National Museum of the American Indian

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DC | Service and Sacrifice: Veterans Day 2026

One-Time Events Join the National Museum of the American Indian in honoring the enduring and distinguished service of Native Americans in every branch of the US military. Throughout the day, visitors of all ages can learn more about Native military service and honor veterans through presentations, a short film, hands-on activities, various information tables, and more.   Portions of the day’s events (marked with * below) will be livestreamed, watch at AmericanIndian.si.edu/livestream.   SCHEDULE OF EVENTS, Level 1, Potomac Atrium, 10:30-11 AM | Posting of the Colors, Welcome*Members of the Native American Women Warriors (NAWW) will present the colors to begin the day's programming. Ralph and Dennis Zotigh (both Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) will share an Honor Song for Native veterans along with an opening prayer, and welcome remarks from museum leadership. 11 AM-12 PM | WWII Indigenous Code Talkers: The Contributions of Pueblo Indian Language Speakers*Dr. Christine Sims (Acoma Pueblo), Associate Professor in… Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Online. Event Location: Level 1: Potomac Atrium, Rasmuson Theater, Level 3: imagiNATIONS Activity Center, Outdoors: Welcome Plaza, National Native American Veterans Memorial. Online Link: https://www.americanindian.si.edu/livestream. Cost: Free. Categories: Lectures & Discussions. Webcasts & Online. Kids & Families. Films. Accessibility: ASL-interpreted program. Captioning. Saturday, November 7, 2026, 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM. For more info visit americanindian.si.edu.

NY | Native Sounds Downtown: Agalisiga “The Chuj” Mackey

One-Time Events Welcome Cherokee country and blues musician Agalisiga “The Chuj” Mackey to the Native Sounds Downtown stage at our New York museum this November! Performances begin at 11 AM, 1 PM, and 3 PM.   Agalisiga "The Chuj" Mackey is a musician and educator from the Cherokee Nation in Northeast Oklahoma. Mackey spent his early years in the traditional Cherokee community of Kenwood, OK, where his mother’s family settled after the forced removal of Cherokee people from what is now North Carolina. Mackey later moved to Tahlequah, capital of the Cherokee Nation, to become fluent in the Cherokee language at the Cherokee Immersion School.   Mackey grew up participating in traditional Cherokee ceremonies and singing ceremonial songs. He also draws inspiration from the “Father of Country Music” Jimmie Rodgers and hill country blues musician R.L. Burnside. He writes and sings original compositions in the Cherokee language in his deep baritone voice, melding classic country and blues. In addition to his artistic endeavors,… Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 2, Great Hall. Cost: FREE. Categories: Performances. Kids & Families. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Saturday, November 7, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.

DC | Story Time

Ongoing Tours & Activities Families are invited to an interactive story time featuring a children’s book by a Native author, illustrator, or created in collaboration with an Indigenous community. They will have the opportunity to engage with objects from the museum's Teaching Collection such as photographs, textiles, or natural materials that can deepen their understanding of the community represented in the story, along with a craft or other activity.  *Due to limited capacity in our spaces, tickets may be needed to enter the Activity Center and therefore the Story room (limited to 25 persons max). Please see staff at the entrance desk of the imagiNATIONS Activity Center on Level 3. **Recommended for visitors ages 3-9 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. ***Schedule subject to change without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: imagiNATIONS Activity Center, Level 3. Cost: Free. Categories: Kids & Families. Saturday, November 7, 2026, 11:15 AM – 11:45 AM.

ONLINE | 2026 Online Native Knowledge 360° Teach-In: Cultural Sovereignty on the 250th

One-Time Events The annual Online Native Knowledge 360° Teach-In, hosted by the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI) in collaboration with Teaching for Change, is an opportunity for educators around the world to access classroom resources from NMAI’s online education portal Native Knowledge 360° the Zinn Education Project, and more. This event will be hosted ONLINE via Zoom. Cost: $15 Teachers select two workshop breakout sessions that include relevant and resource-rich experiences to support effective use of American Indian-focused classroom lessons and resources from Teaching for Change and NMAI. The goal of the Teach-In is to support awareness of the museum’s Native Knowledge 360° (NK360°) national education initiative and its classroom lessons to promote improved teaching about American Indian communities. Teachers play a crucial role in advancing the museum’s work to transform popular understandings of Native history, cultures, and contemporary lives. Professional development credit will be pro… Location Icon: Online. Event Location: Online, via Zoom. Online Link: https://teachingforchange.app.neoncrm.com/forms/native-knowledge-360-online-teach-in-registration-530. Cost: $15, Registration required. Get Tickets/Register: https://teachingforchange.app.neoncrm.com/forms/native-knowledge-360-online-teach-in-registration-530. Categories: Webcasts & Online. Workshops. Lectures & Discussions. Accessibility: Captioning. Saturday, November 7, 2026, 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM.

