Lapland and the history of the Sami People
Reindeer herding is still practiced today and is an important aspect of the Sami culture. Reindeer husbandry is legally protected as a Sami culture in Norway, meaning that only families with a link to other Reindeer herding families can make a living from reindeer herding and husbandry.There are various festivals that celebrate the Sami culture; many of these take place in the Sapmi area. One of the festivals celebrated is the Easter festival which takes place Kautokeino area and is before the springtime Reindeer migration to the coast. The festival combines all of the traditional cultures as well as modern pastimes, such as snowmobile races. Music is also an important part of the Sami culture. The singing of Joik includes dedicating songs to animals and nature or to special people. The music can be sad or joyful and in more recent times musical instruments have accompanied the singing of Joiks.
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