The Athabasca Tribal Council (ATC) is celebrating the success of their Cultural Festival this past weekend.
The three-day event, celebrating Cree, Dene and Métis cultures at Snye Point Park, was attended by 10,000 people. The festival also hosted over 700 students who learned about Indigenous practices and traditions.
The event began with a traditional Pipe Ceremony with Elders from across the region. Festivalgoers were treated to traditional foods like Bannock and Moose Stew while having the opportunity to watch events like a Hand Game Tournament, Powwow Dancing, and an Indigenous Fashion Show.
“Seeing the community gather to celebrate our Cree, Dene, and Métis cultures is what the Festival is all about,” says Chief Alan Adam, President of ATC.
“Healing comes in so many ways. Feeling the support from friends and allies who attended the Festival brings with it a strength that is felt by our members.”
ATC says one of the most important aspects of the festival involved Indigenous artists hosting workshops, sharing, and teaching their traditional skills. In total, 32 artists provided 75 workshops, many of which were sold out within hours of opening.
The busy festival continued even with the recent State of Emergency called by ATC.
“It is critical, given the current mental health and addictions crisis that ATC communities are facing, that we focus on rebuilding our culture and language, and ensuring that we have a connection to our land,” said Chief Adam.
“Connecting our youth back to the land, culture, and the teachings of our Elders is what will heal our communities going forward.”
With the 2023 festival now in the books, ATC says they will build upon this success and begin planning next year’s event soon.
