Potlatch

A potlatch is a festive ceremony that is practiced by the indigenous people of the Pacific North Coast, some areas of the United States, and in the Canadian province British Columbia. A potlatch is often held  to establish or uphold his status position in the society. Potlatches can be put on the mark an important event such as a birth of a new child, a birthday, or a marriage. These ceremonies are hosted by local or elite groups in a community. At a Potlatch a huge feast is held, performances such as singing and dancing take place, and gifts are given to the host of the Potlatch. Some gifts may include dried foods, sugar, flour, and sometimes money. The people providing these gifts may want to barter with one another so they can have the most valued gift. 

Some people or cultures that take place in a potlatch include Nuu-chah-nulth, Kwakiutl, Bella Coola, Haida, Nootka, Tsimshian, and Tlingit.  A potlatch is most commonly compared to our modern society wedding. At weddings feasts are provided, and gifts are given, and they are held to honor the acclomplishment. There are many similarities to a potlatch and wedding because they are both huge events that are put on with a lot of consideration and planning.