Masking is a winter Alutiiq ceremony, inspired from Ukrainian folk traditions, that takes place in the days leading up to the Russian New Year. Like carolers, maskers traveled from home to home. Groups of fully disguised men and women dance to see if people can guess their identity. If they are identified, they must unmask and stop for the evening. Elders recall that masking sometimes frightened children. In Karluk it became so terrifying that villagers held the masking ceremony in the community hall. For adults it was a festive event with music and dancing. People would play the guitar, banjo, accordion, and anything that would make noise.

This Wednesday, Sun’aq Tribe of Kodiak invites the entire community to their Praznyk Masquerade Ball at the Sun’aq Tribal Hall. Enjoy live music by the Pilot Bread Band and a performance by the Alutiiq Dancers. Dinner will be provided with a dessert potluck — bring something sweet to share! Win prizes with a split-the-pot raffle and costume contests for kids and adults.

Contact Sun’aq Tribe of Kodiak for more information: 907.486.4449

Wednesday, January 14, 2015, 6:3pm. $15. Kids ages 3-12: $5.
Sun’aq Tribal Council  |  312 West Marine Way  |  907.486.4449