Author: Kim Kalliber

Spirit of Standing Rock lives on in ‘The Sacred Stone Camp’

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

The gentle hum of conversation filled the Hibulb Cultural Center’s longhouse room on the afternoon of November 1, as community members gathered to celebrate the first day of Native American Heritage Month. At the center of it all was Rose Rae, an Indigenous author of Paiute, Mayan and Japanese heritage. Her newest children’s book, The Sacred Stone Camp, brings the spirit of Standing Rock to life.

Surrounded by cedar walls and the warm glow of soft lighting, Rose captivated the audience with her reading as she retold the historic Water Protector movement through the eyes of a child. Her words flowed like the rivers she spoke of, carrying messages of unity, land stewardship, and intergenerational strength.

“The Sacred Stone Camp is a love letter to our Native youth,” Rose shared. “So many of our children only know that something big happened at Standing Rock, but not what it meant. I wanted to give them a story that shows the beauty, courage, and prayer behind that movement.

To fully appreciate the children’s story book, it helps to remember what the Sacred Stone Camp truly was. In April 2016, members of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and their allies established the camp along the banks of the Cannonball River in North Dakota. It began as a small prayer camp led by women and elders to protect the Tribe’s water and sacred sites from the proposed Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL), a massive oil pipeline slated to cross beneath the Missouri River, the Tribe’s main source of drinking water.

What started as a handful of tents and teepees quickly grew into a global movement. Tens of thousands of Native and non-Native allies joined the Water Protectors at Standing Rock, uniting under the cry of “Mni Wiconi” (Lakota for “Water is Life”). The camp became a living symbol of Indigenous sovereignty, environmental protection, and collective prayer. Though law enforcement eventually cleared the encampments, the spirit of the Sacred Stone Camp endures.

“The Sacred Stone Camp is also my way of carrying forward the legacy of LaDonna BraveBull (Standing Rock Sioux Tribe). She opened her land, her home to the Water Protectors at pivotal time during the NO DAPL movement,” explained Rose. “That was just her nature, to give and to open her arms and her doors to everyone. She taught me everything I know about walking in harmony with Mother Earth. After she passed away in 2021, it became really important to me to honor her in this way.”

The forty-page book, illustrated in stunning watercolor by Aly McKnight (Shoshone-Bannock Tribes), follows a young Lakota girl named Wičháȟpi (Lakota for Star), who travels with her family to the camps along the Missouri River. Through her eyes, readers experience teepees rising, traditional songs echoing, and the heart-stirring call of Mni Wiconi(Water is Life). Vividly illustrated with Earth-toned art, The Sacred Stone Camp bridges generations by teaching children that caring for the land and water is both an ancestral duty and a modern necessity.

“Representation like this is so important,” said book reading attendee, Tulalip tribal member Zenitha Jimicum. She’s carved out a career in the local education sector, working for Marysville School District before joining the Tribe’s education division.  “Our children need to see themselves reflected in the stories they read. This particular story can also empower the youngest and smallest among us to stand up for what they believe in and to stand up for what is right.”

For those in attendance, like Zenitha, the afternoon’s literary event opening Native American Heritage Month was a reaffirmation of cultural storytelling and shared identity. By the event’s end, the longhouse space was filled with gratitude and inspiration. Rose signed copies of her book for families, offering gentle words of encouragement to readers who shared their dreams of making an impact one day, like the Water Protectors.

Like the empowering messages embedded in her children’s book, the words shared by Rose Rae at Hibulb set the tone for a month dedicated to honoring Native heritage. A month where the connection between people and land continues to be celebrated, one story at a time.

The Sacred Stone Camp. Written by Rae Rose and illustrated by Aly McKight is available for purchase at most major bookstores and online for $18.99.

Tulalip Health introduces new Aquatic Physical Therapy program

By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News 

Physical therapy has long been proven to help individuals regain strength, mobility, and independence, particularly after an injury or surgery. However, recent studies indicate that aquatic physical therapy can enhance these benefits even further. The buoyancy of water reduces stress on joints, making movement easier and less painful, while the resistance naturally strengthens muscles and improves balance. Research published in the JAMA Network Open found that patients who participated in aquatic therapy experienced longer-lasting relief from chronic pain and improved mobility compared to those who received traditional land-based therapy. Water’s hydrostatic pressure also improves circulation and stability, allowing participants to move freely and safely while rebuilding confidence in their bodies.

