Calendar of events

Get ready to travel back in time and immerse yourself in the vibrant history of the fur trade era at Fort Langley National Historic Site. For over 25 years, the Brigade Days event has been a cherished tradition at Fort Langley, and it’s making a grand return this BC long weekend from August 3 to 5! Join us for a weekend packed with exciting, family-friendly activities that bring the 19th century to life.

Event Highlights:

Historical Reenactments:

Experience the magic as dozens of costumed interpreters and volunteers recreate the bustling life at Fort Langley during the fur trade era.

Interactive Demonstrations:

Dive into hands-on experiences by observing black powder demonstrations (daily at 11 am and 2 pm) and learning traditional skills such as blacksmithing, trapping, and fur trading from our expert interpreters. Don’t miss our fun fur trade fashion show at 1 pm on Sunday, August 4.

Cultural Performances:

Enjoy a rich tapestry of storytelling, music, and dance performances celebrating the diverse cultures involved in the fur trade, including Indigenous, Hawaiian, and Scottish traditions. Be sure to catch dance performances by the Spirit of the Pacific throughout the day on Sunday, August 4.

Children and Adults Activities:

Kids can get creative with hands-on crafts and games designed to teach them about fort life. Gather your team of eight or join forces with other visitors for our thrilling “Fort Feats of Strength” contest at 3 pm on Sunday, August 4, an old-fashioned relay race!

Food and Refreshments:

Treat your taste buds to delicious food inspired by traditional recipes and modern favorites at The Ancestor Café located onsite.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a family seeking a fun outing, or simply curious about the past, Brigade Days at Fort Langley offers a unique opportunity to explore and celebrate the rich heritage of British Columbia.

Dress up in your finest period attire and capture some memorable photos or videos! Share your favorite moments with us during the event. Tag @FortLangleyNHS and use #BrigadeDays2024 for a chance to be featured on our social media!

Daily Activities (Aug 3-5):

• 4:45 pm: Bagpiper closes the fort for the day
• 10 am to 5 pm: Ancestor Café open all long weekend
• Collect trading cards to get a free Brigade Days medallion (while supplies last)
• Make your own Brigade Days trading card
• Gold panning
• Blacksmithing demonstrations

Agenda

Saturday August 3:

• 11 am and 2 pm: Black powder demonstrations.
• See a pig and lamb roast using authentic blacksmith items made at the fort.
• Watch trapping demonstrations, storytelling, and music throughout the day.
• Create your own Brigade Days trading card.
• Collect trading cards to receive a free Brigade Days medallion (while supplies last).
• 4:45 pm: Hear a bagpiper closing the fort for the day.

Sunday August 4:

• 10 am to 4 pm: Join Métis knowledge keepers Lorelei Lyons and Ken Robilard as they share their teachings and fun Métis games. Perfect for the kiddos!
• 11 am: Black powder demonstrations (shooting muskets)
• 1 pm: Fur trade fashion show
• 2 pm: Black powder demonstrations
• 3 pm: Feats of strength competition
• 4:45 pm: Hear a bagpiper closing the fort for the day.

Monday August 5:

• 10 am to 10:20 am: Spirit of the Pacific hula performance
• 10:30 am to 11 pm: Lei making
• 11 am: Black powder demonstrations (shooting muskets)
• 12 pm to 12:20 pm: Spirit of the Pacific hula performance
• 12:30 pm to 1 pm: Get your photo taken in a bateau with costumed interpreters, including a chance to speak with Pat Calihou, Métis artist who built the bateau
• 1 pm to 1:30 pm: Join our special guest, Kate Humble, NHS Superintendent, along with the Fort Langley Canoe Club, for a fascinating discussion on challenging topics in Canadian history. (FREE at the waterfront)
• 1 pm to 2 pm: Lei making
• 2 pm: Black powder demonstrations (shooting muskets)
• 3 pm to 3:20 PM: Spirit of the Pacific hula performance
• 3:30 pm to 4 pm: Lei making
• 4:45 pm: Hear a bagpiper closing the fort for the day.