Arts and Culture In Squamish

Squamish is a hub for arts and culture, where creators of all kinds incubate their craft. Home to renowned photographers and filmmakers, painters and potters, metal and wood workers, musicians and poets, brew masters and chefs, Squamish inspires a creative spirit that must be shared and appreciated. There are a myriad of ways to enjoy Squamish arts and culture and we invite you to #ExploreSquamish and enjoy these experiences first-hand.

History

Cast your gaze over Howe Sound on any summer afternoon and you will be dazzles b the colourful kites and sails of windsports enthusiast dotting the seascape. The strong, consistent winds are the basis for Squamish’s name, meaning Mother of the Wind. Named by the area’s original Coast Salish inhabitants, Squamish is now home to members of Squamish Nation. Their profound relationship to the land has shaped the culture of appreciation for the surrounding mountains, forests and waters.

Although the British explorer Captain George Vancouver sailed into Howe Sound in 1792, the first non-native settlers did not arrive until 1888. A lot has changed in Squamish since then, but pieces of history remain throughout the Squamish Valley. Today Squamish has a diverse group of artists, artisans, historians and performers that weave a cultural mix into our adventurous and energetic recreational lifestyle.