That same philosophy of movement through healing water is now being offered to Tulalip community members through the new Aquatic Physical Therapy program led by physical therapist Agnes Borjal of the Tulalip Health Clinic. The program, held at the Stanwood YMCA, represents a thoughtful blend of science, accessibility, and cultural connection.

Agnes explained that the decision to host the program in Stanwood was made after carefully evaluating several nearby facilities. “My background with aquatic physical therapy is that I had been working at the Everett YMCA with Providence Physical Therapy, and I created the aquatic program there,” she said. “The amenities were essentially the reason why we chose Stanwood. We originally tried to get the Everett locale, but they had so many programs, and I didn’t want our elders or patients to feel rushed to participate in their aquatic program. Then we looked at the Marysville Y, but it didn’t have the riverwalk or stairs into the pool space. The Stanwood YMCA mirrored what I had created before at Everett, and I knew patients would feel more comfortable with that kind of timing.”

Her passion for water therapy runs deeper than convenience or logistics. It is rooted in understanding how water connects to the Tulalip community’s identity. “Learning about the history of the Tulalip Tribes, I’m essentially an outsider. I’m Indigenous to my culture, which is the Philippines, but learning about the Coast Salish tribes and how water was so fundamental in their life, I felt like pool therapy would be so meaningful as a medium,” she said. “Water is healing. We talk about movement being medicine, but in my 20 years as a therapist, I’ve learned that the medium of water brings its own properties into that healing space. I love that historic background for the tribe.”

When Agnes joined the Tulalip Health Clinic, she saw an opportunity to expand the integrative health program to include aquatic therapy. “Coming onto the team, I loved the direction the clinic was taking,” she said. “They had this holistic vision of Native health, healing, Reiki, massage therapy, acupuncture, and physical therapy, and I wanted to bring in another aspect for our skilled PT services. I asked, ‘Have you considered aquatic physical therapy?’ because of chronic pain. At my previous clinic, we successfully transitioned many of our chronic pain patients into aquatic programs, not just for the physical benefits, but also for the social ones. Group sessions foster connections and promote wellness beyond just recovery. Since Tulalip already had partnerships with the YMCA, it made sense to create this bridge for patients to feel safe and supported in that space.”

Each aquatic therapy session begins on land at the Tulalip Health Clinic, where a physician’s referral helps determine treatment needs. “You’ll see me on land first because our goal is always to perform better on land,” Agnes said. “The first visit is a session in the clinic, and then we move into the water. We do warm-ups, balance and endurance exercises, and cool-downs, just like on land. However, underwater, we can also perform manual therapy, which is really enjoyable. Patients can experience weightless posture, and their joint and muscle tensions release in a totally different way.”

The program is designed for individuals facing chronic pain, arthritis, mobility challenges, or those recovering from surgery. “It’s great for people with multiple joint pain, chronic pain issues, or balance problems, and for anyone who has a high fall risk or struggles to exercise on land,” Agnes said. “Because a physician prescribes the therapy, it’s covered through insurance for Tulalip Health Clinic patients.”

Currently, the Aquatic Physical Therapy program is exclusively available to Tulalip tribal members who receive care through the Tulalip Health Clinic. Because it’s a medically prescribed service rather than a public exercise class, participants are referred directly by their healthcare providers.

Since the sessions take place at the Stanwood YMCA, about a 25-minute drive from Tulalip, transportation can be a consideration for some patients. Currently, there is no formal shuttle or group transportation in place, although the idea has been discussed among clinic staff and community programs.

“Right now, our physical therapy patients are getting to the Stanwood YMCA on their own,” Agnes explained. “There have been early discussions about possible transportation support through the senior program or community health, but since the program is still new, patients are currently responsible for arranging their own rides.”

