HOULTON, Maine — For those who have ever wondered what it was like to be a Maliseet or simply curious about the Native American way of life, the Houlton Band of Maliseets will hold its annual 33rd annual Recognition Day celebration this Saturday.
Recognition Day is held each year to commemorate the anniversary of HBMI becoming a federally recognized tribe. On Oct. 10, 1980, the federal government officially recognized the Houlton Band of Maliseets as a Native American tribe.
“Each year we gather to celebrate our culture and heritage with those from other tribes and the general public,” said Tribal Chief Brenda Commander. “We usually have a big crowd and we are always pleased to have others come join us in our ceremony.”
The event typically draws more than 500 individuals to the tribal lands, located on the Foxcroft Road.
“We invite everyone to come out and experience our culture,” Commander said. “It really has grown tremendously over the years.
Registration begins at 8 a.m., with the opening ceremony following at 10 a.m. with a smudging and pipe ceremony. Smudging is a purification ritual that is traditionally performed before all Native American events. The grand entry, complete with Maliseets dressed in authentic ceremonial clothes, takes place at 11 a.m.
From noon to 4 p.m., children’s games, hayrides, drumming, dancing and live music will be offered, as well as many vendors selling Native American crafts. Food booths will also be available. In addition, a sweat lodge on the banks of the Meduxnekeag River will be erected for a spiritual ceremony.
“The entire day is an opportunity for us to come together and celebrate our culture,” Commander said.
For more information, contact Dayna Boyce at 538-7142.
