One tradition of Pacific Northwest indigenous peoples that still survives today is the practice of Potlatch ceremonies. Potlatches are ceremonial events where gifts are given, speeches are made, and feasting takes place to commemorate important life events such as births, marriages, and deaths, as well as to mark social and political status. Potlatches are still held by various indigenous communities in the Pacific Northwest region as a way to maintain cultural identity and to strengthen community ties.
