ACDEN RETURNS AS DENE HAND GAMES TOURNAMENT PARTNER AT THE ATC CULTURAL FESTIVAL
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo, AB, Treaty 8 –September 11, 2024) — Athabasca Tribal Council (ATC) is pleased to announce their partnership with Acden in support of the Dene Hand Games Tournament as part of the ATC Cultural Festival presented by Centerfire, September 12-15, 2024 at Snye Point Park.
“The Hand Games tournament is one of the most anticipated events each year,'' said Chief Allan Adam, President of the Athabasca Tribal Council and Chief of the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation. “The high energy and competitiveness of the participants make it so much fun to watch and cheer the teams on. Having Indigenous-owned Acden back as a partner shows great support from the business community to support the Festival.”
The Dene Hand Games are an engaging guessing game where one team hides an object in one of their hands, and the opposing team must guess which hand holds the object. Points are awarded for correct guesses and can also be stolen. The game becomes lively as players use animated tactics to confuse their opponents about who has the object and in which hand. Spectators often join in the excitement, guessing from the sidelines and cheering on their favourite teams and players.
“As Acden celebrates 30 years of growth and success, our continued sponsorship of the ATC Cultural Festival holds special significance. It reflects our commitment to supporting cultural traditions and honouring the deep connection we have with our community. Being the Hand Games sponsor again this year not only allows us to celebrate our shared heritage but also continues to connect us with our community” said Garry Flett, President and CEO of ACDEN.
Bleachers will be set up for people to watch and cheer on their favourite teams. This year the tournament will run from Friday, September 13 to Sunday, September 15 for the tournament finals. With room for 24 teams, registration is now open, with on-site registration opening September 12. To register online visit: www.atcculturalfestival.ca/hand-games
"It’s inspiring to see how this tournament strengthens the bonds within our community, creating memories that will last a lifetime. I am fascinated by the teams' passion and skill; the energy and enthusiasm that fill the air are really thrilling!" remarked Karla Buffalo, Chief Executive Officer of the Athabasca Tribal Council.
Celebrating the 125th anniversary of the signing of Treaty 8, at the Snye in 1899, attendees will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant cultures of the Indigenous peoples of the Wood Buffalo region, thanks to Suncor, the Cultural Honoria partner.
To learn more about the ATC Cultural Festival, please visit atcculturalfestival.ca.
Partnership opportunities are available and can be found at atcculturalfestival.ca/partnerships, or you can contact ATC’s Events Coordinator, Misty Preshyon-Snook, at 780-792-9885 or email Misty.preshyon-snook@atcfn.ca for more information.
The Cultural Festival showcases an exciting lineup of activities, including traditional dance performances, Youth and Elders programming, gift shop, learning lodge, and workshops on Indigenous crafts. We are currently seeking enthusiastic volunteers to help make this event a success. Whether you’re interested in assisting with food services, supporting the Nations at the Traditional Village or artists, your participation will be invaluable. Please visit atcculturalfestival.ca to know more about the event.
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ABOUT ATHABASCA TRIBAL COUNCIL
Athabasca Tribal Council is an organization that serves ATC First Nations by providing relevant and innovative programs and services that enrich the well-being, health and prosperity of its people. ATC is committed to ensuring the protection of inherent rights, Treaty Rights, and their Traditional Territories while respecting the autonomy of each Nation. For information, visit atcfn.ca.
For more information or for media inquiries:
Karla Buffalo
Chief Executive Officer
Athabasca Tribal Council
karla.buffalo@atcfn.ca | Main Office Phone: (780) 791-6538