TLA-O-QUI-AHT FIRST NATION (TOFINO, B.C.) — Given its debut success in 2023, Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation and its Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks initiative are bringing back its Indigenous tourism experience, naaʔuu (meaning “feast” in Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation language).
This three-hour experience, returning May 24 to 25, June 7 to 8, June 14 to 15, June 22 and June 28 to 29 at the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation-owned Tin Wis Resort, offers ticketed guests the opportunity to enjoy a Tla-o-qui-aht-themed evening, including Tla-o-qui-aht-inspired cuisine and cultural programming.
“Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation’s path forward around our language and cultural resurgence includes events like naaʔuu, delivered by Tla-o-qui-aht people, increasing visitors and locals’ opportunity to gain our nation’s perspective,” says Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks lead Saya Masso.
Paula Amos, Chief Marketing and Development officer at Indigenous Tourism BC, is supporting the return of naaʔuu as a key sponsor, having experienced the culturally enriching event last year.
“The partnership between Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation and Tin Wis Resort exemplifies the power of Indigenous-led collaborations and initiatives, in sharing the traditions and heritage of Indigenous communities,” says Amos. “We commend Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation for their dedication to cultural revitalization and sustainable tourism, and we look forward to the transformative journey ahead for guests as they immerse themselves in the rich history and perspectives of the Tla-o-qui-aht people through naaʔuu.”
Proceeds from naaʔuu go back to Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation, supporting language and cultural resurgence.
“Given Tin Wis Resort is owned by Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation, we’re honoured to be the host venue for the event series, knowing that this establishment is meeting the original goal set out by our leadership — to be fostering our culture and bringing more opportunities for Tla-o-qui-aht people,” says Maria Clark, Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation citizen and Tin Wis Resort assistant manager.
For naaʔuu, the event-production team will be converting the Tin Wis Resort conference centre into a Tla-o-qui-aht-inspired art space, providing an interactive experience. This includes an art show onsite during the event, representing Tla-o-qui-aht and Nuu-chah-nulth artists and creators works for sale.
“naaʔuu presents the chance to listen, learn and join the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation as we embark on a journey through our past, present and future generations,” says naaʔuu’s Artistic director, Ivy Cargill-Martin. “I’m pleased to be a part of bringing Tla-o-qui-aht stories to life through art, my own personal way of storytelling. A chance for understanding where you are and to gain perspective from those who have maintained it for generations.”
Tickets are available here.
