Minnesota’s vibrant Native community will once again come together to celebrate heritage, culture, and community with the official kickoff parade for American Indian Month on Wednesday, May 1.
Now in its 50+ year tradition, American Indian Month honors Indigenous contributions, resilience, and intergenerational strength through public events, open houses, and cultural celebrations.
Theme: “Strong Like Our Ancestors”
This year’s theme—“Strong Like Our Ancestors”—was created by the Minneapolis Public Schools American Indian Youth Council ~ Ogichida Oyate. It serves as a powerful tribute to the legacy, leadership, and love passed down through Indigenous generations.
Parade and community gathering
- 9 a.m. – Community gathering begins at Cedar Field Park at Little Earth (2500 Cedar Ave., Minneapolis)
- 10 a.m. – Parade steps off and proceeds to the Indian Health Board (2020 Minnehaha Ave., Minneapolis)
- 10:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. – Post-parade celebration with lunch and a live concert
Evening powwow celebration
The day’s events will culminate in a community powwow at the Minneapolis American Indian Center (1530 E. Franklin Ave.), from 3 to 7 p.m. Dancers, drummers, families, and elders will gather in a joyful expression of cultural pride and tradition.
Open to all
The parade and all accompanying events are free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to walk, drum, dance, and celebrate the rich heritage of the Indigenous people whose stories and strength are deeply rooted in this land.
🎟️ Want to walk in the parade? Sign up here: [parade registration link]