The Town of Okotoks is being transferred a Blackfoot painted tipi.

A tipi is to be transferred to the town by elders from nations of the Blackfoot Confederacy.

Mayor Tanya Thorn says it was made possible thanks to the town's Indigenous partners.

"We were connected with some Blackfoot elders from Siksika, Kainai, Piikani and Southern Piikani and we started some conversations of 'could we do this traditional tipi transfer?' It's a huge honour for our community."

A release from the town details the ceremony's importance.

"The tipi will be transferred in ceremony, which is an oral commitment from the Town to care for this tipi and to know its oral protocol. The ceremony and acceptance of this painted lodge is a vow from Town Council and Administration that we, as a community, will continue to honour our Indigenous partners... The ceremony is a symbol of Okotoks' commitment to reconciliation."

During the ceremony, only a few members of council and a few guests will be inside the tipi, but Okotokians are welcome to attend and view it from outside.

It's currently in the process of being painted, and the ceremony is scheduled for June 3.

The town is inviting residents to take part, with a three-day opportunity to leave a painted handprint on the inside of the tipi.

Okotokians can book a time to participate, with time slots available on March 16, 17, and 18.

You can sign up here.