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2026 Celebration of Native American Culture

September 18 - September 19

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Enjoy a Weekend of Storytelling, Vendors, Arts and Crafts, Exhibits, Workshops, Food and a Contest Powwow on Saturday

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Join us at Discovery Park for a two-day festival celebrating Native American history, traditions and culture. Now in its fourth year, the event features performances, activities and educational experiences for all ages. Events will take place on the south side of the park over two days.

Event Highlights

Contest Powwow: Witness the energy and beauty of Native American dance. Performers will showcase traditional regalia and share the stories behind each movement during two sessions on Saturday.

Storytelling Sessions: Enjoy captivating tales passed down through generations, bringing the history and values of Native American tribes to life. 

Full Park Activation: Experience Native American demonstrations on the north side of the park, along with Living Historians in The Settlement and TRABA Blacksmiths at the Smithy bringing history to life through engaging demonstrations. 

Native American Vendors: Explore the entire park, where vendors will feature Native American crafts, goods and interactive activities while demonstrators and others fill up the north side of the Heritage Park.

Art and Craft Demonstrations: Watch skilled artisans create intricate beadwork, pottery and other traditional crafts. 

Educational Exhibits: Discover displays that highlight the history, innovations and contributions of Native American communities. 

Interactive Workshops: Participate in hands-on activities such as learning Native American songs, drumming or creating simple crafts inspired by traditional designs. 

Food and Beverages: Enjoy a selection of Native American dishes and beverages, available for purchase from Native American food vendors. 

 

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Get Tickets Here

This event is included with Discovery Park admission or membership.

Native Americans with a Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB) or any other certificate of tribal affiliation card will receive free admission both days.

 

 

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Cultural Participants

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Schedule

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Schedule and participants are subject to change.[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

Friday, Sept. 18 | School & Education Day | 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Friday will feature three engaging educational sessions designed for school groups, educators and lifelong learners. Through interactive presentations and cultural demonstrations, participants will explore Native American history, traditions and cultural perspectives.[/vc_column_text]

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School Groups Receive Free Admission on Friday

Book your school field trip here.

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Saturday, Sept. 19 | Festival and Contest Powwow | 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

Saturday will feature a competitive powwow, which is an Indigenous cultural gathering featuring dancing, singing and community celebration. Guests will experience the vibrant regalia, artistry and cultural traditions as dancers and drum groups gather to celebrate Native American heritage.[/vc_column_text]

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Download the Contest Powwow Participant Flyer here.

Participant registration begins at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19.

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Corn Husk Doll-Making

Guests will learn about this traditional craft and create their own cornhusk doll with instruction from Rez Dog Art Studio. 

Participants will learn the process of making a cornhusk doll alongside one of our Native American demonstrators. Through demonstration and guided instruction, guests will explore the materials, techniques and cultural traditions connected to this craft while creating a doll to take home. 

This class is open to adults 18+, and online pre-registration is required.

The cost of this class is $15 for members and $25 for non-members.[/vc_column_text]Register for Corn Husk Doll-Making Class[/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Want to be part of this event?

Whether you’re interested in becoming a vendor or participating as a living historian, reenactor or demonstrator we’d love to have you! Click the button below to sign up.[/vc_column_text]Apply to Participate[vc_column_text]Vendor & demonstrator registration closes Tuesday, Sept. 15.

Vendor and participant questions may be emailed to Angela Demaris, Discovery Park’s education events content manager, at ademaris@discoveryparkofamerica.com.[/vc_column_text]

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The 2026 Celebration of Native American Culture is sponsored by Westan Insurance Group and Chubb Insurance, Higher Ground Coffee Company and Vantage Coffee Roasters.

Stay up-to-date on everything happening at Discovery Park by subscribing to our DiscoverMORE e-newsletter and following us on Facebook, Instagram, X and TikTok.

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