For over 10,000 years before Yellowstone became a national park, it was a place where Native Americans lived, hunted, fished, gathered plants, quarried obsidian, and used thermal waters for religious and medicinal purposes. Today, there are at least 27 Tribes who have historic and modern connections to the lands and resources now found within the park. Indigenous cultural events in Yellowstone:Check the online calendar, NPS App, or at visitor centers for additional daily activities and events happening throughout the park. Yellowstone Tribal Heritage CenterMay 20 - October 11, 2024 | Old Faithful area | View schedule of presenters Yellowstone Revealed 2024 by Mountain Time ArtsJune 14 - September 9, 2024 | Park entrances | Learn more Voices of Yellowstone: First Peoples CelebrationAugust 4-10, 2024 | Gardiner, Montana | View detailed schedule of events"Voices of Yellowstone: First Peoples Celebration" will take place August 4-10, 2024, in Gardiner, Montana. This event, hosted by Yellowstone Forever in partnership with Yellowstone National Park and in collaboration with the Pretty Shield Foundation, Rocky Mountain Tribal Leaders Council, and Gardiner Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center, aims to honor and celebrate the diverse cultures of the Indigenous Peoples of Yellowstone—past, present, and future. The public is invited to participate in this free, week-long event. An opening ceremony on Sunday, August 4 will feature a blessing, drumming, and opening remarks. Educational opportunities throughout the week will include illuminated teepees, cultural demonstrations, an Indigenous art market, a night of Native games, cultural tours, and a community potluck. The celebration will be brought to a poignant and powerful close with a closing ceremony on Saturday, August 10, which will feature guest speakers, a drum circle, and the final lighting of the illuminated teepees. For more information and a detailed schedule of events, visit Yellowstone Forever’s website. Thank you to everyone who participated in Indigenous cultural events in 2024! Stay tuned for events taking place in 2025.More InformationPhotos of Indigenous Cultural Events
View photos of Indigenous cultural events in Yellowstone National Park. Tribal Affairs & Partnerships
Yellowstone is the traditional shared homelands of many Tribal Nations whose traditions have shaped the landscape through generations. History & Culture
Explore the rich human and ecological stories that continue to unfold. Plan Your Visit
Yellowstone is seasonal. Plan ahead to make your time in Yellowstone safe, fun, and rewarding! |
Last updated: October 15, 2024