Gathering of the Eagles Canoe Journey - Lopez, San Juan, & Orcas Island Events
Esqalph etse Kwelengsen (Gathering of the Eagles in Xwlemi' Language) is celebrating the beginning of Summer 2026 with 6th Annual Gathering of the Eagles (GOTE), May 16-22, 2026.
We host our journey in a grassroots traditional level with permission of our Kwelengsen clan elders, our family & friends in our the San Juan Islands (our traditional homelands), with honor, hope, healing, happiness & hospitality.
Like when canoes traveled in the 'olden days,' we take only what we need and leave the places we visit -- in better than the way than when our canoes first laid foot on the shores...
Our 'Celebration of Intergenerational Cultural Heritage' begins with a seven-island canoe journey with three canoes including: the Octopus Canoe (Carvers Camp), the Hawaiian Voyaging Canoe Society, and Chief Leschi School canoe families. We travel the ancestral highways and Islanders host potluck-potlatch style gatherings of food, including cultural exchanges, storytelling, meditation, prayer circles, traditional and song & dances with some arts & crafts vendors and gift-making.
The Islands & Destinations
May 16 • Fidalgo & Lopez Islands
May 18 • San Juan Island
May 20 • Shaw & Orcas Island
May 22 • Lummi Island & Island of
Chachusen (Lummi Rez)
Our Journey concludes with a Clam & Oyster Bake as all events are free & open to the public. ALL PARTICIPANTS COME ON YOUR OWN — Please note: Our Gathering of Eagles committee reserves the right to refuse service to anyone. These are peaceful, community bridge building gatherings in the spirit of tribal journeys. Events are alcohol & drug free.
