JUNEAU, Alaska (KINY) — In 1982, the fledgling Native nonprofit Sealaska Heritage Institute held its first dance-and-culture festival, named Celebration, to honor and preserve the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian cultures of Southeast Alaska. At that time, Native people were emerging from a long period of cultural oppression imposed by Western influences, and there was a growing concern that younger generations were losing touch with their ancestral songs and dances. A few hundred Native people gathered in Juneau for the inaugural event, unaware that they were sparking a cultural renaissance that would echo across the region.
Before European contact, the peoples of the Northwest Coast regularly held traditional ceremonies filled with singing, dancing, formal oratory, and feasting. However, as the region’s economy shifted to a cash-based system, many Native traditions began to falter. Dance, song, traditional oratory, and clan protocol were in danger of being lost. Recognizing this threat, Native elders conceived Celebration as a means to reunite Native people and showcase their rich traditions and customs.
Today, Celebration is one of Alaska’s largest cultural events, drawing thousands of people to Juneau for the four-day festival. It is the world’s largest gathering of Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian people, transforming the city into a vibrant hub of Native culture. The biennial event is scheduled for early June in even years, and it is open to all.
Celebration has grown significantly since its inception. What began as a small gathering now includes a variety of associated events that enrich the festival’s cultural offerings. These events include a Juried Art Show and Competition, which highlights the artistic talents within the Native community, and a Juried Youth Art Exhibit, showcasing the creativity of younger generations.
One of the most heartwarming events is the Toddler Regalia Review, where the youngest members of the community proudly wear traditional attire, instilling a sense of cultural pride from an early age. The Indigenous Fashion Show is another highlight, featuring contemporary interpretations of traditional regalia, demonstrating the dynamic and evolving nature of Native fashion.
The festival also includes a Native Artist Market, providing a platform for artisans to sell their work, from traditional crafts to modern pieces. This market not only offers economic opportunities but also promotes cultural exchange and appreciation. Native food contests celebrate the culinary traditions of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples, offering attendees a taste of authentic Native cuisine.
The impact of Celebration extends beyond the festival itself. It has become a powerful symbol of cultural resilience and revival, inspiring other Native communities and organizations to undertake similar initiatives. The event fosters a sense of unity and pride among participants, reinforcing the importance of preserving and perpetuating their cultural heritage.
For four days every other June, the streets of Juneau come alive with the vibrant sights and sounds of Native culture. People of all ages, dressed in the signature regalia of clans from throughout Southeast Alaska and beyond, fill the city. Traditional songs and dances echo through the streets, while arts and crafts, food, and the sounds of local Native languages create a rich cultural tapestry.
Celebration is not only a cultural event but also an economic boon for the region. A 2012 study revealed that each Celebration generates an estimated economic impact of $2,000,000. The event draws about 5,000 people, including more than 2,000 dancers, with thousands more watching online.
Sealaska Heritage Institute has announced that the next Celebration will be held in person from June 5-8, 2024, in Juneau. The lead dance group will be the Dakhká Khwáan Dancers (People of the Inland), who will set the tone for the festival with their performances.
Celebration remains a public event, welcoming everyone who wishes to attend. This inclusivity helps bridge cultural gaps, promoting understanding and appreciation of Native traditions among a broader audience. For many non-Native attendees, Celebration offers a unique opportunity to experience the richness of Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian cultures firsthand.
As Celebration continues to grow, it stands as a testament to the vision and determination of those who first gathered in 1982. The festival not only honors the past but also looks to the future, ensuring that the songs, dances, and traditions of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples will continue to thrive for generations to come.
In an era where cultural heritage is increasingly recognized for its value, Celebration shines as an example of how communities can come together to revive, sustain, and celebrate their unique identities. As the next Celebration approaches, anticipation builds, promising another unforgettable chapter in Alaska’s ongoing cultural renaissance.
