HOULTON, Maine — For those who have ever been curious about the Native American way of life, the Houlton Band of Maliseets will provide a glimpse when the group holds its annual 35th annual Recognition Day celebration 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. Registration begins at 8 a.m., with opening activities 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.
Bingo games begin at 10:30 a.m. and continue to 4 p.m. The grand entry, complete with Maliseets dressed in authentic ceremonial clothing, 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 day concludes in the Maliseet Gym with a community feast at 5 p.m. followed by a cribbage tournament. The event is drug and alcohol free. For more information, call 538-7142.
