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Choo Drin 2008
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| Vadzaih Choo Drin - Big Caribou Days began in 2000 as an annual event to celebrate the Porcupine Caribou and their importance in the Vuntut Gwich'in culture and tradition. Vadzaih Choo Drin happens each year during the May long weekend; Old Crow organizations partner together to coordinate the festivities. The timing of these events coincides with the return of the caribou to the north as they migrate to the calving grounds for the summer season. Vadzaih Choo Drin involves three days of activities that include participation of all generations of the residents of Old Crow. These diverse activities involve games for young people such as "pin the tail on the caribou" and educational demonstrations including "how to prepare dry meat." It is an excellent opportunity for both young people and elders to engage in traditional activities and to give thanks for this food source that is vital to the existence of the Vuntut Gwich'in people. |
 
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The coordinator, Teresa Frost, getting Big Caribou Days started off outside with cooking, games and demonstrations of drymeat cutting. |
 
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Members of the community making drymeat during a demonstration. Left to right: Elizabeth Kaye cutting meat up for dry meat, Elder Charlie Thomas making drymeat |
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Left to right: Mary Tizya cutting caribou ham for drymeat, Dennis Frost holding up his drymeat ready to be hung up in the tent. |