NY | Native Sounds Downtown: Agalisiga “The Chuj” Mackey

One-Time Events Welcome Cherokee country and blues musician Agalisiga “The Chuj” Mackey to the Native Sounds Downtown stage at our New York museum this November! Performances begin at 11 AM, 1 PM, and 3 PM.   Agalisiga "The Chuj" Mackey is a musician and educator from the Cherokee Nation in Northeast Oklahoma. Mackey spent his early years in the traditional Cherokee community of Kenwood, OK, where his mother’s family settled after the forced removal of Cherokee people from what is now North Carolina. Mackey later moved to Tahlequah, capital of the Cherokee Nation, to become fluent in the Cherokee language at the Cherokee Immersion School.   Mackey grew up participating in traditional Cherokee ceremonies and singing ceremonial songs. He also draws inspiration from the “Father of Country Music” Jimmie Rodgers and hill country blues musician R.L. Burnside. He writes and sings original compositions in the Cherokee language in his deep baritone voice, melding classic country and blues. In addition to his artistic endeavors,… Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 2, Great Hall. Cost: FREE. Categories: Performances. Kids & Families. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Saturday, November 7, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM.

DC | Look, Learn, Create: Water's Edge for Families

One-Time Events Join a museum educator for a family-friendly interactive tour of the Water's Edge: The Art of Truman Lowe exhibition! Visitors will engage with three of his artworks and can participate in guided discussions, and experience items from the museum's Teaching Collection. After finding inspiration from Truman Lowe’s artworks, families can continue into the imagiNATIONS Activity Center and create their own water-inspired artwork to take home. Recommended for children ages 4-10 and their families. All ages welcome. *Visitors 18 and under must be accompanied by an adult. First come, first served, capacity and supplies are limited. **This program can accommodate approximately 30 young visitors and their adult caregiver. Leading support provided by Bank of America. Major support provided by the Henry Luce Foundation. Generous support provided by the Terra Foundation for American Art and Ameriprise Financial. Additional support provided by John Lavine and Meryl Lipton Lavine, Greg and Cathy Tibbles, and Leslie A.… Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3: Exhibition Gallery, imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Kids & Families. Related Exhibition: Water's Edge: The Art of Truman Lowe. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Saturday, November 7, 2026, 1:15 PM – 2:00 PM.

NY | Native Sounds Downtown: Agalisiga “The Chuj” Mackey

One-Time Events Welcome Cherokee country and blues musician Agalisiga “The Chuj” Mackey to the Native Sounds Downtown stage at our New York museum this November! Performances begin at 11 AM, 1 PM, and 3 PM.   Agalisiga "The Chuj" Mackey is a musician and educator from the Cherokee Nation in Northeast Oklahoma. Mackey spent his early years in the traditional Cherokee community of Kenwood, OK, where his mother’s family settled after the forced removal of Cherokee people from what is now North Carolina. Mackey later moved to Tahlequah, capital of the Cherokee Nation, to become fluent in the Cherokee language at the Cherokee Immersion School.   Mackey grew up participating in traditional Cherokee ceremonies and singing ceremonial songs. He also draws inspiration from the “Father of Country Music” Jimmie Rodgers and hill country blues musician R.L. Burnside. He writes and sings original compositions in the Cherokee language in his deep baritone voice, melding classic country and blues. In addition to his artistic endeavors,… Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 2, Great Hall. Cost: FREE. Categories: Performances. Kids & Families. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Saturday, November 7, 2026, 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM.

DC | Cradleboards and Crawlers

Ongoing Tours & Activities Designed for early learners (ages 0-2), their caregivers, and families, this drop-in program offers young visitors the opportunity to enjoy a book by a Native author or illustrator read by a Museum Educator, engage in free play and sensory enrichment, and participate in other hands-on learning.  *Due to limited capacity in our spaces, tickets may be needed to enter the Activity Center and therefore the Story room (limited to 25 persons max). Please see staff at the entrance desk of the imagiNATIONS Activity Center on Level 3. **Recommended for visitors ages 0-2 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3, imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Kids & Families. Tuesday, November 10, 2026, 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Tuesday, November 10, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

DC | Cradleboards and Crawlers

Ongoing Tours & Activities Designed for early learners (ages 0-2), their caregivers, and families, this drop-in program offers young visitors the opportunity to enjoy a book by a Native author or illustrator read by a Museum Educator, engage in free play and sensory enrichment, and participate in other hands-on learning.  *Due to limited capacity in our spaces, tickets may be needed to enter the Activity Center and therefore the Story room (limited to 25 persons max). Please see staff at the entrance desk of the imagiNATIONS Activity Center on Level 3. **Recommended for visitors ages 0-2 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3, imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Kids & Families. Wednesday, November 11, 2026, 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Wednesday, November 11, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

DC |National Native American Veterans Memorial: Flame Lighting

One-Time Events In observance of Veterans Day, the flame of the National Native American Veterans Memorial will be lit from 3-5 PM on Wednesday, November 11, 2026. Visitors are invited to honor the service of Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian veterans at the memorial through quiet reflection. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Outdoors, National Native American Veterans Memorial. Cost: FREE. Categories: Celebrations. Wednesday, November 11, 2026, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM.

