Special Events
Annual Native American Celebration 2026
Native American Celebration Returns Oct. 17-18 to Antelope Valley Indian Museum
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. 17 and 18. The event will feature traditional songs and dances, captivating 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 Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians/ Chumash elder Ted 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: October 17 and 18, 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) and Caitlin Ashmore (Diné), 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 (Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians/ Chumash).
• 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.
• Art, Crafts and More: Explore and purchase handcrafted Native American jewelry, beadwork, ceramics, gourd art, and crafts created by Native artists.
• Traditional Native Cuisine: Don't miss the chance to try fry bread, available for purchase from the Wildhorse Native American Association.
In addition to the performances and activities, visitors can also tour the museum, with knowledgeable docents on hand to provide insights. Mark your calendars for this enriching celebration of Native American culture and community.
Please Note: Pets are not allowed in the museum. Service animals are welcome per California State Parks' Service Animals Policy.
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.