The Nalukataq festival, celebrated by Nuiqsut’s Inupiat culture, has been a valued part of local tradition for generations. This act of thanksgiving occurs during whaling season, and marks the first of several times during the year when parts of the whale are distributed to the community.

For the past several years, Pioneer employees have hosted a barbeque as part of the event, serving as a time for Pioneer staff and village residents to join together in a festive environment. Participants gather for a night of singing, storytelling, distributing the catch, and traditional dancing. The Nalukataq blanket, created from several seal skins, is used to toss a blanket dancer into the air while they throw candy to surrounding children.

As a member of the Alaskan community, Pioneer is humbled to be a part of such a time-honored tradition, sharing in the celebration of food, culture and life.