ONLINE | Native Cinema Showcase 2026

One-Time Events The National Museum of the American Indian’s Native Cinema Showcase is an annual celebration of the best in Native film. The festival celebrates the year's best of Indigenous film, spanning documentaries, features, animations, and short-format films by Indigenous filmmakers from across the Western Hemisphere and Arctic. All films will be available to stream free from November 13 (5 PM ET) to November 27, 2026 (5 PM ET). Location Icon: Online. Event Location: Online only. Online Link: https://americanindian.si.edu/native-cinema-showcase-2026/. Cost: Free. Categories: Celebrations. Films. Accessibility: Audio description. Captioning. Friday, November 13, 2026, 5:00 PM – Friday, November 27, 2026, 5:00 PM. For more info visit americanindian.si.edu.

DC | Always Becoming: Next Chapter

One-Time Events Join artist Nora Naranjo Morse (Kha’p’o Owenge ([Santa Clara Pueblo]), creator of Always Becoming, and the community that cares for the museum's ephemeral outdoor sculpture family, to learn about the project's evolution over the past two decades, and what the future holds. Learn about the art of clay, traditions of sustainability in Pueblo building techniques, and more. Visitors can enjoy family-friendly art activities, dance performances by the Zuni Olla Maidens, watch a short film, and multiple opportunities to hear from the artist, her family, and museum experts that have contributed to the care and revitalization of the sculptures. *Portions of the day's programming, marked with an asterisk, will be streaming live online at AmericanIndian.si.edu/livestream   SCHEDULE OF EVENTS   Level 1, Outdoors, 10:30 AM | Welcome CeremonyJoin the artist, her family, museum leadership, and tribal elders for a ceremony to honor Always Becoming with a song and brief remarks. ASL and CART Captions (CC) provided. 11:30… Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Online. Event Location: Outdoors, Level 1: Potomac Atrium, Level 3: imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Celebrations. Demonstrations. Films. Lectures & Discussions. Performances. Kids & Families. Webcasts & Online. Gallery Talks & Tours. Accessibility: ASL-interpreted program. Captioning. Wheelchair accessible. Saturday, November 14, 2026, 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM.

DC | Story Time

Ongoing Tours & Activities Families are invited to an interactive story time featuring a children’s book by a Native author, illustrator, or created in collaboration with an Indigenous community. They will have the opportunity to engage with objects from the museum's Teaching Collection such as photographs, textiles, or natural materials that can deepen their understanding of the community represented in the story, along with a craft or other activity.  *Due to limited capacity in our spaces, tickets may be needed to enter the Activity Center and therefore the Story room (limited to 25 persons max). Please see staff at the entrance desk of the imagiNATIONS Activity Center on Level 3. **Recommended for visitors ages 3-9 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. ***Schedule subject to change without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: imagiNATIONS Activity Center, Level 3. Cost: Free. Categories: Kids & Families. Saturday, November 14, 2026, 11:15 AM – 11:45 AM.

NY | Story Time

Ongoing Tours & Activities Families are invited to an interactive story time featuring a children’s book by a Native author, illustrator, or created in collaboration with an Indigenous community. They will have the opportunity to engage with objects from the museum's teaching collection, such as photographs, textiles, or natural materials, which can deepen their understanding of the community represented in the story, along with a craft or other activity. All are welcome. *Recommended for visitors ages 3–9 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. **Schedule subject to change. Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 1: imagiNATIONS Activity Center Classroom. Cost: Free. Categories: Kids & Families. Saturday, November 14, 2026, 11:15 AM – 11:45 AM.

CANCELLED - DC | Look, Learn, Create: Water's Edge for Families

One-Time Events Join a museum educator for a family-friendly interactive tour of the Water's Edge: The Art of Truman Lowe exhibition! Visitors will engage with three of his artworks and can participate in guided discussions, and experience items from the museum's Teaching Collection. After finding inspiration from Truman Lowe’s artworks, families can continue into the imagiNATIONS Activity Center and create their own water-inspired artwork to take home. Recommended for children ages 4-10 and their families. All ages welcome. *Visitors 18 and under must be accompanied by an adult. First come, first served, capacity and supplies are limited. **This program can accommodate approximately 30 young visitors and their adult caregiver. Leading support provided by Bank of America. Major support provided by the Henry Luce Foundation. Generous support provided by the Terra Foundation for American Art and Ameriprise Financial. Additional support provided by John Lavine and Meryl Lipton Lavine, Greg and Cathy Tibbles, and Leslie A.… Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3: Exhibition Gallery, imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Kids & Families. Related Exhibition: Water's Edge: The Art of Truman Lowe. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Saturday, November 14, 2026, 1:15 PM – 2:00 PM.

NY | Story Time

Ongoing Tours & Activities Families are invited to an interactive story time featuring a children’s book by a Native author, illustrator, or created in collaboration with an Indigenous community. They will have the opportunity to engage with objects from the museum's teaching collection, such as photographs, textiles, or natural materials, which can deepen their understanding of the community represented in the story, along with a craft or other activity. All are welcome. *Recommended for visitors ages 3–9 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. **Schedule subject to change. Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 1: imagiNATIONS Activity Center Classroom. Cost: Free. Categories: Kids & Families. Saturday, November 14, 2026, 2:15 PM – 2:45 PM.

