1491’s Headline 2019 American Indian Arts Celebration
South Florida residents looking to experience Seminole culture should visit the iconic Florida Everglades and the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum. Owned and operated by the Seminole Tribe of Florida, this museum is located on the Big Cypress Reservation near Clewiston. In fact, the museum is gearing up for its biggest event of the year – the American Indian Arts Celebration (AIAC) on November 1st and 2nd! The Native American sketch comedy troupe known as the 1491s will be headlining the event and making their first AIAC appearance. This is one event that should be on your “fun list” for a day (or two) of non-stop action, Native arts and entertainment.
A Native American Celebration for Everyone
The American Indian Arts Celebration is huge and allows for learning outside of museum doors. It celebrates Native arts and culture in an engaging and intimate way. Open to all ages, it’s a wonderful family event as children are especially fond of the activities. This year they will have plenty to do. Let them explore the boardwalk or see live alligator wrestling. Dancers, music, demonstrations and food vendors/trucks will also be a big part of this year’s event. One of the event’s most unique elements is the ability to absorb Seminole and other Native American cultures. Here, you will easily find someone telling stories, explaining traditions or sharing Native Arts, while being tantalized by the history and legends of the Seminole Tribe of Florida.
A Look Back at the 2018 AIAC
Last year’s event drew in a record crowd of 2,500 visitors. This included 1,000 students from Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, Hendry, and Collier counties. Celebration patrons enjoyed traditional Native dancing, music, arts, canoe carving, gator wrestling, and delicious and interesting foods like fresh cut swamp cabbage. With entertainment on the main stage, Native American vendors brought their woodwork, basketry, photography, jewelry artistry and more. The kid-friendly festival also made sure to highlight special activities for youth, such as the incorporation of “take-away crafts”. The event starts on Friday each year so schools can visit on field trips. If last year is any indication, the 2019 American Indian Arts Celebration is sure to be even bigger!
When and Where
The AIAC is open to all and encourages people of all cultures and backgrounds to attend. The event will be held November 1st and 2nd, 2019 from 10am-5pm. It will be at the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum on the Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation. Tickets are $10 for adults, $7.50 for seniors and students, and free for children aged 4 and under. This includes admission to the museum (which boasts over 180,000 unique artifacts and archival items). Parking is free. Stayed tuned to all AIAC updates by following the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum on Facebook.
