Indian Market and Festival at Eiteljorg
Each year Eitejorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art invites more than 150 artists from 60 tribes from around the United States to Indianapolis for a two-day festival celebrating heritage and culture through art, food, music, dancing, demonstrations, and more at Indian Market. This exclusive one-of-a-kind cultural experience is one of the best in the Midwest.
To kick off this experience, members of AGAVE, Eiteljorg’s young professionals network, hosted a preview party on June 26th. Complete with oversized glow sticks, beverages, dancing and desserts with entertainment provided by the 1491s and DJ Kyle Long. Held under “The Sails” on the Christel DeHann Family Terrace, guests were able to meet and speak with artists along the canal.
The 1491s were quite the show providing sketch comedy acts based around their Native American heritage. This unique group has received national attention for using performance art and social media to build a following that challenges perceptions around Indigenous cultures. In their own words: “We are based in the wooded ghettos of Minnesota and buffalo grass of Oklahoma. We are a gaggle of Indians chock full of cynicism and splashed with a good dose of Indigenous satire… We mooned Chris Columbus when he landed…”
The following day Indian Market and Festival opened to the public and presented a variety of programming for all ages on the ground of both Eiteljorg Museum and Military Park across the canal. Featuring authentic Native American storytelling by The Leaf Arrow Storytellers and Storyteller Teresa Webb, attendees were immersed in a rich experience that celebrated culture, traditions, family life, and Native American respect for Mother Earth. Additionally, bread making demonstrations were featured from different tribes.
Our venue partners truly have unique and interesting program opportunities such as Indian Market. Kahn’s Catering is a proud supporter of each of our exclusive museum venues’ work and enjoys taking part in these opportunities when they arise.