DC | Cradleboards and Crawlers

Ongoing Tours & Activities Designed for early learners (ages 0-2), their caregivers, and families, this drop-in program offers young visitors the opportunity to enjoy a book by a Native author or illustrator read by a Museum Educator, engage in free play and sensory enrichment, and participate in other hands-on learning.  *Due to limited capacity in our spaces, tickets may be needed to enter the Activity Center and therefore the Story room (limited to 25 persons max). Please see staff at the entrance desk of the imagiNATIONS Activity Center on Level 3. **Recommended for visitors ages 0-2 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3, imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Kids & Families. Tuesday, November 17, 2026, 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Tuesday, November 17, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

NY | Hands On: Clay Pinch Pots

One-Time Events Get hands-on with clay and create a miniature pinch pot! This engaging activity introduces a time-honored art form practiced by Indigenous communities across the Western Hemisphere. Passed down through generations, pottery-making reflects creativity, skill, and deep cultural knowledge. All are welcome! *Children under 15 should be accompanied by an adult caregiver. Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 1: imagiNATIONS Activity Center classroom. Cost: FREE. Categories: Kids & Families. Tuesday, November 17, 2026, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM.

DC | Cradleboards and Crawlers

Ongoing Tours & Activities Designed for early learners (ages 0-2), their caregivers, and families, this drop-in program offers young visitors the opportunity to enjoy a book by a Native author or illustrator read by a Museum Educator, engage in free play and sensory enrichment, and participate in other hands-on learning.  *Due to limited capacity in our spaces, tickets may be needed to enter the Activity Center and therefore the Story room (limited to 25 persons max). Please see staff at the entrance desk of the imagiNATIONS Activity Center on Level 3. **Recommended for visitors ages 0-2 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3, imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Kids & Families. Wednesday, November 18, 2026, 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Wednesday, November 18, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

NY | Hands On: Clay Pinch Pots

One-Time Events Get hands-on with clay and create a miniature pinch pot! This engaging activity introduces a time-honored art form practiced by Indigenous communities across the Western Hemisphere. Passed down through generations, pottery-making reflects creativity, skill, and deep cultural knowledge. All are welcome! *Children under 15 should be accompanied by an adult caregiver. Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 1: imagiNATIONS Activity Center classroom. Cost: FREE. Categories: Kids & Families. Wednesday, November 18, 2026, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM.

DC | Closer Look: Water's Edge

One-Time Events Join Rebecca Trautmann, curator of Water’s Edge: The Art of Truman Lowe, for an in-gallery conversation with Karen Lemmey, the Lucy S. Rhame Curator of Sculpture at the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Together, they will offer visitors a closer look at select artworks in the exhibition.  Karen Lemmey is the Lucy S. Rhame Curator of Sculpture at the Smithsonian American Art Museum; she joined the museum’s staff in 2012. Lemmey is responsible for research, exhibitions and acquisitions related to the museum’s extensive sculpture collection, which is the largest collection of American sculpture in the world. Leading support provided by Bank of America. Major support provided by the Henry Luce Foundation. Generous support provided by the Terra Foundation for American Art and Ameriprise Financial. Additional support provided by John Lavine and Meryl Lipton Lavine, Greg and Cathy Tibbles, and Leslie A. Wheelock. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3, exhibition gallery. Cost: Free. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Related Exhibition: Water's Edge: The Art of Truman Lowe. Thursday, November 19, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM.

DC | Inspired to Create: Water's Edge

One-Time Events Embrace your creativity! Following the “Closer Look” program in Water's Edge take an art break to make a small artwork of your own inspired by the exhibition.   Join a museum arts educator for a hands-on art experience inspired by Truman Lowe’s use of willow branches and light. Participants will play with shadows using willow branches and light to trace the shadows they create. Drop by the tables near the exhibition exit to spend some time creating after your gallery visit. Leading support provided by Bank of America. Major support provided by the Henry Luce Foundation. Generous support provided by the Terra Foundation for American Art and Ameriprise Financial. Additional support provided by John Lavine and Meryl Lipton Lavine, Greg and Cathy Tibbles, and Leslie A. Wheelock. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3, North Gallery exit. Cost: FREE. Categories: Demonstrations. Workshops. Related Exhibition: Stretching the Canvas: Ten Decades of Native Painting. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Thursday, November 19, 2026, 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM.

NY | Hands On: Clay Pinch Pots

One-Time Events Get hands-on with clay and create a miniature pinch pot! This engaging activity introduces a time-honored art form practiced by Indigenous communities across the Western Hemisphere. Passed down through generations, pottery-making reflects creativity, skill, and deep cultural knowledge. All are welcome! *Children under 15 should be accompanied by an adult caregiver. Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 1: imagiNATIONS Activity Center classroom. Cost: FREE. Categories: Kids & Families. Thursday, November 19, 2026, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM.

DC | Story Time

Ongoing Tours & Activities Families are invited to an interactive story time featuring a children’s book by a Native author, illustrator, or created in collaboration with an Indigenous community. They will have the opportunity to engage with objects from the museum's Teaching Collection such as photographs, textiles, or natural materials that can deepen their understanding of the community represented in the story, along with a craft or other activity.  *Due to limited capacity in our spaces, tickets may be needed to enter the Activity Center and therefore the Story room (limited to 25 persons max). Please see staff at the entrance desk of the imagiNATIONS Activity Center on Level 3. **Recommended for visitors ages 3-9 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. ***Schedule subject to change without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: imagiNATIONS Activity Center, Level 3. Cost: Free. Categories: Kids & Families. Saturday, November 21, 2026, 11:15 AM – 11:45 AM.

