The Athabasca Tribal Council (ATC) has announced the date for its upcoming 2023 ATC Cultural Festival.
The annual festival returns to Fort McMurray-Wood Buffalo on Sept. 14-17, 2023.
In a statement, ATC President and Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation Chief Allan Adam also announced Indigenous-owned Centerfire Energy Group will be the title sponsor.
“We are very excited to be working with Centerfire to celebrate the Cree and Déne cultures of the region. Our Indigenous community members are overjoyed to gather to share our traditional knowledge and skills. With Centerfire’s partnership, we will be able to create a unique Indigenous and fully immersive experience that everyone will want to share and be a part of.”
Cam Wodham, the Chief Operating Officer of Centerfire, said the 2023 ATC Cultural Festival aligns with the group’s core values.
“We believe the many experiences and knowledge-sharing sessions included in this unique festival are something that should be cherished by all participants who have the opportunity to attend, and we look forward to seeing everyone there.”
Indigenous artists interested in leading a workshop, performing, or presenting at the festival may apply on its website.
The deadline for applications is March 31, 2023.
More than 10,000 guests attended the 2022 festival.
ATC CEO Karla Buffalo said they got to experience what Indigenous culture is all about.
“The region is home to people from all over the world. We are delighted to welcome all people to learn, share, and experience the connection to the land our Indigenous communities have and celebrate the cultural revitalization that takes place at the Festival.”
Events for the ATC Cultural Festival are held across the region, including Snye Point Park in Fort McMurray.
