Dena Games
These are some of the traditional games played by the indigenous, Dena (Athabascan), people of
Interior Alaska, Canada and the Northern Lower 48 states.
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Snow Snake
Snow Snake is a traditional game played during the winter. The game was played by men to display and practice the skill needed to hunt small game during the winter months. The object of the game is to throw the snow snake the farthest distance along a smooth track made in the snow. In modern times both males and females compete in Snow Snake.
The 'snakes' will be provided.
Hand Games
The Dene Hand Game is a guessing game where individual players or teams of players hide objects in one of their hands. The other team must guess which hand the object is in in order to score points – be careful though, points can be stolen! The game is customarily accompanied by traditional drumming and singing.
NOTE: The venue floor used for the March 2022 games does not allow outside shoes - bring slippers or be prepared to wear your socks. Cubbies provided for outside footwear.
Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult.
Pop Scramble
The Pop Scramble is a modern addition and is just a bit of fun for youngsters.
Children are grouped by age and run to grab as much soda pop out of the snow as they can carry.
Everyone is a winner!
Snowshoe Races
Snowshoe racers using traditional handmade snowshoes are grouped by gender. They snowshoe a designated distance. The frontrunners have the extra task of breaking trail for those behind them.
Strategy is key!
Snowshoes are not provided.
Photo Courtesy Wendy Rose-Ey & Zaphira Ey