Since its recent launch, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. “They’ve loved it,” Agnes said with a smile. “Usually, sessions start one-on-one, then move into duet or group sessions. I think the biggest thing is that people are learning how their bodies respond to active recovery. I’ve seen so much improvement, especially among patients preparing for surgery. Some are waiting on knee replacements and tell me how much better they feel just being able to move their whole body again.”

The partnership with the Stanwood YMCA has also been strong. “They’ve been so welcoming and kind,” Agnes said. “The staff and regular members are supportive, and I’ve had patients say how comfortable they feel there. Some people even ask if they can join our sessions, but I remind them it’s exclusive for Tulalip Health Connect patients, which is kind of neat because it shows how visible and valued the program is becoming.”

When asked how she measures success, Agnes didn’t hesitate. “It’ll come from our patients, their outcomes, how they feel treated, and how their recovery carries forward,” she said. “Our goal is to help them become independent with a mindful movement program for themselves. The true testament is when they can go back to their normal routines, gardening, fishing, preparing their boats, without worrying about pain holding them back.”

For anyone hesitant to try aquatic therapy, her message is simple. “This is an environment meant to help your body feel lighter and freer,” she said. “Let the water support you. Let it help you find movement again.”

Agnes hopes this new program will become a lasting part of Tulalip’s larger health and wellness journey. “I think this is one of those things that can help inspire,” she said. “Learning about the Coast Salish tribes and their water connection, I see how resilient the Tulalip people are, always doing their best for their community. This program is a reflection of that. We just want to do our best by the people, following the Tribe’s vision, mission, and values.”

Children of the Setting Sun founder visits Tulalip Heritage

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

At 71, Lummi Nation elder and longtime storyteller Darrell Hillaire carries a lifetime of wisdom earned through leadership and community work. He served on Lummi’s board of directors for 15 years, including time as Chairman, before opting to turn his vision strictly towards storytelling and empowering the next generation. 

On Tuesday, November 4, he journeyed to Tulalip after accepting the lead speaker role for the most recent Season of Healing event. Nearly ten hours before his evening gig at the Gathering Hall, Darrell made a special guest appearance at Heritage High School’s morning circle.

Inside the high school’s common area, students and staff gathered to hear from the highly respected elder. Darrell’s presence filled the room with calm authority and a storyteller’s warmth as he spoke about identity, healing, and our shared responsibility of carrying the culture forward. 

Through Children of the Setting Sun Productions, the Bellingham-based nonprofit he founded, Darrell has made it his mission to amplify Native voices and platform Coast Salish culture through film, performance, and digital storytelling. His work blends traditional Coast Salish teachings with modern media tools, ensuring that Native stories continue to educate and inspire future generations.

“It strengthens us to know that we carry these gifts passed down from countless generations. Now, it’s our responsibility to use these gifts to better our people,” Darrell told the students. “Children of the Setting Sun creates and shares stories of our people. We feel by sharing these stories that we can fulfill our responsibilities to our ancestors.

“As you learn who you are and where you come from, you begin to understand the power of your story, the power that’s inside you,” he continued. “That’s what we do. We share stories that strengthen, stories that heal.”

For half an hour, Heritage students listened attentively as the Lummi elder spoke from the heart, weaving together personal experience and cultural insight. He emphasized that every young person has the ability and responsibility to shape the future of their people through action, compassion, and connection.

“We are all in this healing journey together. No one is exempt,” he said. “As you grow older and experience more of the world, eventually you will learn that the work you do for your people will be the most rewarding and fulfilling currency you’ll ever earn.”

His words carried the gravity of a lifetime dedicated to service and the generosity of an elder still eager to teach. Darrell encouraged the youth to lead with humility and generosity, to share what they have, and to remember that true strength lies in giving back. “Learn how to share, how to give,” he said. “That’s the foundation of who we are.”

