A first-of-its-kind thermal spa is scheduled to open on a Saskatchewan First Nation later this year. According to the Whitecap Dakota First Nation, the Dakota Dunes Thermal Spa will officially open to the public Dec. 4, 2026. The $54 million development, which is adjacent to the already-established casino and golf course owned and operated by Whitecap Dakota First Nation, is expected to create 165 jobs. The thermal spa is the first of its kind in Saskatchewan, and the inclusion of Indigenous themes is a first in Canada. Indigenous Services Canada contributed $17 million to the project. Whitecap Dakota Nation says the spa will introduce “a new, Indigenous wellness destination focused on relaxation, restoration, culture and connection to the land.” The spa will combine thermal pools, wellness circuits, relaxation spaces, spa treatments, and cultural programming. The setting is inspired by Indigenous perspectives on wellness, respect for nature and connection to the land. “This project represents much more than the opening of a new tourism attraction,” said Chief Darcy Bear, Whitecap Dakota Nation. “It reflects Whitecap Dakota Nation’s vision of creating world-class experiences rooted in our culture while generating lasting economic opportunities for our Nation and the province.” A groundbreaking ceremony was held in July 2024, with construction beginning the following month. At the time, Chief Bear noted the nation once had a 70 per cent unemployment rate. At the time of construction, it was down to six per cent. The official opening date announcement will be celebrated at a special event Aug. 20, with Canada’s Minister of Indigenous Services Mandy Gull-Mirasty joining Chief Bear and Whitecap Dakota Nation leadership. The thermal spa will join other established tourism destinations on Dakota Dunes Resort, including a golf course and casino.
