Native American Festival recognizes indigenous history

California State Park’s Antelope Valley Indian Museum State Historic Park (SHP) invites the public to join its annual Native American Celebration on Oct. 19 and 20. The event will feature captivating performances, traditional storytelling, and arts and crafts exhibitions celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Native American tribes. The museum is located at 15701 East Avenue M in Lancaster.
The event will kick off with a blessing by Chumash/Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians elder Ted Garcia. Throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy performances and interactive activities.
Additionally, the event will feature booths and information from the Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians, Torres Martinez Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health and Marine Corps League Antelope Valley. Below are some of the activities the public can enjoy:
• Music and dance: Enjoy hoop dancing by
Sage Romero (Paiute/Taos Pueblo), traditional
songs by Kaelene Ashmore (Diné), Aztec danc
ing by Danza Azteca Xochipilli, music from
Blue Star, a Northern Style drum group, and
traditional bird songs sung by the Fernandeño
Tataviam Band of Mission Indians.
• Native storytelling: Listen to traditional
Chumash stories told by Ted and Dennis
Garcia (Chumash/Fernandeño Tataviam Band
of Mission Indians).
• Hands-on activities: Get involved in the
traditional skill of clay working and learn how
to pound acorns and pine nuts at the touch
table in Joshua Cottage.
• Flint knapping demonstration: Watch the fas
cinating process of making arrowheads with
expert Mike Thompson.
• Art, crafts, and more: Explore and purchase
handcrafted Native American jewelry, bead
work, gourd art, paintings, and crafts created
by 14 Native artists.
• Traditional native cuisine: Don’t miss the
chance to try Indian tacos and fry bread, avail
able for purchase from the Wildhorse Native
American Association.
In addition to the performances and activities, this is also a great opportunity for visitors to tour the museum, with knowledgeable docents on hand to provide insights. Mark your calendars for this enriching celebration of Native American culture and community.
Pets are not allowed in the museum. Service animals are welcome per California State Parks’ Service Animals Policy.
California State Parks supports equal access. If you are in need of special accommodation or need more information, please call the museum at (661) 946-3055 (711 TTY relay service). Visit the museum website at avim.parks.ca.gov. Follow the museum on Facebook at facebook.com/AVIndianMuseum.
The Antelope Valley Indian Museum State Historic Park HP showcases more than 4,000 objects created by the Native American peoples of Southern California, Arizona, and New Mexico. Visitors also enjoy the museum’s nature trail, gift shop and picnic area.