Since 1991, a growing number of cities and states have formally recognized and celebrated Indigenous Peoples’ Day on the second Monday in October. The Oklahoma legislature officially moved our state’s honorary celebration from November to October.
Today, venues and organizations around the Oklahoma City metro invite families to learn more about the diverse Native cultures in our state, on Indigenous Peoples’ Day and into Native American Heritage Month.
Here are several ways your family can celebrate and learn about Indigenous cultures.
Oct. 5-Nov. 1
Photography in Motion – A Native Youth Exhibit at Red Earth Art Center
100 N Broadway Ave, OKC
Features photos taken by local students. These young artists participated in a photography course that taught them essential skills in capturing motion and storytelling through the lens. The culmination of their efforts is a series of photographs taken at a powwow, reflecting both their newly acquired technical abilities and their deep connection to their cultural heritage. The exhibit is free and open to the public. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Oct. 14
Indigenous Peoples’ Day at First Americans Museum
659 First Americans Blvd, OKC
Features cultural performances, educational demonstrations, dancing exhibitions, film screenings, a hand drum contest, live music, stickball games, food trucks and more. Free to attend, $5 gallery admission. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Oct. 19
FREE Red Earth FallFest at Myriad Gardens
301 W Reno Ave, OKC
Features an all-day arts market and a Youth Powwow showcasing dance, music and cultural heritage. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Nov. 3
FREE Chilocco Through the Years Documentary at Downtown Library
300 Park Ave, OKC
This extended version (39:40) of the Chilocco History Project documentary looks at the history of the Chilocco Indian Agricultural School located in northern Oklahoma with a strong focus on the perspective of alumni from decades leading up to the school’s closure. 3:30-4:30 p.m. Also held Nov. 20 at 6 p.m.
Nov. 8
FREE Native American Cultural Event at Metro Tech
1900 Springlake Dr, OKC
Features authentic storytelling, performances, booths, handcrafted beadwork, moccasins and more. The event is open to the public. 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Nov. 9
Native American Heritage Day at Chickasaw Cultural Center
867 Cooper Memorial Dr, Sulphur
Enjoy family-friendly activities including cultural demonstrations, live music, food tastings, crafts, games and more. Free to attend. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Nov. 13
FREE Speak While You Can: Artists Round Table at Sam Noble
2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman
A panel of guest artists will discuss their artistic journeys, their ties to language revitalization within their communities and the inspirations fueling their creative expressions. Following the discussion, audience members will have the opportunity to visit the museum’s Brown Gallery to view the exhibit alongside the artists.
Nov. 16
FREE Choctaw Social Dance Demonstration at Downtown Library
300 Park Ave, OKC
Features a performance of traditional styles of Choctaw dance by a dance group from the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma in the Downtown Library atrium. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
FREE Native American Regalia at Southern Oaks Library
6900 S Walker Ave, OKC
Get a firsthand look at Native American Regalia. Led by Native American presenters from the Red Earth, Inc., guests will see traditional Regalia up close and learn about the craftsmanship, cultural meanings and history behind each piece. Registration is not required. 2-3 p.m.
FREE Indigenous Artists & Authors Fair at Belle Isle Library
5501 N Villa Ave
Features several local Indigenous artists and authors showcasing what they do best. 1-4 p.m.
Worth the drive
Nov. 1-3
Choctaw Nation Annual Powwow at the Choctaw Cultural Center
3702 Choctaw Rd, Durant
Features one of the nation’s largest powwows. Experience the sights and sounds of dancers from all over the country. Free with admission. See website for schedule.
Nov. 9
SkasdiCon at Cherokee Casino
3307 Seven Clans Ave, Tahlequah
Features Indigenous artists and creators, panel discussions, film screenings and a family-friendly cosplay competition. All ages welcome. Free to attend. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
For even more family-friendly events, visit our searchable calendar with things to do every day of the week.
