Indigenous Peoples Celebration to be held at Machicomoco State Park

Educational displays and demonstrations provided by local tribes and community partners

GLOUCESTER, VA – Machicomoco State Park is hosting its annual Indigenous Peoples Celebration from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Interpretative Area on November 4, 2023. Learn about local tribes, experience traditional dance and drums and interact with the exhibitors at this unique event. 

“This event provides a great opportunity for our guests to immerse themselves in the culture and history of the Indigenous Peoples of Virginia,” said Machicomoco State Park Manager Terry Sims. “The park is rich in culture and visitors can take part in hands-on demonstrations while they learn about traditional plant uses and the wildlife and natural resource management used by the Virginia Indians. Our goal is that visitors will continue to explore and learn about the Indigenous Peoples of Virginia and their story of persistence.” 

The celebration will include dance performances at 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. by the Rappahannock Native American Dancers & Maskapow Drum Group. The performances will be held at the Demonstration Circle of the Interpretive Area. 

The event gathers diverse community educators from across sectors including Virginia Tribes to celebrate and acknowledge Indigenous history, culture, and persistence in the Commonwealth. Educational vendors will be spread out through the interpretive trails for a more interactive experience. There will be demonstrations of flint knapping, cordage twisting, dugout canoe burning and fishnet tying that provide a fun opportunity to learn new skills. 

“This year we have more exhibitors, and we appreciate the participation from the community as they see the importance of bringing this event to the public,” said Machicomoco State Park Chief Ranger Josh Mazzatenta. “We are excited to share this event with the public and support the stories of the Indigenous Peoples in Virginia.”  

The event is free, but there is a $5 parking fee. For more information about the event or the park, call Machicomoco State Park at (804) 642-2419.