Sealaska Heritage Institute will sponsor the next Celebration June 7-9, 2012 in Juneau. The institute's biennial Juried Art Show and Competition awards ceremony will be held on the evening of June 6 along with a Native Artist Gathering..

Celebration is a major dance-and-culture festival held every two years. First held in 1982, it has become the largest cultural event in the state, drawing thousands of people to the capital. Along with dance performances, it features associated events, including a Juried Art Show and Competition, Native Artist Market, Native Artist Gathering., seaweed and soapberry contests, a Toddler Regalia Review, workshops, lectures and a parade through downtown Juneau.  Celebration 2012 will be led by the Xudzidaa Kwáan Dancers of Angoon (above). Also, for the first time Sealaska, through its subsidiary Haa Aani, will host an Oyster Fest at the SHI lot, across from Sealaska Plaza downtown.

Hotels sometimes fill up soon after this date is released, so SHI encourages people to book rooms early. Please check back for more information. Tlingit National Anthem (text version)