BIG CYPRESS SEMINOLE RESERVATION – The Seminole Tribe of Florida’ Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum proudly announces the return of the American Indigenous Arts Celebration (AIAC) on Friday, Nov. 6, and Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026, on the museum’s festival grounds on the Big Cypress Reservation. The event will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both days and admission and parking are complimentary. This vibrant two-day festival promises a dynamic showcase of Native arts, culture, and heritage.

*Note this is the last opportunity to visit the Museum exhibit space before it undergoes an extensive 18-month redesign project.

A live Powwow & Hoop Dance Competition is only one of the highlights of the American Indigenous Arts Celebration. [Photo by Robert Doyle]

The celebration begins with a Grand Entry Powwow led by Seminole Medicine Man Bobby Henry, along with Tribal dignitaries, Native drummers, dancers, and hoop dance performers. Visitors will be immersed in cultural traditions while enjoying a schedule packed with entertainment for the whole family including Pharaoh’s Wildlife Kingdom critter show, alligator wrestling with Billy Walker, and a hoop dance competition.

Fashion lovers will experience two unforgettable runway moments during the celebration. On Friday, guests will enjoy a special showcase presented by students of the Seminole Tribe’s Ahfachkee School. On Saturday, Seminole designer Lenora Roberts will be joined by internationally recognized Indigenous designer Rebekah Jarvey, an Emmy‑nominated fashion designer, fashion show director, model, emcee, cultural advocate, and artisan. Jarvey represents Chippewa Cree and Blackfeet heritage as an enrolled member of the Chippewa Cree Tribe.

Additional highlights include a live painting demonstration by Seminole artist Elgin Jumper, a live Powwow & Hoop Dance Competition with world-renowned Hoop Dancer Tony Duncan, the Iron Horse Dancers, and Native Pride Productions. Guests can enjoy free VIP photo opportunities, plus meet and greet with the newly crowned Miss Florida Seminole and Junior Miss Seminole 2026.

Throughout the event, visitors can shop from authentic Native craft vendors and artists, enjoy traditional food vendors, and take advantage of free admission to the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum, home to an extraordinary collection of Seminole history and culture.

“The American Indigenous Arts Celebration is one of the best opportunities to experience Native culture, living traditions, and artistry in one place,” said Museum Director, Gordon Wareham. “It is both a celebration and an invitation to learn, connect, and honor Indigenous heritage.”

For more information, please visit https://www.ahtahthiki.com/AIAC/  or call 863-902-1113.