Saamis Tepee

World's Tallest Tepee

The Saamis Tepee was originally constructed for the Calgary 1988 Winter Olympics. Each of the 10 masts feature a large storyboard depicting aspects of native culture and history.

Below the Saamis Tepee in scenic Seven Persons coulee lays the Saamis Archaeological Site, one of the most important archaeological sites of the Northern Plains. The area was once a buffalo camp and meat processing site, and experts believe over 83 million artifacts are buried at the site.

The Saamis Tepee is located on the Trans-Canada Highway next to Tourism Medicine Hat. The main masts of the tepee measure 215 feet (the same as a 20 story building!) and the diameter is 160 feet, with a foundation weight of 800 metric tons.

Lighting for a Cause

Saamis Tepee colour illumination

We value activities that bolster community spirit and create a sense of belonging for residents.

The purpose of the ‘Lighting for a Cause' program is to:

  • promote awareness of important social causes
  • accentuate and celebrate the spirit of living in Medicine Hat
  • promote a sense of belonging in the community

Please read the guidelines below to ensure that your request fits with the criteria. If you are uncertain if your project is eligible, please contact us for assistance.

Application package

Eligibility

Lighting will be considered for:

  • nondenominational events/causes
  • nonpolitical events/causes
  • registered charitable events/causes

Lighting cannot be considered for:

  • personal occasions (e.g. birthdays, anniversaries)
  • political events or observances
  • religious figures, events, organizations or institutions
  • commercial requests (ie product launches, corporate events, advertising)

Fees & Duration

Lighting time can be booked from one day up to one month.

  • $100 for one day
  • $250 per week
  • $500 for one month

Evaluation

An approval of any illumination is at the discretion of the City of Medicine Hat and not subject to appeal. All requests will be evaluated based on meeting the guidelines above as well as:

  • the nature of the cause,
  • history and background of the organization, cause or event,
  • how the lighting will benefit the cause or event,
  • marketing plan to educate the public on why the Tepee is illuminated in colour.

We will respond by email to let you know if your application is approved. Applications will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis and may be submitted up to six months in advance.

If an application is declined, it is not a reflection of the merits or importance of the request.

Requests must be submitted at least 30 days before requested date.

For more information, email Lighting for a Cause.

Lighting schedule
DatesColourDescription
October 3-9 Green The tepee will be lit in green in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Week.
October 10 Purple The tepee will be lit purple for World Mental Health Day
October 11 Rainbow The tepee will be lit rainbow for National Coming Out Day.
October 12-18 Pink and Blue The tepee will be lit pink and blue for Asexual Awareness.
October 19 Blue, and Purple and Blue The tepee will be purple on the top and blue and purple poles on the bottom for N DEAM.
October 26 Yellow and Purple The tepee will be lit up yellow and purple for Intersex Awareness Day.