Echoes of Ethan

Pjila’si! Welcome to my home community of Membertou First Nation.

Membertou is a small, urban Mi’kmaq community located just 3 km from the heart of Sydney, Nova Scotia. It is one of five Mi’kmaq communities within the traditional district of Unama’ki (Cape Breton Island).

Membertou wasn’t always located where it is today. The original community, Kun’tewiktuk (also known as King’s Road Reserve), was situated along Sydney Harbour. In 1926, the Exchequer Court of Canada forcibly relocated the community from its original site—marking the first time in Canadian history that an Indigenous community was legally forced to move.

Things to Do

Visit the Membertou Heritage Park
This cultural centre and museum offers a living history of the people of Membertou and Mi’kmaq culture. You’ll find artifacts like arrowheads, traditional baskets, a birch bark canoe, and a wigwam replica. Book a guided tour or participate in a beading or dreamcatcher-making workshop. Before you leave, stop by the Petroglyphs Gift Shop for authentic Mi’kmaw-made crafts, artwork, and other unique merchandise.

Go on a Mi’kmaq Medicine Walk
Walk the forest trails of Membertou while learning about the medicinal plants and healing practices passed down by our ancestors. The experience includes a dreamcatcher workshop, a taste of traditional luskinikn (Mi’kmaq bread), and time to explore the Petroglyphs Gift Shop.

Grab a Bite to Eat at Kiju’s
Located in the Membertou Trade & Convention Centre, Kiju’s Restaurant offers contemporary cuisine with a local twist. Don’t miss live music every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evening—it’s a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

Bowl a String at Lanes
Lanes at Membertou is a modern 16-lane candlepin bowling alley that combines tradition with high-tech features for an immersive experience. After your game, head to The Eleventh Frame, a full-service bar and restaurant serving delicious pub-style dishes and signature drinks.

Go Skating or Catch a Hockey Game
The Membertou Sport and Wellness Centre features two NHL regulation-sized ice rinks, an indoor walking track, meeting rooms, a canteen, and a YMCA wellness facility. Public skating is offered every Monday and Friday from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. The Centre also hosts the annual Wallace Bernard Memorial Native Youth Hockey Tournament.

Attend an Event at the MTCC
The Membertou Trade & Convention Centre is one of the top event venues on Cape Breton Island. From concerts and conferences to performances, there’s always something happening. While there, check out Wells Craft Supply, which offers a variety of handmade dreamcatchers, drumsticks, prints, sage bundles, and crystal and gemstone jewelry.

Attend the Membertou Powwow
Held every August, the annual Membertou Powwow is a cultural celebration that welcomes everyone. Experience vibrant dancing, drumming, singing, and more in a family-friendly atmosphere rich with tradition.

Stay at the Hampton Inn
The Hampton Inn by Hilton Sydney is a partnership between Membertou and D.P. Murphy Hotels and Resorts. It features 182 guest rooms, a complimentary breakfast buffet, a fitness center, and a swimming pool with a waterslide. A convenient pedway connects the hotel directly to the Membertou Trade & Convention Centre.