DC | A Bison Celebration

One-Time Events Celebrate the past, present, and future of North America’s largest land mammal. Through captivating films and hands-on activities, learn about the bison’s vital role in restoring grassland ecosystems and its deep spiritual connection to Tribal nations. "A Bison Celebration" is part of the Smithsonian Institution’s commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.   SCHEDULE OF EVENTS,   Level 1, Rasmuson Theater | 1–2:45PM | Film Screenings,   Rebirth of the RangeThis documentary follows the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) as they reclaim the 19,000-acre National Bison Range in Montana. With exclusive, behind-the-scenes access, the film explores a rare federal land transfer and the tribes' assumption of stewardship over their sacred bison. More than just a management shift, it’s a powerful story of indigenous environmental leadership reclaiming the land and correcting the historical record. Directors: Kira Kay and Jason Maloney, USA, 2023, 45 min. Waabishki… Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 1, Rasmuson Theater and Potomac Atrium. Cost: FREE. Categories: Celebrations. Films. Kids & Families. Accessibility: Captioning. Wheelchair accessible. Saturday, November 21, 2026, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM.

DC | Look, Learn, Create: Water's Edge for Families

One-Time Events Join a museum educator for a family-friendly interactive tour of the Water's Edge: The Art of Truman Lowe exhibition! Visitors will engage with three of his artworks and can participate in guided discussions, and experience items from the museum's Teaching Collection. After finding inspiration from Truman Lowe’s artworks, families can continue into the imagiNATIONS Activity Center and create their own water-inspired artwork to take home. Recommended for children ages 4-10 and their families. All ages welcome. *Visitors 18 and under must be accompanied by an adult. First come, first served, capacity and supplies are limited. **This program can accommodate approximately 30 young visitors and their adult caregiver. Leading support provided by Bank of America. Major support provided by the Henry Luce Foundation. Generous support provided by the Terra Foundation for American Art and Ameriprise Financial. Additional support provided by John Lavine and Meryl Lipton Lavine, Greg and Cathy Tibbles, and Leslie A.… Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3: Exhibition Gallery, imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Kids & Families. Related Exhibition: Water's Edge: The Art of Truman Lowe. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Saturday, November 21, 2026, 1:15 PM – 2:00 PM.

NY | Hands On: Clay Pinch Pots

One-Time Events Get hands-on with clay and create a miniature pinch pot! This engaging activity introduces a time-honored art form practiced by Indigenous communities across the Western Hemisphere. Passed down through generations, pottery-making reflects creativity, skill, and deep cultural knowledge. All are welcome! *Children under 15 should be accompanied by an adult caregiver. Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 1: imagiNATIONS Activity Center classroom. Cost: FREE. Categories: Kids & Families. Saturday, November 21, 2026, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM.

NY | Hands On: Clay Pinch Pots

One-Time Events Get hands-on with clay and create a miniature pinch pot! This engaging activity introduces a time-honored art form practiced by Indigenous communities across the Western Hemisphere. Passed down through generations, pottery-making reflects creativity, skill, and deep cultural knowledge. All are welcome! *Children under 15 should be accompanied by an adult caregiver. Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 1: imagiNATIONS Activity Center classroom. Cost: FREE. Categories: Kids & Families. Sunday, November 22, 2026, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM.

DC | Cradleboards and Crawlers

Ongoing Tours & Activities Designed for early learners (ages 0-2), their caregivers, and families, this drop-in program offers young visitors the opportunity to enjoy a book by a Native author or illustrator read by a Museum Educator, engage in free play and sensory enrichment, and participate in other hands-on learning.  *Due to limited capacity in our spaces, tickets may be needed to enter the Activity Center and therefore the Story room (limited to 25 persons max). Please see staff at the entrance desk of the imagiNATIONS Activity Center on Level 3. **Recommended for visitors ages 0-2 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3, imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Kids & Families. Tuesday, November 24, 2026, 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Tuesday, November 24, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

NY | Hands On: Clay Pinch Pots

One-Time Events Get hands-on with clay and create a miniature pinch pot! This engaging activity introduces a time-honored art form practiced by Indigenous communities across the Western Hemisphere. Passed down through generations, pottery-making reflects creativity, skill, and deep cultural knowledge. All are welcome! *Children under 15 should be accompanied by an adult caregiver. Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 1: imagiNATIONS Activity Center classroom. Cost: FREE. Categories: Kids & Families. Tuesday, November 24, 2026, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM.

