NISG̱A’A CULTURE IS DEEP
ROOTED AND ENDURING.
You are invited to learn more about how we’ve survived, adapted and thrived in this remarkable place.
Hli G̱oothl
Wilp-Adoḵshl Nisg̱a’a
the Nisg̱a’a Museum
This is our gift to each other and the world.
Located in the heart of Nisg̱a’a Lands, the Nisg̱a’a Museum is the home of the Ancestors’ Collection—over 300 priceless artifacts. Now, for the first time, this collection of cultural heritage is displayed together in its place of origin. It speaks of a unique people and place, yet tell stories with universal themes. You will be moved by the power and spirit encountered here.
Hli G̱oothl Wilp-Adoḵshl Nisg̱a’a means “The Heart of Nisg̱a’a House Crests,” a name that celebrates the importance of Nisg̱a’a tribes and tribal crests in Nisg̱a’a society. With a design inspired by traditional Nisg̱a’a longhouses, feast dishes, and canoes, the nearly 1,000 square metre facility contains exquisitely carved masks, bentwood boxes, headdresses, and regalia acquired from Nisga’a Lands during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. A permanent home for the preservation and celebration of all that is Nisg̱a’a, the Nisg̱a’a Museum is also a centre of research, learning, and cultural tourism in northwest British Columbia.
The museum also organizes food gathering tours and other cultural / educational walking tours.
Gitlax̱t’aamiks (New Aiyansh) Interpretative Centre
The Gitlax̱t’aamiks (New Aiyansh) Interpretive Centre features traditional artwork of the Gitmidiik (Grizzly Bear) clan and the four crests of the community on the front. Inside, are artifacts, displays, and audio-visual presentations showcasing the origin, history, and evolution of the Village of New Aiyansh. Visitors can take a guided tour of the main gallery and see a replica of the traditional smokehouse for a wonderful introduction to Ḵ’alli Aksim Lisims (Nass River) and Nisg̱a’a lands. The centre features a restaurant which will include traditional and western cuisine, gift shop, TV Lounge and Theatre.
House of Laws
A soaring structure inspired by traditional Nisg̱a’a designs, the Nisg̱a’a Lisims Government building and House of Laws is a landmark in the journey of Nisg̱a’a self-government. Come learn about the remarkable history of a self-determined people. Brochures are available for self-guided tours. Guided tours are available by request in advance only.
Our creative traditions arise from and celebrate both natural and supernatural worlds.
Come see how our carvers and artisans bring our stories to life.
Nisg̱a’a Carvers
Watch Nisg̱a’a carvers, apprentices, and master carvers at work in carving sheds throughout Nisg̱a’a Lands creating the latest feast bowls, pts’aan, and canoes. Call (250) 633-3000 to find out when and where to see them.
Nisg̱a’a Originals
Nisg̱a’a arts and crafts utilize patterns and shapes that are the hallmarks of classic Pacific Northwest Coast Indigenous art to render a style all their own. The images are often outlined by curving black lines that range from thick to thin. This is known as a “formline.” Other shapes include an ovoid (a rounded rectangle) and others that resemble the letters U, S, and T. Some believe that the distinctive ovoid shape came from patterns in nature, including the white eyepatch of an orca or the eye socket of the human skull.
Created on and inspired by Nisg̱a’a Lands, original Nisg̱a’a art, crafts, and carvings are available for sale. Original Nisg̱a’a arts and crafts make wonderful keepsakes and are renowned around the world.
Nisg̱a’a cultural gatherings and celebrations are based on the seasons and highlight our ancient ties to Nisg̱a’a Lands. To get a sense of how we see the months and seasons, check out the Nisg̱a’a Calendar. Many special events are open to visitors. Come celebrate with us.
Hobiyee is the Nisg̱a’a New Year celebration in February. For details, contact Nisg̱a’a Lisims Government at (250) 633-3000, or toll free at 1 866 633 0888.
Nisg̱a’a Day takes place in May and commemorates the anniversary of the Nisg̱a’a Treaty and the return of self-government. It is a celebration of all things Nisg̱a’a. Open to all. For more information, contact Nisg̱a’a Lisims Government at (250) 633-3000, or toll free at 1 866 633 0888.
Nisg̱a’a CALENDAR
| Ḵ’ALIIYEE | JANUARY | Sun rises closer to the north |
| BUXWLAḴS | FEBRUARY | Pine needles scatter with the north wind |
| X̱saak | MARCH | The time of eating oolichan |
| mm̓aal | April | Canoes are used again when the river is free of ice |
| Y̓ansa’alt | May | The buds have come out |
| Miso’o | June | The sockeye have arrived |
| X̱maa’y | July | The time of eating berries |
| W̓iihoon | August | Plenty of fish |
| G̱eenuugwiikw | September | Time of trapping marmots |
| X̱laaxw | October | Time of eating trout |
| Gwilatkw | November | Blanketing of new snow |
| Luut’aa | December | The time of staying in |
Experiences
NISG̱A’A MUSEUM
810 Highway Drive, Lax̱g̱alts’ap. For opening hours, or more information, visit our website or phone us.
GITLAX̱T’AAMIKS (NEW AIYANSH) INTERPRETIVE CENTRE
Visitors can take a guided tour of the main gallery and see a replica of the traditional smokehouse for a wonderful introduction to Ḵ’alli Aksim Lisims (Nass River) and Nisga’a lands. The centre features a restaurant which will include traditional and western cuisine, gift shop, TV Lounge and Theatre.
House of Laws
For more information, contact the Department of Communications and Intergovernmental Relations: (250) 633-3000 or email: communications@nisgaa.net