As the guest speaker’s visit concluded, Heritage students reflected on the rarity of hearing from a respected elder who has walked the path of leadership and cultural preservation. Darrell’s message that healing begins with identity and community struck a chord with several students in particular, three underclassmen who were willing to share what the elder’s words meant to them. “The part that spoke to me most was how he took a big risk to quit is day job in order to follow his lifelong dream. And even though it seemed difficult to achieve, he’s received support from other people and organizations who believe in his dream, too,” shared Jael Adame, 15-year-old Heritage sophomore “I’m native to Mexico. Coming to the United States was a big dream for me. Now that I’m here and have the opportunity to get an education, I want to go to Harvard and become an immigration lawyer. That way I can use my education and my own experience to help other families not just in Mexico but other countries, too, who also dream of being in United States.” 

Fellow Heritage sophomore, 16-years-old Iris Nunez shared, “Referencing how important it is to know who you are and where you come from, that was the part I’ll remember most. I’m still learning where exactly I come from. It’s difficult to do that because of the limited knowledge my family knows and the even more limited knowledge that was recorded. But I’m determined to find out as much as I can.”

Clearly, Jael and Iris absorbed their elder’s teachings about identity, giving, and collective healing, not as distant lessons but as living guidance meant for them. Yet, it may be that the youngest in the room, 14-year-old freshman Janessa Sabbas, who came away being the most empowered of them all. 

“My dad teaches me songs and dances because he tells me it’s my responsibility to pass them down to future generations,” explained Janessa. “So when Darrell spoke about keeping our traditions and our ways alive because if we don’t, then they’ll disappear forever. I felt like he was talking to me, like my dad.

“I dream of visiting all my Indigenous homelands and traditional territories when I’m older,” she added. “Darrell empowered me to follow that dream, no matter how hard it may be, because finding that knowledge is key to healing my identity…the identity my ancestors had stripped away generations ago. So, yeah, that’s my dream.”   

And what a bold, beautiful dream it is. 

Samuel Kame Williams

Samuel Kame Williams was born on October 30, 2025, and transitioned to be with the ancestors that day. Though only here for a short time, Samuel blessed his family with his peaceful, loving presence. Samuel was born to Cary Michael Williams and Shelbi May Hatch in Seattle, Washington. His adoring brother is Carymichael Kamekona Williams. His parents and brother anticipated his arrival with love and excitement and now think of him with love and gratitude. Samuel will remain a blessing to his family, and we look forward to when we are reunited on the other side.

The family finds peace in the beautiful visions of Baby Samuel being embraced by his grandmothers and grandfathers in heaven. We know he is held in love and surrounded by laughter, stories and songs. We love the thought of him getting all the beautiful teachings of our people. Samuel came to strengthen our connection to the ancestors. When you see the light glimmer on Tulalip Bay, smell the cedar trees in the woods, see a baby qal̕qaləx̌ič (killer whale) jumping out of the water, think of Samuel and the other ancestors, and smile. 

ʔəsx̌aƛ̕tubicid čəd, Samuel. Aloha, Samuel. átawiishamash, Samuel. We love you forever, Samuel! 

Samuel is being accompanied into the happy hunting grounds by many loving ancestors: Great-great-great-grandma Celum Young, and Great-great-great-grandpa Cary Morales; Great-great-grandparents Bernie kia kia and Dolores Gobin, and Auntie Cherie Gobin, and Great-great-grandma Theresa Fiander; Great-grandma Genevieve Kona Williams; Great-grandfathers Art Hatch, Richard Craig, and James Arnold; Great-grandma Gloria Arnold, Auntie Debbie, Uncle Greg, Uncle Jason, and Uncle Rocky. Special auntie and uncles KJ Driscoll, Kanim Posey and Kyle Tran-Jones are also welcoming our Samuel. 

Samuel is survived by his loving parents and his brother; his grandparents Anthony and Chelsea Craig, Mark and Nicole Hatch, Neil and Monique Steffins, and Andy Williams, Sr.; his great-grandparents, Herman Williams, Sr., Lorraine Hatch, Mike Alva and Patti Gobin, and Kathryn Fiander Craig. Aunties Celum Hatch and Kamaya Craig; Uncles Andrew Williams, Jr., Thomas Williams, Lucas Williams, Kamiakin Craig, Sterling Hatch, Mark Hatch II and numerous other loving aunts, uncles, and cousins. 

Funeral services: November 5, 2025, 10:00am at the Tulalip Gathering Hall. Burial at Mission Beach Cemetery. Tulalip, Washington.

