Cherokee Heritage Center offers weekend of activities during 61st Cherokee National Holiday
Native American arts and crafts fair, Cherokee Homecoming Art Show among weekend activities
TAHLEQUAH, Okla. —The Cherokee Heritage Center is treating guests to three days of fun-filled activities during the 61st Annual Cherokee National Holiday this Labor Day weekend, Aug. 30 through Sept. 1.
“The Cherokee National Holiday is a special weekend that brings thousands of people to the Tahlequah area to celebrate the rich history of the Cherokee Nation,” said Cheryl Parrish, interim executive director of the Cherokee Heritage Center. “Guests who visit us will be able to learn about our early history by visiting Diligwa, our new ancient village, and will also get the chance to view all the great art we have on display.”
The Cherokee Heritage Center’s free admission weekend gives guests the opportunity to visit the museum, the Adams Corner Rural Village, the Trail of Tears exhibit and the Cherokee Homecoming Art Show. In lieu of charging museum admission, Cherokee Heritage Center officials will accept donations at the entrance.
Guided tours of Diligwa costs $2 and will be offered every 30 minutes from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.
Guests can also enjoy the only all Native American arts and crafts fair presented during the Cherokee National Holiday, with more than 80 Native American vendors featuring original paintings, prints, jewelry, basketry, beadwork, traditional clothing, flutes, pottery and quilts, among many other items.
A variety of games, shopping, food and exhibits will also be presented as part of the Cherokee National Holiday weekend each day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The First Families of the Cherokee Nation will be hosting their annual reunion on Sept. 1. Members are encouraged to attend. Others interested in becoming members may learn more about the organization at the Cherokee Heritage Center booth or on their website.
The Cherokee Heritage Center sits on a 49-acre complex and is located at 21192 S. Keeler Drive, Park Hill, Okla. The center is home to thousands of tribal historical objects, documents and photographs. During the year, guests enjoy various art shows, exhibits and educational programs.
