News Release

Sugpiaq Qayak Model Workshop

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News Release Date: January 30, 2026

Contact: Matt Johnson, 907.469.1131

KING SALMON, Alaska --- Katmai National Park is hosting a free traditional Sugpiaq qayak model building workshop for the communities of King Salmon and Naknek. The workshop takes place from 5 to 8 pm February 23 to 27, 2026, and from 1 to 4 pm February 28 to March 1, 2026. The workshop location is at 325 Ptarmigan pTrail Road. 14 seats are available for those 14 years old and older. To register contact the park at 907-469-2246.

Instructor Andrew Abyo, a Sugpiaq artist, aims to preserve cultural traditions by teaching anyone who wants to learn. Abyo will teach participants how to construct a 1/6 scale qayak model that was designed more than 5000 years ago by the Sugpiaq People. Come join us for seven days of learning and building. The workshop is sponsored by Katmai Conservancy and Katmai National Park.

For more information about Katmai visit us at www.nps.gov/katm and follow us on facebook, flickr, youtube, twitter, or instagram
 

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