DC | Cradleboards and Crawlers

Ongoing Tours & Activities Designed for early learners (ages 0-2), their caregivers, and families, this drop-in program offers young visitors the opportunity to enjoy a book by a Native author or illustrator read by a Museum Educator, engage in free play and sensory enrichment, and participate in other hands-on learning.  *Due to limited capacity in our spaces, tickets may be needed to enter the Activity Center and therefore the Story room (limited to 25 persons max). Please see staff at the entrance desk of the imagiNATIONS Activity Center on Level 3. **Recommended for visitors ages 0-2 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3, imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Kids & Families. Wednesday, November 25, 2026, 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Wednesday, November 25, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

NY | Hands On: Clay Pinch Pots

One-Time Events Get hands-on with clay and create a miniature pinch pot! This engaging activity introduces a time-honored art form practiced by Indigenous communities across the Western Hemisphere. Passed down through generations, pottery-making reflects creativity, skill, and deep cultural knowledge. All are welcome! *Children under 15 should be accompanied by an adult caregiver. Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 1: imagiNATIONS Activity Center classroom. Cost: FREE. Categories: Kids & Families. Wednesday, November 25, 2026, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM.

DC | Native American Heritage Day

One-Time Events Mark Native American Heritage Day with the museum with dance performances, a closer look at the installation Making a Statement, and hands-on activities. SCHEDULE OF EVENTS, Level 1, Potomac Atrium, 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM, 3:30 PM | Jingle Dress Dancing with Denmi WhitemanLearn about the significance of the Jingle Dress and enjoy dance performances by Denmi Whiteman (Oglala Lakota and Southern Cheyenne), who hails from the Pine Ridge reservation located in South Dakota. Whiteman is a published model, content creator, artist, old-style Jingle Dress dancer, and Native American advocate. Whiteman brings her culture and community into every space she enters.     Level 3, imagiNATIONS Activity Center, 11 AM–1PM and 2–4 PM | Hands On: Button-makingCelebrate Native American Heritage Day by designing your own magnetic button. 11:15-11:45 AM | imagiNATIONS Activity CenterFamilies are invited to an interactive story time featuring a children’s book by a Native author, illustrator, or created in collaboration with an… Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 1, Potomac Atrium, Level 3, Level 4. Cost: FREE. Categories: Celebrations. Kids & Families. Performances. Related Exhibition: Making a Statement. Friday, November 27, 2026, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM.

NY | Native American Heritage Day

One-Time Events Members of Native Pride Productions, featured North American dancers in the 2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, join the museum’s celebration of Native American Heritage Day. Native Pride Dancers bring together dancers and styles from many Native communities, weaving them together and into a rich tapestry of motion. The dancers will demonstrate different styles of pow wow dance and share the unique stories and traditions surrounding the dances with visitors. Performances begin at 11 AM, 1 PM and 3 PM. Image: Photo of Larry Yazzie, courtesy of Native Pride Productions. Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 1, Diker Pavilion. Cost: FREE. Categories: Celebrations. Kids & Families. Performances. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Friday, November 27, 2026, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM.

CANCELLED - DC | Look, Learn, Create: Water's Edge for Families

One-Time Events Join a museum educator for a family-friendly interactive tour of the Water's Edge: The Art of Truman Lowe exhibition! Visitors will engage with three of his artworks and can participate in guided discussions, and experience items from the museum's Teaching Collection. After finding inspiration from Truman Lowe’s artworks, families can continue into the imagiNATIONS Activity Center and create their own water-inspired artwork to take home. Recommended for children ages 4-10 and their families. All ages welcome. *Visitors 18 and under must be accompanied by an adult. First come, first served, capacity and supplies are limited. **This program can accommodate approximately 30 young visitors and their adult caregiver. Leading support provided by Bank of America. Major support provided by the Henry Luce Foundation. Generous support provided by the Terra Foundation for American Art and Ameriprise Financial. Additional support provided by John Lavine and Meryl Lipton Lavine, Greg and Cathy Tibbles, and Leslie A.… Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3: Exhibition Gallery, imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Kids & Families. Related Exhibition: Water's Edge: The Art of Truman Lowe. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Saturday, November 28, 2026, 1:15 PM – 2:00 PM.

DC | Cradleboards and Crawlers

Ongoing Tours & Activities Designed for early learners (ages 0-2), their caregivers, and families, this drop-in program offers young visitors the opportunity to enjoy a book by a Native author or illustrator read by a Museum Educator, engage in free play and sensory enrichment, and participate in other hands-on learning.  *Due to limited capacity in our spaces, tickets may be needed to enter the Activity Center and therefore the Story room (limited to 25 persons max). Please see staff at the entrance desk of the imagiNATIONS Activity Center on Level 3. **Recommended for visitors ages 0-2 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3, imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Kids & Families. Tuesday, December 1, 2026, 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Tuesday, December 1, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

DC | Cradleboards and Crawlers

Ongoing Tours & Activities Designed for early learners (ages 0-2), their caregivers, and families, this drop-in program offers young visitors the opportunity to enjoy a book by a Native author or illustrator read by a Museum Educator, engage in free play and sensory enrichment, and participate in other hands-on learning.  *Due to limited capacity in our spaces, tickets may be needed to enter the Activity Center and therefore the Story room (limited to 25 persons max). Please see staff at the entrance desk of the imagiNATIONS Activity Center on Level 3. **Recommended for visitors ages 0-2 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3, imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Kids & Families. Wednesday, December 2, 2026, 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Wednesday, December 2, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