Our Prayer for Samuel

Niimí Tamanwiɬá,

Kw’aɬanúusha mash íchɨn ayáyat ɬkw’íyaw. 

Kw’aɬanúusha mash inmíyaw waḵ’íshwityaw.

Kw’aɬanúusha mash inmíyaw ttawax̱tmamíyaw. 

Ánaknuwik Niimí tiináwitnan. 

Ánaknuwik Niimí myánashmaman 

Ánaknuwik Niimí Samuel.

Kw’aɬanúusha mash niimíyaw tiináwityaw. 

Ílaḵayx̱yanim waḵ’íshwit, Tamanwiɬá.

Our Creator,

Gratitude to You for this beautiful day.

Gratitude to You for my life.

Gratitude to You for my family.

Protect our old ways.

Protect our children.

Protect our Samuel. 

Gratitude to You for our way of life.

Bless my life, Creator.

Under rain and Friday night lights, Hawks honor their seniors

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

The rain came down in steady sheets during Tulalip Heritage’s second to last home game of the regular season. Local news outlets reported it was the Pacific Northwest’s wettest day in nearly two years, but that historic downpour didn’t stop the celebration. 

With umbrellas out and hearts full, the Hawks community gathered to honor their senior football players and cheerleaders under the bright lights. Families and friends filled the stands despite the inclement weather.

Proud momma bear Winona Shopbell-Fryberg shared, “It’s senior night for our son, Tokala Black Tomahawk. I can’t believe this is his last year of school and sports. He started playing when he was just 6-years-old. On that first team were two of his fellow Heritage teammates. They even all went to Arizona and won a youth championship together. It’s just been amazing watching them all grow into young men.”

In the home bleachers, parents and guardians, aunties and uncles huddled beneath ponchos and blankets, smiling as their seniors played their butt’s off on the Tulalip Bay gridiron. Laughter echoed between bursts of rain as the smallest fans, younger siblings and baby cousins, waved handmade signs celebrating their heroes.

By the game’s final whistle, the scoreboard didn’t matter nearly as much as the spirit shown that October 24 night. Try as it might, the rain couldn’t wash away the pride of Tulalip Heritage. If anything, it made it shine even brighter.

“To my son, Ryland Dumont, you make us so proud!” exclaimed Melody Dumont. She also serves as Heritage’s lead football trainer. “These last few years have been a blast watching [our boys] showcase leadership and strength on and off the football field.”

After the game, each senior was escorted onto the field by loved ones to be recognized for their dedication and contribution     to Tulalip Heritage’s football program. The sound of cheers mixed with the rhythm of rainfall as names were called from the P.A. system. Each player and cheerleader received flowers and hugs from proud family members and coaches.

“Rain or shine, these boys have shown real grit and grind all season long,” said Heritage head coach Shawn Custis as he coordinated a giant team photo with each senior’s support system at the 50-yard line. “This really is a great group of kids. I’m honored to be their coach.”

With the regular season winding down and playoffs about to start, the Heritage Hawks look forward to getting all their players back on the field. The coaching staff is hopeful, with a fully engaged depth chart, the Hawks can soar into the win column again in 2025.

Ready to learn Lushootseed? There’s an app for that

Screenshot

By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News 

Learning a new language can often feel daunting. You might find yourself asking, where do I start? How do I stay consistent? The Tulalip Tribes’ Lushootseed Department has looked closely at those very questions and found a way to help. Their solution is something both modern and deeply cultural: a new Tulalip Lushootseed App, created to make learning our traditional language easier, more engaging, and accessible for everyone.

As someone who’s been exploring the app myself, I can say it feels like a bridge between the past and the present, a tool that makes Lushootseed learning not only possible but also enjoyable. The app greets you with clear categories: greetings, family, foods, animals, and weather. Each section includes spoken examples from fluent speakers, making it easy to hear pronunciation and rhythm —often the most complex parts of learning a new language.

