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Kabila
Panoramaaufnahme des Tulalip Resort 51.

Tulalip Tribes

They call themselves dxʷlilap

Coast Salish peoples of the Tulalip Reservation in Washington State

Photo: marbla123, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Tulalip Tribes are a federally recognized group of South and Central Coast Salish peoples, including Duwamish, Snohomish, Snoqualmie, Skagit, Suiattle, Samish, and Stillaguamish, living on the Tulalip Reservation in western Washington. With 2,500–2,800 enrolled members, they are known for their cultural revival, economic enterprises, and stewardship of their land and traditions.

  • The Tulalip Reservation was established by treaty in 1855.
  • The Tulalip Tribes operate two major casinos and a business park.
  • Lushootseed language classes are taught in local schools.
  • The Hibulb Cultural Center opened in 2011 on the reservation.
  • Annual events include the First King Salmon Ceremony and Treaty Days.

Who are the Tulalip Tribes?

The Tulalip Tribes are a union of several South and Central Coast Salish peoples: Duwamish, Snohomish, Snoqualmie, Skagit, Suiattle, Samish, and Stillaguamish. They are bound together by shared history, culture, and the Tulalip Reservation, which was created by treaty in 1855. The name 'Tulalip' comes from the Lushootseed word 'dxʷlilap', originally from the Snohomish dialect, and was used to describe the tribes who joined together on the reservation. Today, the Tulalip Tribes maintain their identity through language, ceremonies, and community institutions.

Where do the Tulalip Tribes live?

The Tulalip Reservation lies on Port Susan in western Snohomish County, Washington, west of Marysville and within the Seattle metropolitan area. The reservation covers 34.7 square miles and includes coastal lands, forests, and rivers typical of the Puget Sound region. The largest community is Tulalip Bay. The land is both a home and a source of cultural identity, supporting fishing, gathering, and traditional practices.

What language do the Tulalip Tribes speak?

Tulalip people speak English and Lushootseed, a Central Salish language. Lushootseed is written in the Latin script, and a dictionary and grammar have been published. The tribe established a language department in the 1990s to help revive and teach Lushootseed. Classes are now offered in local schools, reflecting ongoing efforts to keep the language alive.

How do the Tulalip Tribes live?

Traditionally, Tulalip people relied on fishing, especially salmon, as well as gathering and crafts. Today, many work in tribal enterprises, including casinos, retail, and hospitality businesses. The tribe operates the Tulalip Resort Casino, Quil Ceda Creek Casino, and other businesses in Quil Ceda Village. These enterprises provide jobs and income for the community. Some members continue fishing and participate in cultural craftwork.

How is Tulalip Tribes society organised?

The Tulalip Tribes are governed by a seven-member, democratically elected Board of Directors. Membership is based on descent from persons on the 1935 census roll and residency requirements. The community values family ties and shared heritage. Decision-making is collective, with leaders chosen through elections. The tribe maintains its own schools and cultural institutions to support community life.

One room of the Tulalip Tribes Hibulb Cultural Center, Tulalip, Washington is modeled closely on a traditional longhouse.
One room of the Tulalip Tribes Hibulb Cultural Center, Tulalip, Washington is modeled closely on a traditional longhouse. Photo: Joe Mabel (on Flickr as Joe Mabel, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Hibulb Cultural Center and Museum on Tulalip reservation, Snohomish County, Washington, United States
Hibulb Cultural Center and Museum on Tulalip reservation, Snohomish County, Washington, United States. Photo: Brianhe, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

What do the Tulalip Tribes believe?

The Tulalip Tribes practice traditional tribal religion and hold ceremonies such as the First King Salmon Ceremony, Treaty Days, and Winter Dancing. The Hibulb Cultural Center preserves and shares their history, art, and rituals. Music, dance, and storytelling are important cultural expressions. The tribe also hosts a Veteran's Pow Wow and other annual events that bring the community together.

The history of the Tulalip Tribes

The Tulalip Tribes formed when several Coast Salish groups were moved to the Tulalip Reservation after the Treaty of Point Elliott in 1855. The reservation was further defined by executive order in 1873. The construction of Interstate 5 divided the reservation from Marysville in the mid-20th century. The tribe has faced challenges such as land loss and outside development, but has built a strong economy and revived cultural practices. In recent years, the Tulalip Tribes have played a role in state politics and legal efforts to protect tribal rights.

Tulalip Tribes life today

Today, the Tulalip Tribes have 2,500–2,800 enrolled members and a growing population on the reservation. They operate successful businesses and invest in education and cultural revival. The tribe is building its own elementary school with an Indigenous-focused model. The Hibulb Cultural Center and language programs reflect ongoing efforts to strengthen identity and self-determination.

Questions people ask about the Tulalip Tribes

Where do the Tulalip Tribes live?

The Tulalip Tribes live on the Tulalip Reservation in western Snohomish County, Washington, near Marysville and the Puget Sound.

How many Tulalip tribal members are there?

There are between 2,500 and 2,800 enrolled members of the Tulalip Tribes.

What language do the Tulalip Tribes speak?

They speak English and Lushootseed, a Central Salish language. The tribe has programs to revive and teach Lushootseed.

What are the main ways the Tulalip Tribes make a living?

They operate casinos, retail businesses, and other enterprises. Fishing and crafts remain important for some members.

What is the Hibulb Cultural Center?

The Hibulb Cultural Center is a museum and cultural space on the reservation that preserves and shares Tulalip history, art, and traditions.

Sources and further reading

This page was written with AI assistance from the sources above and checked automatically before publishing. It may contain mistakes, and it is no substitute for hearing from the Tulalip Tribes themselves. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-02.

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