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 in the Sand
With guidance from an experience provider, each group will prepare one batch of Bannock dough. The Bannock is then cooked beneath the fire in the sand while oysters are smoked over the fire. The experience also includes a guided tour of the Culture Centre, where you will learn about our history and culture.
The Beat of the Drum
Learn how to make your own deer- or elk-hide hand drum with teachings and guidance from an experience provider. At the end of this meaningful hands-on experience, you will take your finished drum home with you. A guided tour of the Culture Centre is also included, offering an opportunity to learn about our history and culture.
Quillwork on Birch Bark
Discover the detailed and intricate art of porcupine quillwork on birch bark. With guidance from an experience provider, you will create your own eight-pointed star quillwork piece, which will be framed for you to take home. The experience also includes a guided tour of the Culture Centre, where you will learn about our history and culture.