The first Hoobiyee gathering in three years was held at the Pacific National Exhibition in Vancouver on Friday, with thousands of people in attendance.
The event marks the arrival of saak, a type of eulachon fish and a staple of the traditional Nisga’a diet, and the start of a new harvesting season for the Nisga’a Nation.
The Nisga’a Ts’amiks Vancouver Society hosted two days of events, with 14 First Nations from across British Columbia, 600 dancers, and 60 vendors selling clothes, jewelry, and crafts.
Tony Robinson, CEO of Nisga’a Ts’amiks Vancouver Society, said that Hoobiyee allows people to “restore [their roots], getting back to our culture, dancing, and once you hear the drum beats, you’re relaxed.” Robinson expects around 20,000 people to attend over the two days. Connor Moore, a 14-year-old Nisga’a, said that he is “really excited” about the event, particularly the grand entrance and grand finale.
Maximus Stewart-Michell, an 18-year-old Nisga’a attending his first Hoobiyee celebration, said that it means a lot to him to be there because he grew up around potlatches and pow wows. Aiyana Alexcee, a 12-year-old participant who is Nisga’a, Tsimshian, and Haida, said that she enjoys watching people dance and elders having fun.
The Hoobiyee grand finale will take place on Saturday at 9 p.m.
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