DC | Native Art Market

One-Time Events The museum’s annual Native Art Market features award-winning and innovative Indigenous artists from across the Western Hemisphere. This weekend event invites lovers of art and craftsmanship to meet Indigenous artists and learn about traditional arts and contemporary Indigenous creativity. Visitors will have the unique opportunity to purchase traditional and contemporary handcrafted artworks, including beadwork, jewelry, paintings, photography, pottery, and sculpture. Visit the museum’s exhibitions and enjoy lunch at the Mitsitam Cafe. *Additional activities to be announced. Image: A:shiwi (Zuni) necklace, ca. 1990. Silver, turquoise, jet/lignite, shells, 33.9 x 3.4 x .5 in. 26/5340. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 1, Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Kids & Families. Demonstrations. Shopping/Book Signing. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Saturday, December 5, 2026, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

DC | Story Time

Ongoing Tours & Activities Families are invited to an interactive story time featuring a children’s book by a Native author, illustrator, or created in collaboration with an Indigenous community. They will have the opportunity to engage with objects from the museum's Teaching Collection such as photographs, textiles, or natural materials that can deepen their understanding of the community represented in the story, along with a craft or other activity.  *Due to limited capacity in our spaces, tickets may be needed to enter the Activity Center and therefore the Story room (limited to 25 persons max). Please see staff at the entrance desk of the imagiNATIONS Activity Center on Level 3. **Recommended for visitors ages 3-9 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. ***Schedule subject to change without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: imagiNATIONS Activity Center, Level 3. Cost: Free. Categories: Kids & Families. Saturday, December 5, 2026, 11:15 AM – 11:45 AM.

DC | Look, Learn, Create: Water's Edge for Families

One-Time Events Join a museum educator for a family-friendly interactive tour of the Water's Edge: The Art of Truman Lowe exhibition! Visitors will engage with three of his artworks and can participate in guided discussions, and experience items from the museum's Teaching Collection. After finding inspiration from Truman Lowe’s artworks, families can continue into the imagiNATIONS Activity Center and create their own water-inspired artwork to take home. Recommended for children ages 4-10 and their families. All ages welcome. *Visitors 18 and under must be accompanied by an adult. First come, first served, capacity and supplies are limited. **This program can accommodate approximately 30 young visitors and their adult caregiver. Leading support provided by Bank of America. Major support provided by the Henry Luce Foundation. Generous support provided by the Terra Foundation for American Art and Ameriprise Financial. Additional support provided by John Lavine and Meryl Lipton Lavine, Greg and Cathy Tibbles, and Leslie A.… Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3: Exhibition Gallery, imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Kids & Families. Related Exhibition: Water's Edge: The Art of Truman Lowe. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Saturday, December 5, 2026, 1:15 PM – 2:00 PM.

DC | Native Art Market

One-Time Events The museum’s annual Native Art Market features award-winning and innovative Indigenous artists from across the Western Hemisphere. This weekend event invites lovers of art and craftsmanship to meet Indigenous artists and learn about traditional arts and contemporary Indigenous creativity. Visitors will have the unique opportunity to purchase traditional and contemporary handcrafted artworks, including beadwork, jewelry, paintings, photography, pottery, and sculpture. Visit the museum’s exhibitions and enjoy lunch at the Mitsitam Cafe. *Additional activities to be announced. Image: A:shiwi (Zuni) necklace, ca. 1990. Silver, turquoise, jet/lignite, shells, 33.9 x 3.4 x .5 in. 26/5340. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 1, Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Kids & Families. Demonstrations. Shopping/Book Signing. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Sunday, December 6, 2026, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

DC | Cradleboards and Crawlers

Ongoing Tours & Activities Designed for early learners (ages 0-2), their caregivers, and families, this drop-in program offers young visitors the opportunity to enjoy a book by a Native author or illustrator read by a Museum Educator, engage in free play and sensory enrichment, and participate in other hands-on learning.  *Due to limited capacity in our spaces, tickets may be needed to enter the Activity Center and therefore the Story room (limited to 25 persons max). Please see staff at the entrance desk of the imagiNATIONS Activity Center on Level 3. **Recommended for visitors ages 0-2 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3, imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Kids & Families. Tuesday, December 8, 2026, 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Tuesday, December 8, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

DC | Cradleboards and Crawlers

Ongoing Tours & Activities Designed for early learners (ages 0-2), their caregivers, and families, this drop-in program offers young visitors the opportunity to enjoy a book by a Native author or illustrator read by a Museum Educator, engage in free play and sensory enrichment, and participate in other hands-on learning.  *Due to limited capacity in our spaces, tickets may be needed to enter the Activity Center and therefore the Story room (limited to 25 persons max). Please see staff at the entrance desk of the imagiNATIONS Activity Center on Level 3. **Recommended for visitors ages 0-2 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3, imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Kids & Families. Wednesday, December 9, 2026, 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Wednesday, December 9, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

