NEWS RELEASE
CITY OF THUNDER BAY
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THUNDER BAY – The City of Thunder Bay is pleased to invite the community to the inaugural Maamawe Summer Festival and Showcase on Saturday, June 25, 12 p.m. – 9 p.m., 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 and 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 p.m. – 9 p.m., 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
