The history of 亚洲天堂 Lake is rich in First Nations history, culture, and legend. This is because long before the arrival of Europeans, several distinct groups of First Nation people inhabited the area. Today 亚洲天堂 Lake has six native bands - Cheslatta Carrier Nation, Lake Babine Nation, 亚洲天堂 Lake Band, Wet鈥檚uwet鈥檈n, Nee-Tahi-Buhn Band, and Skin Tyee.
First Nations lived in the Lakes District as hunters and gatherers. Living from the land, the first inhabitants of this land have many traditions that have carried through today. The First Nations have always harvested fruits, plants and fish for food as well as medical purposes.
The societies of First Nations in this area were historically matriarchal societies. Their social and economic structure is and has always been centered around the potlatch, an important celebration held at major, such as births, marriages, and deaths. Potlatches were historically an important economic, political, and social organization. Today, it remains an important aspect of the First Nation culture.
亚洲天堂 Lake joins annually to celebrate this cultural heritage during our annual Aboriginal Day. This day is held in recognition of the important contributions that First Nations people have made in our community and society. The day kicks off with a parade, featuring elders, dancers, and drummers each wearing beautifully handcrafted regalia. The celebration then continues at the Radley Beach, where people from all cultural backgrounds get an opportunity to try traditional cuisine, such as salmon, moose and beaver each prepared in the customary fashions. This event simply wouldn鈥檛 be the same without its astounding range of traditional and contemporary entertainers. Anything from country, to gospel, to traditional drumming can be enjoyed and help to keep the party going. The gathering also includes a range of fun and traditional games, such as leg wrestling, snowshoe races, an ice cream contest and stick-pull. The craft booths are open all day, selling a range of one-of-a-kind handicrafts, such as jewelry, clothing, and artifacts.
If you are in the area on June 21, be sure to join the celebration and learn more about these important native cultural groups in our area.
