Co-hosted by the Ontario Archaeological Society – Ottawa Chapter, our Public Archaeology Day provides a hands-on approach to learning about this science. Throughout the morning there will be a variety of information stations manned by professional and avocational archaeologists ready to share their knowledge, demonstrate techniques and answer your questions.
Saturday Morning: 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM
- Every sherd tells a story – Mend broken ceramics; we love a puzzle!
- Flintknapping – Learn how stone tools were made with Brad Drouinn.
- Great Wall of China – Be inspired by old ceramics and decorate a plate. Help build the campers’ own Great Wall display.
- Meet the Historian of the Little Bonnechere – Roderick “Rory” MacKay will be on hand to share the Spirits of the Little Bonnechere.
- Friends of Bonnechere Parks – Learn everything about the history and natural diversity of Bonnechere Park.
- Time Flies!! Step back, w-a-y back as Ken Swayze guides you across the human time line.
- Plus – Posters, displays, photographs, artifacts, stories and more!
Saturday Movie Night: 7:00 PM
A Pecha Kucha Evening: The Good Stuff
Join archaeologists for a fun and interesting evening. Short, 10-minute presentations will demonstrate how the mysteries of the past are revealed through a focus on artifacts – some odd ones, some that give us headaches, and some that are just very cool.
This Pecha Kucha story-telling format will feature visuals, artifacts, and lots of chitchat. Stories include A Goldilocks Story – Shanty Style; An Archaeological Pipe Dream; Feeling Flush; Woodland pots; and more.
Sunday Morning: 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM
Ick! Yuck! Eew!
What was daily life back in the early days of the Ottawa Valley really like? Explore some of the gross things from the past by examining archaeological artifacts and objects. You’ll be saying “Ick! Yuck! Eew!” and happy to be living in 2025! Match icky artifacts and objects to their less-icky modern versions. Draw your favourites and contribute the picture to a booklet about our gross Ottawa Valley archaeology and history.
To learn more about this science, participate in a simulated archaeological dig online: Dig Down, Dig Back!
Check out our campsite availability or book a daily vehicle permit up to 5 days in advance. Make your Reservations Online or call: 888-668-7275
