From May to September, Tillicum Village on Blake Island opens its doors to the general public to experience and partake in this special Puget Sound gem. A local caterer opened the village in 1962 in preparation for the 1963 World Fair to showcase the ancient culinary techniques of the native inhabitants of the region.The 4 hour journey starts on Pier 55 in downtown Seattle, where guests board a private ferry and start the 50 minute cruise Southwest through Puget Sound to Blake Island, which lies directly North of Vashon Island and West of Lincoln Park and the Fauntleroy state ferry launch in West Seattle.
After arriving on Blake Island, stroll up the bleached clam shell-lined path for a reception of steamed clams in the traditional long house built with cedar logs and planks and adorned with Pacific Northwest American Indian Art. Upon entering the long house, the central focus of the Native culture becomes evident- the salmon. Relied upon for centuries
as a source of nutrition, and numerous other necessities, Pacific Northwest Tribes placed a great deal of importance on the role salmon played in their societies. At the Tillicum longhouse, the fish are prepared in the ancient method- by skewering them with short sticks of wood and slowly cooking the flesh over a fire of alder planks.
as a source of nutrition, and numerous other necessities, Pacific Northwest Tribes placed a great deal of importance on the role salmon played in their societies. At the Tillicum longhouse, the fish are prepared in the ancient method- by skewering them with short sticks of wood and slowly cooking the flesh over a fire of alder planks.The salmon is served with a fresh vegetable salad, steamed red potatoes, wild rice pilaf, and a dark earthy bread. Local wines and beers are also available for purchase. This delicious and hearty meal is paired with an amazing visual performance called “Dance on the Wind” by a collection of Native American Elders. The show is put on by world-class producer Greg Thompson and similar to the food, does not disappoint.
I recommend this date on the clearest of days, when the cruise from downtown to Blake Island will be best, and the views of the Cascades, Olympics, and Mt. Rainer will be most breathtaking. Weekdays performances are scheduled at 4:30- which is perfect if you can duck out of work early on an easy summer afternoon. For weekends, chose a Saturday or Sunday right after Labor Day when kids are back in school, but Seattle’s Indian Summer is still in full swing.
I recommend this date on the clearest of days, when the cruise from downtown to Blake Island will be best, and the views of the Cascades, Olympics, and Mt. Rainer will be most breathtaking. Weekdays performances are scheduled at 4:30- which is perfect if you can duck out of work early on an easy summer afternoon. For weekends, chose a Saturday or Sunday right after Labor Day when kids are back in school, but Seattle’s Indian Summer is still in full swing.
