The City of Thunder Bay is pleased to invite the community to the inaugural Maamawe Summer Festival & Showcase on Saturday, June 25, 12 pm – 9 pm, at Marina Park. The Festival promotes inclusion, diversity and the well-being of all community members as well as those visiting our region. The Maamawe Summer Festival & Showcase will feature local talent while highlighting the contributions of Indigenous artists in our community.

“The goal is to bring the community together in a good way,” said James Wilkinson, Indigenous Liaison, City of Thunder Bay. “The event will be the start of our own hometown festival with a vision to have it grow each year, encompassing fashion, crafts, education, film and all the other elements our diverse community has to offer. A City-led community celebration, Maamawe – all together, has been a vision 10+ years in the making. We are thrilled to share it with our community this year.”

The idea for a summer festival was formed based on input from community artists and music producers, the City's Indigenous Relations Office, and community members. Activities will include an opening ceremony at 2 pm with prayer and teachings conducted by Elder Beatrice Twance-Hynes, a Tipi and Sacred Fire, Women’s Hand Drum Group with songs and teachings, information booths, food vendors, and crafters. From 3 pm – 9pm, visitors can enjoy live music performed by local talent including: 

  • The Scott Van Teeffelen Band
  • Sara Kae
  • B the Wiz
  • The Ira Johnson Band
  • Orville Councillor and Company
  • Indigenous Flutist – Elmer Atlookan
  • Renowned Artist – Arden Bruyere and his Two Man Trio 

For the full line-up of events visit www.thunderbay.ca/MaamaweSummerFestival

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Contact:       James Wilkinson, Indigenous Liaison, 633-7266, James.Wilkinson@thunderbay.ca