The Washoe have inhabited Nevada’s Great Basin for at least 9,000 years, and tribal lore says they have lived here since time began. Unlike other Nevada tribes whose native language is a form of Uto-Aztecan, the Washoe’s native tongue is a Hokan-type language. The word Tahoe is a mispronunciation of the Washoe word for “the lake” (Da ow). When the snows melted in spring, the Washoe gathered at Lake Tahoe’s edge (Da ow aga), where they blessed the water and themselves, a tradition continuing today. One of their most sacred cultural and spiritual sites is Cave Rock—known as De’ek wadapush (rock standing gray) on the southwestern shore. The Washoe recognize the importance of preserving their traditional way of life while remaining an important part of modern society. They continue to hold traditional celebrations—such as rabbit drives—and like all Nevada’s tribes are teaching their youth to speak their native language.
The Wa She Shu It DehWa She Shu It Deh Festival is held at the Tallac Historic Site at South Lake Tahoe each summer. The festival began as an opportunity to promote the basketry of the Washoe Tribe and showcase their beautiful fancy basketry. It has since continued to grow and now features basketry demonstrations, music, fine art, photography,dance performances and storytelling.For more information, visit
