Catch the Excitement of the 15th Annual American Indian Heritage Celebration!
Scores of American Indian dancers will fill the plaza outside the N.C. Museum of History in Raleigh this Saturday, Nov. 20, at noon. The brilliant colors of their traditional regalia will transform the space as they move to the rhythm of drum groups nearby. With beadwork glistening in the sunlight and ribbons flowing, their dance steps will represent centuries of American Indian heritage and culture.
This lively scene is part of the 15th Annual American Indian Heritage Celebration. From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the museum’s largest annual event showcases musicians, artists, storytellers, dancers and others from North Carolina’s eight state-recognized tribes. The day’s activities include performances, craft demonstrations and workshops, hands-on activities, food and much more. Admission and parking are free.
Learn about the contributions of the state’s American Indians, past and present. With something for all ages, it is the perfect way to celebrate American Indian Heritage Month. For more information and a complete schedule, go to ncmuseumofhistory.org or call 919-807-7900.
The American Indian Heritage Celebration is supported by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians; Food Lion; Harrah’s Cherokee Casino and Hotel; IBM; Lumbee tribe; N.C. Commission of Indian Affairs; N.C. Museum of History Associates; and United Arts Council of Raleigh and Wake County, with funds from the United Arts campaign, the N.C. Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts, which believes a great nation deserves great art. Additional funding is provided by the Haliwa-Saponi tribe; Thomas, Judy & Tucker, P.A.; UNC American Indian Center; Native American Resource Center at UNC-Pembroke; Eastern Band of Cherokee Tribal Gaming Commission; Arrowhead Graphics; and Lumbee Guaranty Bank.
And There’s More!
Don’t miss a performance by Dark Water Rising on Nov. 20, beginning at 5 p.m. after the 15th Annual American Indian Heritage Celebration. Nominated for three Native American Music Awards in 2010, Dark Water Rising is named for the swampy waters of the Lumber River in Robeson County, the home of its members. The band’s unique sound is a blend of soul, alternative rock, blues, country and hip-hop.
Tickets are $5 in advance, and $8 at the door; children under 12 get in free. For tickets, call 919-807-7992.
Lead singer Charly Lowry was a 2004 semifinalist on “American Idol.” A Lumbee tribe member, she also plays acoustic guitar. Dark Water Rising is reminiscent of 1970s and 1980s bands, such as Fleetwood Mac and Heart. The group’s lyrics explore many themes and also express a sentiment for the recognition of the Lumbee people. Check out a sampling of the band’s music on darkwaterrising.net.
The N.C. Museum of History’s hours are Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. Admission is free. The museum is part of the Division of State History Museums, Office of Archives and History, an agency of the N.C. Department of Cultural Resources. The department’s Web site is www.ncculture.com.