Gathering of Nations showcases traditional cooking techniques

Robert McCallum from Pelican Narrows was overseeing the preparation of the battered walleye. He said he enjoys coming to events like the Gathering of Nations.

“It’s good to be with different people you don’t know,” he said, acknowledging the four-day event draws people from all Prince Albert Grand Council communities, including Dene and Cree. Past gatherings have pulled in 1,500 to 2,000 people a day.

Meanwhile, Willis McKay from Red Earth Cree Nation had the task of cutting up moose meat. After he’s done, the meat will be hung up and allowed to dry out for two to four hours.

“I used to watch my mom doing this,” he said. “This is our tradition.”

Explaining that the moose is very special to Indigenous people and represents food for the summer and the winter, McKay said none of it gets wasted.

“What we harvest goes to the community and places like this where we share with other First Nations.”

Serving up some soup. (Image Credit: Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

The event wraps up on Friday and is open to the public.

Visitors can take in traditional food, powwow, hand games, drumming and singing, arts and crafts, cultural workshops, youth activities, talent competitions, jigging and gospel singing. Cultural demonstrations and workshops, including birch bark work, beadwork and traditional paddle making — run throughout the week.

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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

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by Nigel Maxwell

Gathering of Nations showcases traditional cooking techniques

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