Native American Green Corn Festival

In recognition of this time-honored tradition, the Institute for American Indian Studies, located in Washington, CT, is holding their 17th annual Green Corn Festival on Sunday, August 14, 2022 from Noon to 4:00 pm at Riverwalk Pavilion, 11a School Street, in Washington, CT.

Many of us celebrate the sweetness of corn that begins to ripen in early August as a high point of summer’s harvest. We are not alone in celebrating the golden deliciousness of corn. For the Native American community, corn is an integral part of their annual lifecycle. For generations, many Native American communities have welcomed the season when corn ripens with a celebration.

The public is invited to join Museum Staff as they welcome the first corn of the summer 2022 season with flute music by Allan Madahbee (Ojibwe), drumming, dancing, children’s activities curated by the Institute’s staff, and traditional stories told by a professional Native American Storyteller. For shoppers and collectors, don’t miss the vendors that are selling Native American-inspired arts and crafts at a variety of price points. All the festivities are taking place in a beautiful park with a sheltered wooden pavilion, picnic tables, and plenty of free parking.

A highlight of the Green Corn Festival is the Native Nations Dance Troupe led by Erin Meeches, from the Schaghticoke Tribal Nation. Each dance performed has an uplifting and unique story or purpose. Some use movements that imitate animals and others represent an aspect of cultural significance. These traditional dances are sure to delight because they evoke the beauty, honor, and tradition of Native People. The Quahog Bay Drum Group led by Devin Wixon from the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribal Nation will accompany the dances. The dancing will take place at 1 p.m. and at 3 p.m.

Admission for this event held rain or shine, is $15 for Adults, $12 for seniors, $10 for children, $10 for IAIS Members, and free for members’ children. Pre-registration is greatly appreciated. Please visit the Institute’s website to register via Eventbrite.