The Crossroads of Native Country Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration
Celebrate Indigenous Turtle Island cultures in Denver's City Park, Oct 12, 11:30–5. Open to all and family friendly.
The Crossroads of Native Country Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration
Monday, October 12, 2026 · 11:30 AM – 5:00 PM
City Park · 2001 Colorado Blvd, Denver, CO
Near the Denver Museum of Nature & Science
Since time immemorial, this land now called Denver has been a crossroads where Nations from across Turtle Island meet, trade, and share their stories. On Indigenous Peoples Day, we continue that tradtion and gather to honor Indigenous cultures, from the Plains and Mountain West to the Southwest, the Pacific Northwest, the Southeast, Northeast, and beyond. Denver is home to one of the most diverse urban Native communities in the country, with families representing many Nations, and this event reflects that, honoring the cultures, artistry, and living traditions of Indigenous peoples across Turtle Island (North America).
Everyone is welcome. This This celebration is is a public, community celebration for Native and non-Native people alike. Whether you are a longtime Denver resident, a newcomer, a family looking for a friendly outing, a teacher looking for an authentic way to mark the holiday, or a visitor exploring the city, you are welcome here to join in and celebrate the many Indigenous cultures of Turtle Island together.
Family Friendly
The celebration is designed for all ages. Bring the kids, grandparents, and friends, and spend the afternoon in the park with community.
What to Expect
Native artists and vendors, performances, incredible food, family activities, community resource tables, a community round dance, great music, and great people.
Start the Day With the Parade
The celebration follows the Crossroads of Native Country Indigenous Peoples Day Parade, which runs from 9:30 to 11:00 AM. The parade begins near Denver East High School and travels through City Park to the celebration site. Join the procession or watch from along the route, then stay for the afternoon.
End the Day With the First Nations Coming Together
The celebration closes with a Four Directions Turtle Island Inter-Tribal Dance, a moment that brings the whole day together. Members of First Nations from across Turtle Island are invited into the circle to dance side by side, whatever their Nation, region, or tradition. It is a powerful show of unity, collaboration, and appreciation among Indigenous peoples, and a living reminder of why this land for thousands of years has been the crossroads of Native Country. Everyone is welcome to gather around and witness this closing ceremony. Plan to stay through the end of the day so you don't miss it.
Presented By
Native Futures, Denver Indian Family Resource Center, Denver Indian Center, Denver Indian Health and Family Services, Spirit of the Sun, Hear Us Now See Us Now, Blue Sky Wealth Group, and Create áyA.
Lineup
Crisosto Apache
Melissa Ivey
Redhawk Express
Good to know
Highlights
- 5 hours 30 minutes
- all ages
- In person
- Free parking
Refund Policy
Location
City Park
2001 Colorado Blvd
City Park Denver, CO 80205
How do you want to get there?
Agenda
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Opening Ceremonies
The celebration opens with the Honor Guard presenting the flags, followed by an opening prayer from Gloria Yellow Horse and opening remarks from Kristina Maldonado Bad Hand. Denver City Council will read the city's Indigenous Peoples' Day proclamation and share remarks, and poet Crisosto Apache will offer a poetry reading. Mayor Mike Johnston will speak on the meaning of Indigenous Peoples' Day in Denver, followed by remarks from Native community leader Tomas Lopez. The program continues with a dance demonstration featuring Redhawk Express on drum alongside Grupo Taloc and the HUNSUN Educational Dance Group. The day closes with First Nations Coming Together, an inter-Tribal dance inviting members of Nations from across Turtle Island into the circle, with all guests welcome to watch.
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Day Activities
Spend the afternoon exploring work from Native artists and vendors, with handmade pieces and goods from across Turtle Island. Enjoy live performances and great music throughout the day, and bring your appetite for incredible food. Families will find activities for kids of all ages, and community resource tables will connect visitors with local Native organizations and services. Everyone is welcome to join hands in a community round dance, a highlight that brings guests together in one circle. Most of all, come for the great people and the chance to celebrate Indigenous cultures alongside Denver's Native community and neighbors from across the city.
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Closing Ceremonies
The day comes to a close with the Four Directions Turtle Island Inter-Tribal Dance led by Sid Whiting, Jr., inviting members of First Nations from across Turtle Island into the circle in a powerful demonstration of unity, collaboration, and appreciation, with all guests welcome to watch. Ernest House, Jr. will then offer closing remarks to honor the day and the community that came together to celebrate it. The flags will be retired, and Rick Williams will close the celebration with a final prayer, sending everyone home in a good way.