Yorkton Tourist Attractions
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An important east Saskachewan center for local commerce Yorkton is also characterized by ethnic diversity. In particular the Ukrainian heritage of many of the inhabitants of the area is manifest in its architecture, exhibitions, craftwork and fine European cooking.The town is also known for its internationally acclaimed Short Film and Video Festival.From here the Yellowhead Highway makes its way westwards to Foam Lake across vast wheat-covered plains.
Good Spirit Lake Provincial Park
"Good Spirit Lake" is a translation of the Indian word "Kitchimanitou", a Hudson's Bay Company trading post of that name (established in 1880) being incorporated into the Provincial Park when it was created in 1931. The 1900 ha (4695 acre) Park extends along the shores of Good Spirit Lake with its inviting sandy beaches and warm, shallow water. Planted with poplars the Park is also well known for its fine dunes of beautifully clean sand up to 5 m / 16 ft high which surround the lake. Being ecologically very sensitive these are out of bounds for walking.Continue south on Hwys. 229 and 9 to rejoin the main route (Hwy. 16) at Yorkton.
Doukhobor Heritage Village, Verigin, Canada
Along the road in Verigin (population 128) an interesting stop can be made at the Doukhobor Heritage Village. Among the nine buildings are a completely original turn-of-the-century gentleman's residence and older houses reflecting the lifestyle and customs of the Doukhobour pioneers. The career of their leader Peter Verigin is also charted in considerable detail. Other things to see include a brick oven, bath house, prayer house, museum, administration buildings, barns, a blacksmith's forge and farming implements.
Yorkton Arts Council - Godfrey Dean Art Gallery
The Yorkton Arts Council (in the Godfrey Dean Cultural Center) exhibits work by local artists.The York Arts Council presents both visual and performing arts, including conerts. One of the important events hosted by the Council is Snowflower, an annual art and craft show held in the early fall.
Foam Lake Museum, Foam Lake, Canada
Visits to the interesting Foam Lake Museum Association in Foam Lake (population 1443) are by arrangement only.Foam Lake Heritage Marsh, a 1620 ha (4000 acre) area of wetland surrounded by hills about 7 km (41/2 mi.) to the north-west, is an excellent place for observing water birds
Gallagher Centre Water Park
Gallagher Centre Water Park in Yorkton features a wave pool, whirlpool, lazy river, two storey waterslide, 25 metre pool, sauna and steam rooms. This is an indoor facility that can be enjoyed year round. The center also hosts a variety of programs including lessons.
St Mary's Ukrainian Catholic Church
Also rewarding is a visit to the remarkable St Mary's Ukrainian Catholic Church, the first brick-built Ukrainian church in Canada. The 21 m (69 ft) high dome is decorated with outstanding paintings (1939 and 1941) by Steven Meush.
Yorkton Short Film and Video Festival
The Yorkton Short Film and Video Festival is an annual, internationally acclaimed festival, held each year in late May. In addition to films, workshops are also held throughout the festival, along with other entertaining events.
Yorkton Western Development Museum
Yorkton's Western Development Museum - Story of the People is full of interest, vividly illustrating the history and traditions of Canada's immigrant population.
