Annual Native American Celebration on Oct. 18 and 19, 2025.

LANCASTER – California State Park’s Antelope Valley Indian Museum State Historic Park (SHP) invites the public to join its annual Native American Celebration on Oct. 18 and 19. The event will feature captivating performances, traditional storytelling, and arts and crafts exhibitions celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Native American peoples.

The event will kick off with a blessing by Chumash/Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians elders Ted and Dennis Garcia. Throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy performances and a variety of interactive activities.

Here are details about the event:

WHAT: Native American Celebration

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 18, and Sunday, Oct. 19 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

COST: $10 for those over 12 years old; free for children 12 and under.

WHERE: Antelope Valley Indian Museum SHP

15701 East Avenue M, Lancaster, CA 93535

DIRECTIONS: From State Route 14 in Lancaster, go east on Avenue K to 150th Street East. Turn right and go south for two miles to Avenue M. Turn left and go east on Avenue M for one mile to reach the museum.

Below are some of the activities attendees can enjoy:

· Music and Dance: Enjoy hoop dancing by Sage Romero (Paiute/Taos Pueblo), traditional songs by Kaelene Ashmore (Diné), Aztec dancing by Danza Azteca

Xochipilli, Iroquois Smoke Dancers, and music from Blue Star, a Northern Style drum group.

· 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 fascinating process of making arrowheads with expert Mike Thompson.

· Art, Crafts and More: Explore and purchase handcrafted Native American jewelry, beadwork, gourd art, and crafts created by 11 Native artists. The Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians will share information about their resources and programs.

· Traditional Native Cuisine: Don't miss the chance to try fry bread, available for purchase from the Wildhorse Native American Association

For more information, please call the museum at (661) 946-3055 (711 TTY relay service) or visit its website at avim.parks.ca.gov. Follow the museum on Facebook at facebook.com/AVIndianMuseum.

California State Parks supports equal access. If you need reasonable modification or special accommodation for the event, please contact Peggy Ronning at (661) 946-3055