The North Tide Yaakw Ḵwáan canoe family arrived at Alki Beach after a 1,500-mile journey from Haines, Alaska with a flag flying from the mast, a skipper who waited 20 years for the journey, and women with red handprints across their faces.

Organizers estimated 11,000 people gathered at the Muckleshoot Reservation to share songs and dances for days after 120 canoe families landed at Alki Beach in Seattle.

For the next week, canoe families will participate in protocol at the Muckleshoot Community Center. “It’s kind of like a more traditional version of a powwow,” said Jolene Lozier.

The Muckleshoot Indian Tribe will host this year, with the theme “honoring our warriors, past and present.” Underscore News will be there to provide live coverage.

The Intertribal Canoe Journey is back this year, after a three-year break during the Covid-19 pandemic.