Quyana - Alaska Federation of Natives

Our traditional dances remain the lifeblood of our culture and our communities. They sustain us and connect us with our rich cultural history. Passed from generation to generation, our dances ensure that the many distinct Native cultures across Alaska remain connected to their origins. For over 35 years, Alaska Natives have come together in dance to celebrate Quyana Alaska during the annual AFN Convention.

First introduced at the 1982 Convention, Quyana Alaska was designed to restore our traditional dances and ensure that they were passed onto future generations. To date, over 300 different dance groups have performed at the Quyana Alaska gatherings. The cultural revival has certainly exploded across rural Alaska, and Quyana Alaska is now a treasured highlight of each and every Convention.

The AFN Convention and Quyana 1 and 2 are broadcast live on gavel-to-gavel television on GCI Channel 907 and Internet. The broadcasts reach thousands of remote communities throughout Alaska and through the Internet, around the world. Estimated audience ranges from 10,000 – 40,000 viewers during primetime.

The 2019 AFN Quyana Application has now closed. Dance group selections and notifications will be made via email by July 11, 2019.