Experiences
Lennox Island, a 540-hectare island located in Malpeque Bay off the northwest coast of Prince Edward Island, Canada. Connected by a short causeway and bridge, Lennox Island is home to 450 Lennox Island First Nation band members. Lennox Island First Nation has in total 1056 band members, many of which live off reserve. There are four main businesses here, the Lennox Island Development Corporation, Bideford Shellfish Hatchery, Fisherman’s Pride, and Malpek Cannabis/Tmawey Smoke Shop. They are also home to a community owned thrift shop, health centre, elementary school, church, craft shop, cultural centre, daycare, and a brand-new fire hall. Culturally, they have nature trails to help community members and visitors reconnect with nature, blueberry fields and the beginnings of our green house project. As well as a women’s shelter, sweat lodge, Aboriginal Women’s Association PEI head office, and our wonderful ceremonial Mawi’omi grounds.
You’ll arrive looking for knowledge, and with all these opportunities, you’ll leave with a full heart and a new understanding of the beautiful rich culture, history and traditions of the Mi’kmaq on PEI.
What Visitors Can Expect
When you visit, depending on the time of year and type of experience you are looking for, you can hear about our language, learn about our drumming and song, see our dances, and listen to the stories of long, long ago. You can also examine our artifacts, feast on our traditional foods, explore our amazing trails and beaches, use your hands to make crafts and drums, or buy a unique and beautiful souvenir for the craft shop. Depending on the time of year, you can also take part in traditional ceremonies and come to our annual gatherings where we share our knowledge, traditions and customs.
“Over the years, we have had the pleasure of welcoming guests to our beautiful Island from all over the world and together, we have created rich, lasting memories. Connect with nature on our breathtaking trails, learn about our artisans and the power of traditional Mi’kmaq art, or take part in one of our memorable authentic experiences. Regardless how you choose to experience Lennox Island, we can’t wait to see you!” – Jamie Thomas, Cultural Director
Examples of Authentic Mi’kmaq Experiences and workshops:
Bannock and Clams
Start your day building a fire to cook traditional Bannock bread in the sand. While your delegates are cooking they learn about Lennox Island and the Mi’kmaq culture, listen to stories and enjoy a traditional feast!
The Beat of One Drum
Attendees learn how to soak, stretch and wrap moose hide around a wooden drum frame — punching holes in the hide and eventually pulling hide strings through to tighten it and make a finished product.
Mi’kmaq Quill Art
The fine art of classic quill art is an ancient Mi’kmaq tradition that uses porcupine quills, weaved together on pieces of birch bark. It became a popular trade item, beginning in the 1600s. Participants will spend time at Lennox Island and will have the opportunity to harvest their materials needed out on the territory, learn about the different styles of this classic ancient art form, create their own quill work.