With files from CBC News
Aug 12, 2025
Several buildings were destroyed during April fire
A heritage museum honouring Ukrainian culture in Alberta will remain closed as it works to restore several buildings and artifacts lost to a devastating fire.
A fire broke out at the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, east of Edmonton, in April. The fire levelled several buildings, including the visitor reception centre, exhibition galleries, collections and curatorial storage.
Furnishings for the historical buildings, as well as some artifacts and original research files also were lost.
Despite the damages, many of the village's buildings, including its historic structures such as its red barn and band stand, were spared.
Buildings adjacent to the visitor centre, including the building housing the restoration workshop, interpretation offices and costume storage, were also saved.
In a statement Monday, the Alberta government said the damages caused by the fire have been a profound loss for the province's Ukrainian community, and all Albertans who cherish the province's diverse cultural heritage.
Work is underway to clean up the site and re-establish services, officials said.
To allow for proper restoration, provincial officials said the Ukrainian village will be closed for the rest of the summer season and all upcoming summer events have been cancelled.
Village director David Makowsky said staff are committed to reopening.
"We are working to restore the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village so future generations can continue to experience and learn from Alberta's Ukrainian heritage," he said in Monday's statement.
"This has been a profound loss for our team and the community, and we are committed to reopening as soon as possible."