Athabascan dance performance, Festival of Native Arts, Fairbanks Feel the Music Immerse yourself in the rich musical traditions of Alaska Natives through these rhythmic experiences: » Witness captivating performances featuring song, dance, and storytelling at cultural centers all across Alaska. » Visit Bethel in March to attend Cama-I , a three-day song and dance festival of the Yup’ik and Cup’ik people. » Attend the Festival of Native Arts in Fairbanks in February or March for a gathering of all Alaska Native cultural groups and their performing art forms. » At the Midnight Sun Intertribal Powwow in Fairbanks , Alaska Native artists gather together to celebrate community and give thanks through traditional drums, song, and dance. ‘WÁATS’ASDIYEI JOE YATES HAIDA (BOTH FESTIVAL OF NATIVE ARTS) Symbolic Attire As Alaska Natives, traditional regalia worn during our performances holds immense importance. With it, we represent our cultural identities, histories, and ancestral connections. Each intricate bead, vibrantly colored fabric, and symbol carries profound meaning, telling the stories of our people. When we don our regalia, we honor our traditions, express our pride, and carry forward the legacy of our ancestors for future generations to embrace. Beat of the Drum The sacred drumbeat resonates as the heartbeat of Mother Earth, holding spiritual significance for Alaska Natives. A conduit of connecting with the spirit world and invoking ancestral blessings, the drum calls forth unity and strength for its people. Historically, the drum played a vital role in preparing hunters for their expeditions, invoking the spirits, and seeking their guidance and protection. The drum continues to be a ceremonial instrument utilized in » Quyana Alaska in Anchorage and Fairbanks is a cultural celebration put on by the Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN) and has helped restore traditional dances, ensuring they are passed on to future generations. ceremonies, dances, and feasts. Made out of animal hides stretched around wooden frames, some Alaska Native cultures paint detailed designs meaningful to their clans or region. 9
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