Muckleshoot — Muckleshoot families and employees gathered on a cold November evening for the Tribe’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, an event that continues to grow in community spirit each year. Tribal Government departments lined the walkway, each showcasing their own decorated tree with lights, ornaments, and festive details that reflected their programs. Families moved from tree to tree, taking photos and enjoying the displays.
A bubble machine created a snowfall effect that quickly became one of the most popular spots of the night, with kids running through the bubbles and playing in the “snow.” Balloon animals, face painting, glitter tattoos, and temporary tattoos added to the fun, keeping families smiling as they made their way through the event.
Food trucks provided warm comfort foods throughout the evening. Community members enjoyed hot dogs, burgers, pizza, coffee, and hot cocoa perfect for staying warm in the cold weather.
Carolers filled the area with music, and Santa Claus made an appearance, adding to the festive atmosphere as families enjoyed the start of the holiday season together.
The evening was filled with the warmth of community – a celebration of togetherness, creativity, and the traditions that continue to strengthen the Muckleshoot Tribe.

Julia Keefe (Nez Perce) is an internationally acclaimed Native American jazz vocalist, bandleader, actor, and educator. Her story serves as a message to young girls: Dream big, work hard, do it all with love in your heart.

Muckleshoot Tribal Council Treasurer, John Daniels Jr., remarks on the greatest anniversary for Federally Recognized Tribes in Washington State: the historic Boldt Decision of February 12, 1974.

The Boldt decision of 1974 was the result of sacrifices made by Native fishers and their families who were jailed and beaten while defending their rights.

The UW participated in its first Tribal Canoe Journey, with students, faculty, staff, and alums working together as a family — the Shell House Canoe Family, č̓away̓altxʷ ʔiišəd — to make it all happen.
The Muckleshoot Messenger is a Tribal publication created by the Muckleshoot Office of Media Services. Tribal community members and Tribal employees are welcome to submit items to the newspaper such as news, calendar items, photos, poems, and artwork.