Indigenous People's Day

in an open air, paved plaza. four Hopi youth are dancing. In the background another group of four is chanting and drumming.
Dupkia Hoyam Hopi Dancers dancing at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center Plaza.

NPS

Join us for a celebration of Indigenous Peoples’ Day at Grand Canyon National Park from October 12 to 14. This series of events promises to engage visitors and residents alike in meaningful discussions, cultural performances, and a deeper understanding of Indigenous heritage.

Let's celebrate Indigenous culture and connect with our community. We invite everyone to join us in honoring the rich heritage and contributions of Indigenous peoples at Grand Canyon. Don’t miss this chance to learn, share, and celebrate together!

Presentation Day - Visitor Center Theater (October 12th)

  • The festivities begin on Saturday, October 12, at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center Theater with a Presentation Day featuring esteemed speakers. Noah Collins, an advocate for Indigenous health, David Martínez, a professor and cultural representative, and Dr. Lyla June Johnston, a celebrated Indigenous musician and organizer, will share their insights and experiences, enriching our understanding of contemporary Indigenous issues.
  • Time: 1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
  • Location: South Rim - Grand Canyon Visitor Center Theater

Panel Discussion - Visitor Center Plaza - Outdoors (October 13th)

  • On Sunday, October 13, Outdoors on the Visitor Center Plaza join us for a panel discussion featuring esteemed speakers Noah Collins, an advocate for Indigenous health, David Martínez, a professor and cultural representative, and Dr. Lyla June Johnston, a celebrated Indigenous musician and organizer, will share their insights and experiences, enriching our understanding of contemporary Indigenous issues.
  • Attendees will have the opportunity to engage directly with the presenters, fostering an interactive dialogue about cultural representation and resilience.
  • Time: 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  • Location: South Rim - Grand Canyon Visitor Center Plaza, next to the Visitor Center Theater.

Prayers & Dance Performances (October 14th)

Along the Canyon Rim Trail by Hopi House - Outdoors

  • A series of dance performances along the Canyon Rim Trail in front of Hopi House. The day will begin with an opening prayer by Phyllis Kachinhongva (12:15 p.m.) followed by captivating dance performances by ShanDien LaRance, Hoop Dancer (12:30 p.m.) and the CBQ Apache Crown Dancers (1:30 pm), showcasing the rich traditions of Indigenous dance.
  • Time: 12:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
  • Location: South Rim - Rim Trail by Hopi House, next to the Verkamps Visitor Center.

Visitor Center Plaza - Outdoors

  • Captivating dance performances by ShanDien LaRance, Hoop Dancer (3 p.m.) and the CBQ Apache Crown Dancers (4 p.m.), showcasing the rich traditions of Indigenous dance. The festivities will conclude with a closing prayer honoring the spirit of the day by Phyllis Kachinhongva (5 p.m.).
  • Time: 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
  • Location: South Rim - Grand Canyon Visitor Center Plaza, next to the Visitor Center Theater.
 

 
Prehistoric granaries along the Colorado River.
Associated Tribes

Eleven contemporary tribes have cultural links to the area and call Grand Canyon home.

Nampeyo working on pottery inside
Native Art and Activism

Native American individuals from Grand Canyon's affiliated tribes have long used art for cultural practice and as a part of activism.

A adobe pueblo building with two signs in the front.
Hopi House History

The Hopi House pays tribute to the Hopi and their ancestors that have inhabited the Grand Canyon for centuries.

Last updated: October 3, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

PO Box 129
Grand Canyon, AZ 86023

Phone:

928-638-7888

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