The City of Thunder Bay is pleased to invite the community to the annual Maamawe Summer Festival & Showcase on Saturday, June 24, 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. “The event will continue as 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 again.”

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 – 9 pm, visitors can enjoy live music performed by local talent. 

Musical line-up includes:

  • Shyanne Havorka
  • Sisters of Turtle Island
  • B the Wiz
  • Animki-N-Makoom
  • Orville Councillor and Company
  • Traditional Flutist – Kyle Councillor
  • Anishnawbe Musician – George Cook

For more information, visit www.thunderbay.ca/MaamaweFestival 

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Contact:       James Wilkinson, Indigenous Liaison, 625-0181, James.Wilkinson@thunderbay.ca