Birch Bark Canoe Building at Kejimkujik

Traditional Mi’kmaw Birch Bark Canoe Building

The canoe is an iconic symbol of the Mi’kmaw cultural landscape and also of the contemporary experience of Kejimkujik. The Kejimkujik Birch Bark Canoe Project highlights the work of master Mi’kmaw craftsman, Todd Labrador, as he builds traditional birch bark canoes in Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site. 

Public demonstrations

Witness the ancient craft of birch bark canoe building in person with master Mi’kmaw craftsman Todd Labrador and Parks Canada Cultural Interpreter Rose Meuse. Public demonstrations offer a ‘drop-in’ customary Mi’kmaw cultural experience, complete with beautiful views of Kejimkujik Lake.

Visitors and members of the Mi’kmaw community are encouraged to visit the canoe-building shop at the far end of Merrymakedge Beach. Each day offers a different stage of the canoe building process, so come often and spread the word.

Dates and Times: Thursday to Sunday, from 12:30 am to 3:30 pm in July and August

Fee: FREE with entry fee

Ages: All ages welcome

Location: Merrymakedge Beach, Canoe Building Shop

Parking: Merrymakedge P4 – follow posted signs to the shop

Notes:

• Demonstrations are offered rain or shine.
• There will be no fee for workshops offered this year.

Meet Todd Labrador

As a seventh-generation Mi’kmaq from the Kejimkujik region, Todd Labrador carefully crafts birch bark canoes with bark, spruce root, and other natural materials that are sustainably harvested in local Acadian Forests. His great-grandfather was a master canoe maker, and Todd taught himself how to build canoes after his own father passed away. Today, Todd Labrador is renowned for his work and is one of the most highly sought after craftsmen for his skills.