The Abbotsford Arts Council presents the Aboriginal Arts and Culture Celebration on Saturday, June 4.
The free family event runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Kariton Art Gallery (2387 Ware St.). It offers the public a chance to immerse themselves in native art and traditions, as well as the opportunity to watch aboriginal artists create their work live on site.
The event will also feature traditional Sto:lo storytellers, including Sonny McHalsie (Naxaxalhts’i), a cultural adviser and historian who has been featured in documentaries for the CBC, APTN, and Omni TV.
The Matsqui First Nation youth drummers will open the celebration along with speaker Darren Charlie (Qwetoselten), a well-known drummaker and owner and operator of Sasquatch Drums.
Also providing traditional aboriginal entertainment will be self-taught native flute player and holistic storyteller Eagle Child.
For those more interested in the present than the past, the Abbotsford Art Council’s artist-in-residence Jay Havens will speak on contemporary First Nations art.
Other centre-stage festivities throughout the day include drummers, Metis fiddlers, jiggers, singers, and dancers.
There will also be a children’s tent offering free activities for kids such as crafting stations, face painting, and games. Bannock and smoked salmon will be available for purchase at the artisan tents.
The goal of the celebration is to bring the community together to showcase aboriginal art, culture and traditions.
“The Arts Council is excited for the chance to host such a great cultural event,” said Sophia Suderman, executive director of the Abbotsford Arts Council.
“We really want to help build a community that recognizes and supports both our artists and our diversity.”
For more information, visit abbotsfordartscouncil.com or call 604-852-9358.