These coloring pages were created by Spirit Lake Dakota artist Marlena Myles to celebrate winter! You are free to download for personal/classroom/educational events use only. These come with an augmented reality component that you can activate anyplace to visit with Waziya, the Dakota Spirit of the North Wind!

Two of the coloring pages feature writing by Dakota authors Tanagidantowin/Blue Hummingbird Woman (Tara Perron) and Diane Wilson. Audio pronunciation guide will be added soon.

Wazíya, the Power of the North Wind

The north is the home of Wazíya, Spirit of the North Wind, and of the winter season, Waníyetu. Sometimes depicted as a giant, Wazíya is the strongest and most formidable of all the winds, commanding both respect and caution from the Dakota people and the Animal Nations. With an icy breath that can freeze living flesh into stone within moments, Wazíya embodies the immense power and danger of winter.

He is represented by the color red and he is often at odds with his brother Okáǧa, the Spirit of the South Wind, who brings the warm, gentle breezes of summer. Together, their opposing forces shape the cycles of the seasons, reflecting the delicate balance of nature and the resilience needed to thrive within it.

Imnížaska Othúŋwe Waníyetu Oškáte /
Saint Paul Winter Carnival 

Dakota people have always lived here, in a place called Mni Sota Makoce.

In 1886, Dakota families were invited to the very first Saint Paul Winter Carnival.
They came back again in 1887, 1888, and 1896.

They shared winter skills, art, and community life.
Tipis rose in the snow, moccasins were made, and visitors were welcomed.

Even families who had been forced away found their way home.
In 1896, Dakota families from Spirit Lake traveled by train back to Minnesota.

Today, the story continues.
We return to honor Waziya, the Winter Wind, and to say clearly: we are still here.

Tamarack

Once the most common tree in Minnesota, Šiŋtá or Makháŋ (Tamarack) is unique with countless uses. Unlike most needle trees, it sheds its needles in winter, showing off golden colors in the fall before going bare. In early summer, its hard, sweet sap makes a tasty snack. The roots of large tamaracks are sometimes dug up for food and used as strong fibers for making baskets and sewing canoes. The Dakota name for Red Lake, Bde Ša, comes from the roots that give the lake its iconic red hue.

Šiŋtá or Makháŋ is also highly valued for its medicinal properties. The inner bark helps heal burns and wounds, while boiled and crushed leaves and bark are used as an herbal steam to ease headaches and backaches. Its needles can be brewed into tea during cold season to aid digestion and overall wellness.

This coloring page features writing by Diane Wilson.