Saskatoon, a small town in the heart of the Prairies, is the largest city in Saskatchewan. Far from the large urban centres, it offers a quality of life that its inhabitants claim, between countryside and city. However, this agglomeration is experiencing one of the strongest growths in Canada and this provincial pace is changing... Relaxed and friendly atmosphere. It is certainly not a trendy city: to live in Saskatoon, you have to love nature, parks, snow, calm and a cool attitude. And that's what makes him so charming. The origin of the city is very particular: in 1882, the Temperance Colonization Society, a Puritan group who wanted to flee the "depravity" of Toronto to found a "dry" community (without alcohol is heard) is assigned some twenty-one portions of land south of the Saskatchewan River, between what is today Warman and Dundum. A real colony was established on the present site of Saskatoon in 1883. In 1885, it was the North West Rebellion that saw the Canadian government troops and the Métis group of Louis Riel, whose intention was to found an independent state in Saskatchwen, confront each other. This confrontation will end in a victory for the government forces and will leave historic sites like the Marr Residence. It was only in 1906 that Saskatoon became a city worthy of the name, with 4500 inhabitants. It has developed thanks to the exploitation of oil and other mineral resources, but also because it is a "hub city": its ideal central position has made it a commercial hub in the country. The city has experienced exceptional growth since 2000 and now has more than 220,000 inhabitants. The city has a limited but correct bus service. To know the lines, look here. Cycling is easy all year round, it's ideal. The trails at Pleasant Hill or Riversdale are well developed and enjoyable to practice. The interest of small towns is that it is very easy to get around and traffic jams are rare: 45 minutes is the maximum time required to cross the city. Saskatoon, a human-sized city with a friendly atmosphere Saskatoon is a human-sized community that is accessible and welcoming, thanks to the people who live in the surrounding small towns. A touch of urban modernity and a rural cultural background. The city is divided into two parts: West side and East side. The West side, nicknamed the ghetto, would be the place of the crime (the rates are indeed the highest in Canada) and the East side, would be the modern and safe part, where everything happens. That said, this is tending to change as the West Side is beginning to be rehabilitated. Downtown Saskatoon has virtually no residential areas unlike many other Canadian city centres. It is 85% dedicated to commerce and business: shops and offices reign supreme, even if this is tending to change. There's always something going on along the River Landing. The University neighbourhoods, Circle/8th Mall, River Landing or Confederation (also called Confeddo ghetto), are the most lively and pleasant to visit (on foot). You will find nice shops on Broadway and Toontown. Summer Cultural Dynamism The city, despite its small size, boasts an overflowing cultural life. In fact, and especially in summer, Saskatoon is full of events and festivals celebrating theatre and music: Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan (theatre), the Jazz Festival, the Great Plains Comedy Festival, the Saskatoon Fringe Theater Festival, the Saskatoon Flokfest... And most of them are free! Theatre has a special place in Saskatoon, given the number of theatres such as Persephone Theatre, St. James' Refinery and the Saskatchewan Native Theatre Company. And finally, the music: the local music scene is excellent given the small size of the city. You will therefore find many concerts in concert halls (TCU Place, Credit Union Centre) or in one of the many bars and cafés. Good atmosphere guaranteed! Traditions are well preserved in Saskatoon and include many cultural centres: the Ukrainian Museum of Canada, the Diefenbaker Centre, the Gordon Snelgrove Gallery... The Mendel Art Gallery, on the other hand, brings together local, regional and national history and identities. Other more modern galleries are spread throughout the city and offer quality art pieces. Find Planet S, a free newspaper, which informs about all the events that take place in the city.