Git Hoan Dancers Dedicate New Totems Poles at Epcot – Walt Disney World

Git Hoan Dancers Dedicate New Totems Poles at Epcot – Walt Disney World
Photo by Erica Luck

The Candian pavilion at Walt Disney World's Epcot theme park has always featured magnificent totem poles.  The current poles have been in place since the early 1990s.  They were designed by Tsimshian artisan David Boxley.

Git Hoan Dancers Dedicate New Totems Poles at Epcot – Walt Disney World

On January 20, 2017, two new totem poles were installed by Disney.  The new poles were also designed by Boxley.

The Eagle Totem Pole tells one of Boxley’s favorite cultural tales, in which a boy finds an eagle caught in a net on a beach and frees it. Years later, when hunger strikes the boy’s tribe, he walks on the same beach, only to find the eagle there waiting for him with food – paying him back for his kindness years ago. The bottom of this totem pole also tells the story of how a family of beaver taught a human family the importance of treating all creatures – human and animal – with respect. The Whale Totem Pole depicts the tale of the first potlatch, a ceremonial feast celebrated by the Nagunaks and creatures of the undersea world. –Disney Parks Blog

The Git Hoan Dancers (People of the Salmon) from Washington performed at the dedication of the totem poles and several times throughout the weekend.

Git Hoan Dancers Dedicate New Totems Poles at Epcot – Walt Disney World

Photos by Lou Mongello and Erica Luck
Videos by Erica Luck

Last Updated on April 14, 2019 by PowWow Articles

About Paul G

Paul G is the founder PowWows.com, who wears many hats as a business coach, photographer, and collector of quirky shirts. Paul started PowWows.com in 1996 while pursuing his graduate degree. With a passion for travel, he and his family hav  traveled the world, capturing unforgettable memories and photos. When he's not coaching or clicking, he's indulging in the magic of Disney.


Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *


Find a Pow Wow
Near you

Search the US & Canada

What to expect
at your first Pow Wow

Sign Up for our Free E-newsletter