A hundred years ago, the event was banned by the federal government.
Now, the Tulalip Tribes, along with their friends from the Marysville Strawberry Festival, take part in a Native American ceremony that was almost lost forever.
The annual Tulalip Tribes Salmon Ceremony, which was held June 12th in the Tulalip Long House, attracts hundreds of people. The event is designed to formally welcome the first salmon of the season, and it is open to the public.
Beginning in the early afternoon, a ceremonial salmon is brought to shore by canoe. The fish is then honored with ritual song and dance. After being officially hailed as the “King Salmon,” the first fish is treated with great respect as it becomes the center of a feast. Finally the salmon’s bones are returned by canoe to Tulalip Bay, where legend says it will swim back to the Salmon People with news of whether the Tulalip people are worthy of a good fishing season.
This free event is a chance for the community to learn more about Tulalip culture and history, meet tribal members and be greeted by the Marysville Strawberry Festival Royal Ambassadors.
For more information about the Salmon Ceremony, call (360) 651-4000.
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