PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — After being canceled last year due to the pandemic, the 26th annual Mawiomi of Tribes, hosted by the Aroostook Band of Micmacs, will take place Aug. 27-29.
Mawiomi, which translates to “gathering” in the Micmac language, will feature traditional drumming and dancing ceremonies, powwows, food and craft vendors and a community meal at Spruce Haven in Caribou. The activities focus on celebrating Micmac heritage and allowing tribal and community members to connect through the culture.
On Friday, Aug. 27, the Mawiomi will kick off with a children’s social at 4 p.m. The social will allow children to participate in and learn Micmac social dances.
John Dennis, cultural director for the Aroostook Band of Micmacs, said he got the idea for the new children’s social after learning of a similar event from tribal friends in Canada.
“It helps us continue the culture with the next generation,” Dennis said.
Throughout the day on Aug. 28 and 29, craft vendors will sell handmade items and all attendees will be welcome to watch or participate in the dance circle.
A grand entry ceremony will occur at noon Saturday, during which tribal leaders will honor those who have passed on, local elders and children and tribal veterans. A community meal will be held at 5 p.m. Saturday.
Though Mawiomi is traditionally held during the third weekend in August, Dennis said that event committee members wanted to avoid potential conflicts with Micmac powwows being held in Canada that weekend.
While attendance might be slightly lower due to travel restrictions between the U.S. and Canada, Dennis said that the tribe is encouraging both Native and non-Native community members to come and enjoy the weekend celebrations.
Since all events will be held outside, masks will not be required but still encouraged for any person who wishes to wear one. Dennis noted that social distancing will also be encouraged. To keep the Mawiomi family friendly, guests will not be allowed to bring drugs and alcohol.
Even with concerns surrounding the delta variant of COVID-19, Dennis said that the tribe is remaining cautious but excited for the return of Mawiomi.
“Mawiomi is not only a cultural celebration. It’s about family coming together,” Dennis said. “It’s also about cultural education. I’ve spoken to a lot of people who didn’t know that Mawiomi was for everybody, not just the tribe. But we welcome anyone to come.”
Those who wish to take part in Mawiomi as a food or craft vendor can contact Dennis at 207-764-1972.
