A program focusing on Maine’s native American culture is returning to Acadia National Park this summer, after a one-year hiatus. 

Beginning June 14, the program, presented in partnership with the Abbe Museum, will include a series of demonstrations by performers and artists from the Wabanaki, Passamaquoddy and Penobscot nations. 

“The Wabanaki people have a deep connection to and understanding of the lands that now make up Acadia National Park.” said Acadia National Park Superintendent Kevin Schneider. “This program not only centers that knowledge and helps others facilitate connections with this place we love – but reminds visitors that the Wabanaki Nations are still here, and Wabanaki people have an enduring connection to this land.”  

The program will include the following presentations: 

  • The Burnurwurbskek Singers (Wednesday, June 14, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Cadillac Mountain Summit): A men’s drum group from the Penobscot Nation at Indian Island. The group will perform traditional Wabanaki songs.
  • Fancy Basket Demonstration with Sarah Sockbeson (Wednesday, July 12, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Jordan Pond House Lawn): Sockbeson, also of the Penobscot Nation, will demonstrate weaving and integration of painting and bone carving into her work.   
  • Market Basket Demonstration with Gabriel Frey (Wednesday, Aug. 16, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Jordan Pond House Lawn): Frey, of the Passamaquoddy Nation, will demonstrate the use of ash in creating utility baskets. 
  • Talk and Storytelling with Dwayne Tomah (Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2023, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Sieur de Mont Nature Center Patio): Tomah, of the Passamaquoddy Nation, will discuss working with preserved wax cylinders that contain stories, vocabulary and songs, and perform a storytelling program. 
  • Flintknapping Demonstration with Chris Sockalexis, (Wednesday, Sept. 6, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Jordan Pond House Lawn): Sockalexis, of the Penobscot Nation, will discuss and perform the art of producing tools from stone and bone. 

Attendance is free for those who already have a park pass. In addition, Cadillac Mountain visitors will also need a vehicle registration.