The Bear Feast Ceremony - February 5th, 2019

The Bear Feast Ceremony was magnificent. It was an intimate gathering led by Algonquin Elder and language speaker from Pikwakanagan, Barry Sarazin. We had the honour to hear Barry explain the history, significance and meaning of the Bear Feast Ceremony. He explained why we pay our respects and pray for the baby bears being born every year after the Winter Solstice to mark the new year, and how the playful bears maintain the health of the forest and its plant life such as food and medicines. He also shared four songs on the Thunderbird Drum that are specific to this ceremony. The feast was so delicious with local and traditional foods, and we offered a plate outside to the bear spirit. 
Meegwetch, thank you, merci Barry for this beautiful experience and revitalizing this special ceremony.
We look forward to taking part in more traditional ceremonies here at Plenty Canada!