When is Potlatch observed?

Potlatch is observed in 12 on the 1th by followers of Indigenous Wisdom.

Which religion or tradition observes Potlatch?

Potlatch is a sacred observance in Indigenous Wisdom. Learn more about Indigenous Wisdom at u-god.com/library/indigenous.

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Indigenous Wisdom

Potlatch

The gift-giving feast of Northwest Coast peoples — where wealth means how much you give away.

December 1 – 3 days

Why It Matters

The Potlatch (Chinook: 'to give') is the central ceremony of Northwest Coast peoples (Haida, Tlingit, Kwakwaka'wakw). Wealth is measured by what you give away, not keep. Canada banned it from 1885-1951.

How It Is Observed

Days of feasting, dancing, storytelling, the host gives away accumulated wealth (blankets, food, canoes, cash), guests witness legal transitions (inheritance, naming, titles), totem pole raisings, masked dances.