The design itself feels welcoming. Real photos of community members and cultural items replace the stock images you might see in a typical language app, grounding each lesson in Tulalip’s own identity. There’s also a section called “Culture Notes,” where short explanations and visuals offer a deeper understanding of the teachings behind certain words. It’s not just about memorizing vocabulary; it’s about learning the meaning and story carried within each word.

One of my favorite parts is how interactive it feels. The app includes quizzes, audio games, and a search bar that lets you look up any word you’ve heard in conversation or at a community event. For example, I was able to find the Lushootseed word for “friend” quickly, listen to how it’s said, and then test myself in one of the mini-games. These small learning moments add up, and the repetition helps the words stick.

What stands out most is the app’s flexibility. You don’t need to set aside a whole class or schedule time with a teacher to learn; you can open it whenever you have a few spare minutes, while you’re drinking your coffee, sitting in the car, or winding down in the evening. Every word you learn, even just one a day, strengthens your connection to Tulalip’s language and heritage.

The Lushootseed Department has long been dedicated to revitalizing dxʷləšucid, the language of this land, through classroom lessons, songs, signage, and storytelling. This app is the next natural step in that journey, a way to reach people of all ages and learning styles, including those who might not have had the chance to take in-person classes.

For anyone who has ever thought, “I’d love to learn Lushootseed, but I don’t know where to start, this app is your invitation. It’s available now for free on both the Apple App Store and Google Play. Once downloaded, it’s as simple as pressing play and repeating after the speaker. Start small, learn a few words, and grow from there.

Language is more than communication; it’s a reflection of who we are as a people. The Lushootseed app ensures that our words, our songs, and our stories can continue to be shared, spoken, and heard, no matter where we are.

Upcoming events at Tulalip

By Kalvin Valdillez, Tulalip News

Summertime usually steals all the shine when talking about Tulalip events and cultural gatherings. Which is understandable, considering many of these big-name events are practiced outdoors, such as the Stick Games Tournament, the Salmon Ceremony, Boom City’s Fourth of July festivities, the War Canoe Races, and the intertribal Canoe Journey. 

But the autumn and winter months are jampacked with celebrations, activities, and gatherings too. Especially this year. Below you will find over 15 upcoming events happening at Tulalip over the next couple months. This includes many holiday themed get togethers as well, ranging from Jack Skellington all the way to Sandy Claws. 

So, make sure to jot these dates down on your personal calendars or upload them to your digital apps because we are in for a fun holiday season at Tulalip!

Trunk or Treat. Sunday, October 26at 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. at Boom City

Local nonprofit, Together We’re Better, brings back their popular Halloween-time event! If you’re looking for a safe and fun place to show off your costumes and do a bit of trick-or-treating, be sure to drop by Boom City and check out dozens of spooky themed trunks and displays.

Problem Gambling Family Night. Wednesday, October 29 at 5:00 – 6:30 p.m., Tulalip Family Services

The Tulalip Problem Gambling program invites you and your loved ones to their Family Night event. All ages welcome. Dinner provided.

From the event flyer – “Learn about problem gambling, how to support your loved one, and about healing from the impact of gambling addiction. There will be time for Q&A.”

Spooktacular Open House. Thursday, October 30 at 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Tulalip Youth Center

Join the Tulalip Education Division this Halloween Eve for a movie night, trick or treating, family photos, and pumpkin painting. There will also be tours of the Teen Center campus as well as educational information booths for Tribal families.

The Sacred Stone Camp live reading. Saturday, November 1 at 1:00 p.m. at the Hibulb Cultural Center

Local Indigenous Author, Rae Rose, will be dropping by the Hibulb Cultural Center for a reading of her new children’s book, The Sacred Stone Camp, which centers around LaDonna BraveBull Allard as she gathered water protectors to protest against the Dakota Access Pipeline.

Ballot Party. Tuesday, November 4 at 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., Tulalip Admin Room 162

By now, you should’ve received your ballot and voter’s pamphlet in the mail. Be sure to fill that out and bring it on into the Admin building on Election Day. At the Ballot Party, you can register to vote, cast your vote, and enjoy some light refreshments and good company while you perform your civic duty. A raffle will also be held for all party goers!

