Thousands of Students Experience Native American Culture at Annual Southeastern Indian Festival

The Poarch Band of Creek Indians recently hosted more than 3,000 students at the annual Southeastern Indian Festival, a dynamic educational event held on the Tribe’s reservation in Atmore. The multi-day festival welcomed 3,055 students from 32 schools and educational organizations across the region, offering them a hands-on journey through Native American culture, history, and traditions.

Each year, the free event provides a platform for cultural exchange, and this year was no exception. Students explored a wide range of immersive experiences, including traditional stickball games, stomp dancing, Creek pottery-making, and storytelling passed down through generations.

Cultural ambassadors and demonstrators from multiple Tribal nations participated, offering live exhibitions and sharing their personal knowledge and practices. The goal was clear: to foster awareness and appreciation for the heritage of Southeastern Native communities.

“We were proud to share our culture with so many young people and educators,” said Chris “Ding Ding” Blackburn, Tribal Events Planner. “The Southeastern Indian Festival is about more than performances and displays—it’s about creating connections and keeping traditions alive for future generations.”

Throughout the festival, students were encouraged to ask questions and engage with presenters, transforming the learning experience into an open dialogue about Native identity and values. For many, it was their first direct encounter with Native American cultural practices in such an interactive setting.

On the festival’s final day, the public was invited to attend during special hours. Families and community members explored educational exhibits, sampled traditional tribal cuisine, and browsed an artisan market featuring handcrafted goods.

Organizers have already begun planning for next year’s celebration. The 2026 Southeastern Indian Festival is scheduled for April 8–10, and the Poarch Creek Indians aim to expand the event’s reach and impact even further.

For more information, visit the Tribe’s website. To book your school group for this free educational experience in 2026, contact CulturalInfo@pci-nsn.gov.