| SASKATOON is a magical city, a place with that rare combination of big city
amenities and small town spirit. Established in the late 1800's by a group of settlers
looking for Utopia, it was named after the Cree word for an indigenous wild berry.
Originally a gathering place for early settlers, Saskatoon today is a vibrant and
diverse city - a university town, agricultural service centre, and base for mining,
manufacturing and flourishing high tech industry.
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| Selecting a site overlooking the scene South Saskatchewan River, the founding
fathers would be proud today of the clean, wide, tree-lined streets, numerous parks
and over 300 acres of riverbank parklands with developed trail system.
Saskatoon is a four season destination with much to offer visitors. History comes
alive at many exceptional museums such as the Western Development Museum
and its popular mainstreet Boomtown 1910. Six thousand years of habitation can
be explored at Wanuskewin Heritage Park.
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| A cultural oasis, Saskatoon boasts several professional and amateur theatre
groups, a symphony and numerous art galleries. Many festivals and special events
are celebrated annually. From Winterfest in February, to the ethnic celebrations of
Folkfest, and Vesna, to the renowned Saskatchewan Jazz Festival, to the innovative
Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan Festival and the popular Saskatoon Exhibition,
the good times are guaranteed.
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Climate
The weather in Saskatoon is generally dry and sunny. Summer daytime temperatures
range from 20 C to 35 C (68 F to 100 F). Evenings are cool, requiring a light sweater or
jacket. Winter temperatures vary from +5 C to -30 C (40 F to -35 F). Average annual
rainfall of 245 mm ensure lush gardens, parks, and golf courses. In winter, snowfall
is sufficient to encourage many winter sports.
Currency Exchange
The currency system is based on dollars and cents. U.S. currency can be exchanged
at any bank, credit union or trust company. Most businesses accept U.S. currency
at the current exchange rate.
Liquor Laws
The minimum age for consumption of alcohol in Saskatchewan is 19 years.
Sales Tax
A federal tax of 7% is levied on all goods and services. A provincial tax of 9% is
assessed on all goods with the exception of food, restaurant meals and children's
clothing.
Time
Saskatchewan observes Central Standard time year round.
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