The Dene Tha’ are very spiritual people. Spirituality permeates every facet of life, from how people conduct themselves on the land, to harvesting medicine, to performing Tea Dance ceremonies.
The Tea Dance (or “Dahot s’ethe”) is a deeply religious ceremony for the Dene Tha’. The reason to have a Tea Dance is revealed to the prophets or spiritual leaders of the community through their dreams. A Tea Dance might be held to ask for a successful hunting season, or good weather. It might also be held to commemorate a meeting with another neighbouring community, or as a burial ceremony for someone who has recently died. Tea Dances are still held regularly in Chateh and Meander River, and are very important to the Dene Tha’ culture.