Two hundred years ago, in 1811, the explorer, cartographer, fur trader, and naturalist David Thompson travelled through the Athabasca Pass, essentially putting the Jasper area on the map and paving the way for millions of visitors and tourists who would visit Jasper National Park over the following 2 centuries.
To commemorate the David Thompson Bi-Centennial, throughout 2011 there are various events taking place in the Jasper area, some of which we have featured below:
From May 6 to September 25 2011, the Jasper-Yellowhead Museum and Archives will be hosting the exhibition David Thompson: A Legacy of Art, featuring works of various artists, including sketches and a map by David Thompson himself.
From June 24 to September 4 2011, interpretations of David Thompson’s explorations will be shown as part of the Theatre Program at Whistlers Campground each Tuesday at 9pm.
On Thursday August 18 2011 the Pelts and Paddles Rendezvous is an all day festival taking place at the Jasper Airfield Picnic Site from 11am to 6pm. Take the free shuttle from the Jasper Information Centre and enjoy a whole host of fun and interesting activities on offer throughout the day, including hay wagon rides, trappers’ activities and games, David Thompson’s Amazing Race, horse packing demonstrations, barbecue and beer garden.
Friday August 19 2011 sees the Watch the Brigade! event at Jasper Airfield at 8am, where several crews will be departing in traditional canoes on a historial 3 day voyage on the Athabasca River.
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