Machicomoco State Park will hold an Indigenous Peoples’ Celebration from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 5 at the Interpretative Area of the park, located in Hayes.

“This is a great opportunity for our park visitors to immerse themselves in the culture and history of the Indigenous Peoples of Virginia,” said Machicomoco Chief Ranger Josh Mazzatenta. “The park is rich in culture and visitors can take part in hands-on demonstrations while they learn about traditional plant uses and the wildlife and natural resource management used by the Virginia Indians.”

The celebration will include dance performances at 10:30 a.m., noon and 1:30 p.m. by the Rappahannock Dance Group and Maskapow Drum Group. The performances will be held at the Demonstration Circle of the Interpretive Area.

Educational displays will be hosted by the Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia, the Mattaponi Indian Tribe and Reservation and the Kiskiack Chickahominy Tribe. Thirteen additional education vendors will spread out through the interpretive trails and demonstrations will includeflint knapping, cordage twisting, dugout canoe burning and fishnet tying.

“This year we have 16 exhibitors, which is more than last year, and so we appreciate the participation from the community as they see the importance of bringing this event to the public,” said Mazzatenta. “We are excited to share this event with the public and help tell the stories of the Indigenous Peoples in Virginia.”

The event is free, but there is a $5 parking fee. For more information about the event or the park, call Machicomoco State Park at 804-642-2419.