On Thursday, Mādahòkì Farm hosted a special event to celebrate the launch of new Visitor Experiences which provide greater access to immersive and authentic Indigenous programming. This programming was made possible thanks to funding from the Government of Canada, Ottawa Tourism, as well as a $200,000 Resilient Communities Fund grant awarded to Aboriginal Experiences, Arts and Culture to support the development of the Mishtadim (Equine Assisted Learning) program, one of the new experiences offered.
Previously reserved for school, tour and corporate groups, Visitor Experiences are now open to individuals and families, offering unique opportunities to connect with Indigenous culture through land, animals and storytelling.
“I’m proud to see the Ontario Trillium Foundation support such meaningful work at Mādahòkì Farm. The Mishtadim experience not only helps preserve the cultural and ecological legacy of the Ojibwe Spirit Horses, but also provides a powerful opportunity for people of all backgrounds to connect with Indigenous heritage in a respectful and engaging way,” said Tyler Watt, MPP for Nepean.
Mishtadim (Equine Assisted Learning) is an experiential, learner-based approach that uses guided interactions with the rare Ojibwe Spirit Horses as guides to build confidence, leadership and emotional resilience. The program is led by nationally certified facilitators and delivered through an Indigenous lens rooted in traditional storytelling and the Seven Grandfather Teachings, all within a culturally safe and supportive environment. Mishtadim helps participants reconnect with the land, develop life skills and experience healing through meaningful connection with these sacred animals.
“The support from the Ontario Trillium Foundation has been instrumental in helping us expand our vision for Mādahòkì Farm. We’ve been able to bring the Mishtadim experience to life and add it to the new small-group programming for families and individuals. This is a major step forward in making Indigenous culture accessible, engaging, and welcoming to all visitors year-round,” said Trina Mather-Simard, CEO of Mādahòkì Farm.
This expanded summer and year-round programming received support from the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario).
“Supporting the expansion of Mādahòkì Farm’s Indigenous tourism programming reflects our
commitment to building a Canadian tourism sector that embodies our shared national values.
Advancing reconciliation, education, and economic opportunity for Indigenous partners is a
priority for our new government,” said the Honourable Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial
Intelligence and Digital Innovation and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic
Development Agency for Southern Ontario.
“The expansion of Mādahòkì Farm’s Indigenous tourism programming is a meaningful step forward for the development of Indigenous tourism in our region. Through the Destination Development Fund, Ottawa Tourism is proud to support initiatives that elevate Indigenous voices and create new, year-round cultural experiences for visitors that strengthen our destination as a whole,” said Michael Crockatt, President and CEO of Ottawa Tourism.
July & August Programming
- Mishtadim (Equine Assisted Learning): Close encounter sessions with the rare and endangered Ojibwe Spirit Horses. Held on Thursdays.
- Creation Workshop: A short introduction to Indigenous culture with a mini tour of the cultural displays and gardens of Mādahòkì Farm, followed by creating your own traditional dreamcatcher. Held on Fridays and Sundays.
- Farm Play: Personal meet and greet with many of the farm’s favourite farm animals – snuggle goats, feed the small animals, pet bunnies and have a personal tour meeting the Ojibwe Spirit Horses. Held on Saturdays.
- Indigenous Marketplace: Features over 60 Indigenous vendors, with one-of-a-kind products ranging from apparel, jewelry, home decor, traditional crafts, food and more. New to the Marketplace are Grab & Go Indigenous food, drinks and snacks prepared by the Mādahòkì culinary team.
- Legacy Trail: Walk the scenic Legacy Trail to spot traditional plants and medicines and learn about the Seven Grandfather Teachings.
Year-Round Programming – Starting September 15, 2025
- Trail of the Native Ponies: A self-guided walking tour across Mādahòkì Farm centred around the rare and endangered Ojibwe Spirit Horses. Along the trail, visitors will hear Elders’ and Knowledge Keepers’ stories and teachings, explore interactive Indigenous art installations, browse historical stories and documents, and experience the Spirit Horses in a whole new way through an immersive augmented reality encounter. Held Thursdays to Sundays.
- Spirit Horse Connections: A 3.5-hour cultural journey featuring a Traditional Welcome, Trail of the Native Ponies, tea & bannock, and a private walk with the rare Ojibwe Spirit Horses. Held daily – pre-booking required.
The new programming is part of Mādahòkì Farm’s evolution into a year-round destination, taking place both outdoors and inside the newly refurbished Mamawii Lodge. The farm’s two newest additions to the Ojibwe Spirit Horse herd were also unveiled during the launch event: a filly named Nesewin, meaning “air” or “to breathe” in Anishinaabemowin, and a colt named Mashkodewashk, which means sage, one of the four sacred medicines. For more information and bookings, visit madahoki.ca/visitor-experiences,