Logistics
Celebrate
Celebrations and rituals have always been a part of life in Chukotka, long before their history was recorded. Many of these observe the annual hunting and harvesting cycle. In spring, people in Chukotka celebrate the first fawn. In summer, they observe the day of the fisherman. In fall, the reindeer fawn, whale, and keretkun are celebrated. Other rituals include the ceremonial whale boat launch and a thanksgiving ritual.
The Celebration of the First Fawn is a traditional celebration of the birth of the first reindeer in reindeer herding settlements. It begins during the first half of May, once the newborn fawns have gained strength and the does have lost their antlers. Learn more >>
The Day of the Fisherman is a coastal celebration of the fish harvest is held on the second Sunday of July and culminates with a ritual called "feeding the net." Learn more >>
The Celebration of the Reindeer Fawn takes place in late August, at the end of the summer herding period. Once the herd is counted, the autumn slaughter begins and reindeer hides are made into winter clothing. Learn more >>.
The Whaleboat Launch is an early-morning ceremony usually takes place in coastal communities and signifies the beginning of a new sea mammal hunting season. Learn more >>.
Keretkun is one of the most colorful celebrations of the Chukchi and Yu'pik, which takes place at the end of August and the beginning of September, and begins with the arrival of a whaleboat messenger bringing news of a successful hunt. To learn more about this celebration, Learn more >>.
Another celebration of the coastal Chukchi and Yup'ik traditionally connected to the peak hunting season in late summer, Keretkun is the name of the spirit to whom hunting wishes and requests are sent. To learn more about this celebration, Learn more >>.
Source and images: courtesy of http://www.chukotka.org