Season of Healing – November Gatherings. Tuesday, November 4

This year’s second Season of Healing session of the year will feature both a lunchtime lecture as well as a dinner and healing ceremony. The November Season of Healing gatherings will be focused on Honoring our Elders and will feature keynote speakers, James LaBelle Sr. & Susan LaBelle. Lunch will be from 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. in room 162 of the Admin building. Dinner and Ceremony will be held at the Gathering Hall and will begin at 5:30 p.m.

Flu & Covid Vaccine Pop Up. Wednesday, November 5, 12:00 – 5:00 p.m., Tulalip Health Clinic

Protect yourself, your family, and your community. Vaccines will be available for community members of all ages. For more details, please contact (360) 716-4511.

Holiday Native Bazaar. November 14 & 15 at 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. at the Tulalip Gathering Hall

This highly anticipated event continues to grow year after year. Dozens of Tulalip artists and entrepreneurs will be in attendance selling the likes of regalia, jewelry, weavings, tasty treats and much more! The first weekend of the Holiday Native Bazaar will be held at the Gathering Hall. 

Holiday Round Dance. Friday, November 21 (Time TBD), Everett Community College

Stay tuned as more information about the Holiday Round Dance will soon be released, including Grand Entry time! Below is a quick summary of the annual gathering.

“A night of community, culture, and connection at Everett Community College’s Round Dance, hosted by the First Nations Club & Diversity & Equity Center! An evening of honoring traditions, building relationships, and celebrating Indigenous resilience. Dinner will be provided — come hungry and ready to share a meal. Local vendors — support Indigenous artists, makers, and small businesses. All singers welcome! Everyone welcome!”

Lights & Ice Festival

Washington’s largest and most dazzling holiday lights display makes its return for the third consecutive year this November 22 and will run all the way through January 11. If you have yet to experience Lights & Ice at Quil Ceda Village (Tulalip Bingo, Tulalip Resort Casino, Tulalip Amphitheater), we definitely encourage you and your family to pay a visit this holiday season. Below are some important dates to remember for a handful of Lights & Ice events this year. Every weekend during Lights & Ice, between 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., there will be special guests in attendance including Santa and Mrs. Claus, the Grinch, and Buddy the Elf. 

  • Lighting Ceremony – Saturday, November 22 at 4:30 p.m.
  • Tribal Night – Tuesday, November 25 at 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
  • Holiday Weekend Market- November 28 & 29 at 12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Tulalip Thanksgiving Luncheon. Thursday,  November 27 12:00-2:00 p.m., Tulalip Resort Orca Ballroom 

This event is for Tulalip tribal members only. 

Tulalip Day. Friday, November 28

Celebrate your favorite Tribal member(s)! Admin & other Tribal facilities will be closed in observance of the holiday.

Holiday Native Bazaar . December 5 & 6 at 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. at the Tulalip Youth Center

Missed the first weekend of the Holiday Bazaar? Need to cop a few last-minute Christmas gifts? Want to treat yo’ self with some fine Indigenous craftsmanship? Look no further than the Holiday Native Bazaar! Please note that this weekend’s event will be held at the Teen Center.

Season of Healing – December Gatherings, Tuesday, December 9

The December Season of Healing theme is ‘Building a Strong Foundation’ and will feature guest speaker, Camie Goldhammer, the Founding Executive Director of Hummingbird Indigenous Family Services. The lunch series will be held at the Admin building, room 162, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. And the dinner and honoring ceremony will take place at the Gathering Hall, starting at 5:30 p.m.

MSD Indian Education Department & Tulalip Education Division Holiday Powwow. Saturday, December 20 Grand Entry at 5:00 p.m., Francis J. Sheldon Gymnasium

Where Christmas and culture collide! The fan-favorite holiday powwow draws close to 1,000 people each holiday season. In addition to the soothing sound of jingle dresses and the big reverberation of the round drum, the powwow will also feature Santa’s Workshop, where MSD students can pick out a toy of their liking upon meeting good ol’ St. Nick. Numerous vendors will be in attendance as well, so if you are a last-minute shopper and find yourself still needing to buy presents five days before Christmas, you can pick up a few items at the powwow!