The University of Alabama Moundville Archaeological Park will become a “City of Life” as it celebrates the cultures of Southeastern Native Americans at the 35th annual Moundville Native American Festival Oct. 4-7.
Festival attendees will have the chance to meet Native American artisans, see traditional dances, listen to stories and music, experience the opening of a new exhibit inside the Jones Archaeological Museum, and support local and Native American businesses at the ancient city on the Black Warrior River.
Visitors will learn through demonstrations on Native American lifeways and art, storytelling, music, and classes on flintknapping and movement. The children’s area will feature lessons on how to play stickball and other activities. The festival will also feature stickball games Friday and Saturday.
The Jones Archaeological Museum’s new exhibit, “Wearing History: Native American Adornment Past and Present,” will highlight Native American regalia from Moundville’s descendant communities.
In addition to the educational value of the Moundville Native American Festival, there will also be an array of vendors and food trucks, including the always delicious and popular fry bread tacos.
The Moundville Native American Festival is one of the largest celebrations of Native American communities in the state of Alabama. It is a unique experience where students and families alike can learn from First Americans, gaining new perspectives about our world. The festival doesn’t just include people whose ancestors built Moundville, but all Native American communities that call Alabama their homeland.
“Descendants of Moundville’s people are still here today,” said Dr. Clay Nelson, director of Moundville Archaeological Park. “Native American cultures are still thriving and connected to their ancestors in unique ways. The festival helps us celebrate that and learn more about that connection.”
Admission is $10 for adults, students and seniors. Children 5 years and under are free. Tickets are only available for purchase at the event.
Moundville Native American Festival hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
For more information, visit the Moundville Native American Festival website.
