many workshops have been given. Began in 1936, and has been put on hold for now by the University of Saskatchewan.

Folkfest – A fabulous event with great food, entertainment and exhibits. Held in August each year.

Fringe Festival – Indoor theatre, buskers, street vendors, and more held in the Broadway District end of July into August.

Gustin House – A heritage house commemorating musician Lyell Gustin. They hold music and art events and have a web site.

Huskie Athletics – The University of Saskatchewan athletic teams (15) that compete in Canada West Universities Athletic Association.

Indoor pools – Leisure Centres that have indoor pools are Harry Bailey Aquatic Centre, Lakewood Civic Centre, Lawson Civic Centre, and the Shaw Centre.

Jazz – Has been popular in Saskatoon for a long time, and various organizations (The Jazz Society), venues (The Bassment), and events (The Jazz Festival) provide opportunities to enjoy it.

Knox United Church – Only one of many architecturally interesting churches in Saskatoon. Check out http://www.saskatoonheritage.ca/protect/churches.html

Kinsmen Park and Play Village – A great place for kids, birthday parties, picnics, gatherings, with a carousel, miniature train to ride, play area, paddling pool and large grassy areas.

Library – Established in 1913 in the basement of the Independent Order of Oddfellows Hall, the library has grown to one main building and seven branches. Great staff, lots of books, movies, tv shows, musical CDs, and much more.

Marr Residence – The oldest house in Saskatoon still standing on its original site (built in 1884). The house has exhibits, and it and the garden are open for tours, workshops and other programs throughout the year. It supposedly has a resident ghost.

Nutana neighbourhood – Established in 1883 as the first permanent settlement of the Temperance Colonization Society. Encompasses the Broadway shopping area, as well as a large residential area.

Open Door Society – Has welcomed, and provided services to refugees and immigrants since 1981.

Persephone Theatre – Founded in 1974, and providing a rich and varied theatre experience. Now located at a beautiful site at River Landing (though parking in the area leaves something to be desired, not Persephone’s fault.)

Quilters Guild – They meet regularly, have a newsletter, and every two years they put on an amazing quilting show, well worth seeing. Check their web site.

Restaurants – As in every city, restaurants come and go. A few of my favourites are Szechuan Kitchen, The Rook and Raven, Las Palapas, Amigos Cantina, Broadway Cafe, D’lish, Calories.

Symphony – Founded in 1927, gives a variety of different concerts each year (e.g. main series, Music for a Sunday Afternoon, Great Music for Kids, etc.)

Trounce House – Built in 1883, the city’s oldest building, but no longer on its original site. And very small.

Ukrainian Museum – Overlooking the South Saskatchewan River, founded in 1936, Canada’s first Ukrainian Museum. Displays of clothing, tools, books, photographs, etc. With a gift shop, and a variety of programs.

Victoria Park – One of Saskatoon’s wonderful riverbank parks, in one of the oldest neighbourhoods. Has an outdoor skateboard facility, walking paths, an outdoor swimming pool, playground, and lots of grass.

Western Development Museum – So much to see and do, from Boom Town to tractors and farm machinery, and of course the gift shop, and Boom Town Cafe.

Xerosis – Is a medical term for abnormally dry skin (which is what we get on the prairies in the winter time). I mean, what word can you find that starts with ‘X’?

Yevshan Ukrainian Folk Ballet Ensemble  - Started in 1960, has performed throughout the world.

Zoo – Located at the Forestry Farm. Animals from the Saskatchewan area, and other places. Lots of programs for all ages, places to picnic.