Heritage Village Set to Re-Open to the Public in 2017

(Fort McMurray, AB – Oct. 1, 2026) – Council has approved the operating plan for the Fort McMurray Heritage Village and Heritage Shipyard, paving the way for the return of public programming and visitor experiences that celebrate the region’s rich history. The operating plan supports the long-term preservation and sharing of local history through authentic experiences, meaningful community partnerships, and storytelling that honours Indigenous traditions and perspectives, and the diverse people who have shaped Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo.

Heritage Village open to public starting spring 2027

Beginning in Spring 2027, Heritage Village will be open to visitors Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. until the fall. An official spring opening date will be announced in 2027. Visitors can once again enjoy guided tours, school and seasonal programming, community events, a gift shop, and local vendor opportunities. This includes the return of Christmas at Heritage Village on Dec. 11 and 12 this holiday season. Stay tuned for more details! Facility rental bookings for the Village will also open Jan. 4, 2027.

Additional details about programming, tours, events, and bookings will be shared later this winter.

Heritage Shipyard planned to re-open in 2028

Earlier this month, the Heritage Shipyard was temporarily relocated to a nearby site to accommodate berm construction as part of the Flood Mitigation – Reach 6 project. Under the approved operating plan, the Shipyard is expected to re-open in 2028, subject to the completion of flood mitigation work and the successful reinstallation of artifacts and exhibits.

Fort Chipewyan Bicentennial Museum update

The Municipality is working with the Fort Chipewyan community and other levels of government to assess and preserve the collection at the museum. While the Fort Chipewyan Bicentennial Museum remains closed, next steps are expected to be discussed at an upcoming Council meeting in October. 

For more information, please contact Pulse at 780-743-7000 or visit rmwb.ca/pulse.