NY | Hands On: Miniature Drums with Lance Cardinal

One-Time Events Get inspired by our exhibition Mighty Miniatures and then make your own miniature drum with guidance from artist Lance Cardinal (Bigstone Cree Nation, Treat 8 Territory, Alberta, Canada), recognized for his creativity across the scale, from massive public art works to miniatures. Lance Cardinal is an award-winning multidisciplinary artist with experience in design, murals, acting, and miniatures. Cardinal was a finalist on the third season of the reality television show, Best In Miniature. His 85-foot tall mural The Land We Share is recognized as the largest solar panel art in the world in the Guinness Book of World Records (2025). He created the Turtle Island Team logo for the Edmonton Oilers professional hockey team and worked with IKEA to create the first Indigenous family furniture showroom at their Edmonton location. Cardinal won the 2025 Canadian Screen Award for "Best Children's or Youth non-fiction program or series" for his show Indigenous Art Adventures on APTN. Cardinal will lead visitors in… Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 2, Thunderbird Room. Cost: Free. Categories: Celebrations. Workshops. Demonstrations. Related Exhibition: Mighty Miniatures. Saturday, December 12, 2026, 11:00 AM – 11:35 AM.

DC | Story Time

Ongoing Tours & Activities Families are invited to an interactive story time featuring a children’s book by a Native author, illustrator, or created in collaboration with an Indigenous community. They will have the opportunity to engage with objects from the museum's Teaching Collection such as photographs, textiles, or natural materials that can deepen their understanding of the community represented in the story, along with a craft or other activity.  *Due to limited capacity in our spaces, tickets may be needed to enter the Activity Center and therefore the Story room (limited to 25 persons max). Please see staff at the entrance desk of the imagiNATIONS Activity Center on Level 3. **Recommended for visitors ages 3-9 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. ***Schedule subject to change without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: imagiNATIONS Activity Center, Level 3. Cost: Free. Categories: Kids & Families. Saturday, December 12, 2026, 11:15 AM – 11:45 AM.

NY | Story Time

Ongoing Tours & Activities Families are invited to an interactive story time featuring a children’s book by a Native author, illustrator, or created in collaboration with an Indigenous community. They will have the opportunity to engage with objects from the museum's teaching collection, such as photographs, textiles, or natural materials, which can deepen their understanding of the community represented in the story, along with a craft or other activity. All are welcome. *Recommended for visitors ages 3–9 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. **Schedule subject to change. Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 1: imagiNATIONS Activity Center Classroom. Cost: Free. Categories: Kids & Families. Saturday, December 12, 2026, 11:15 AM – 11:45 AM.

NY | Curator Tour: Mighty Miniatures

One-Time Events Join museum curator Anya Montiel (Mestiza/Tohono O'odham descent) for a tour of the exhibition Mighty Miniatures. Montiel will share how these tiny marvels reveal stories about childhood, creativity, and innovation, as well as the ways Indigenous communities have used miniatures to preserve traditional knowledge and support economic development. Ranging from North, Central, and South America and Hawai‘i, the exhibition features over 300 works from the museum’s collection of more than 1,300 miniatures. Dolls, pottery, baskets, and more—Mighty Miniatures celebrates these artistic marvels in miniature and the Indigenous artists who make them. Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 2, East Gallery. Cost: Free. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Kids & Families. Related Exhibition: Mighty Miniatures. Saturday, December 12, 2026, 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM.

NY | Hands On: Miniature Drums with Lance Cardinal

One-Time Events Get inspired by our exhibition Mighty Miniatures and then make your own miniature drum with guidance from artist Lance Cardinal (Bigstone Cree Nation, Treat 8 Territory, Alberta, Canada), recognized for his creativity across the scale, from massive public art works to miniatures. Lance Cardinal is an award-winning multidisciplinary artist with experience in design, murals, acting, and miniatures. Cardinal was a finalist on the third season of the reality television show, Best In Miniature. His 85-foot tall mural The Land We Share is recognized as the largest solar panel art in the world in the Guinness Book of World Records (2025). He created the Turtle Island Team logo for the Edmonton Oilers professional hockey team and worked with IKEA to create the first Indigenous family furniture showroom at their Edmonton location. Cardinal won the 2025 Canadian Screen Award for "Best Children's or Youth non-fiction program or series" for his show Indigenous Art Adventures on APTN. Cardinal will lead visitors in… Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 2, Thunderbird Room. Cost: Free. Categories: Celebrations. Workshops. Demonstrations. Related Exhibition: Mighty Miniatures. Saturday, December 12, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:35 PM.

DC | Look, Learn, Create: Water's Edge for Families

One-Time Events Join a museum educator for a family-friendly interactive tour of the Water's Edge: The Art of Truman Lowe exhibition! Visitors will engage with three of his artworks and can participate in guided discussions, and experience items from the museum's Teaching Collection. After finding inspiration from Truman Lowe’s artworks, families can continue into the imagiNATIONS Activity Center and create their own water-inspired artwork to take home. Recommended for children ages 4-10 and their families. All ages welcome. *Visitors 18 and under must be accompanied by an adult. First come, first served, capacity and supplies are limited. **This program can accommodate approximately 30 young visitors and their adult caregiver. Leading support provided by Bank of America. Major support provided by the Henry Luce Foundation. Generous support provided by the Terra Foundation for American Art and Ameriprise Financial. Additional support provided by John Lavine and Meryl Lipton Lavine, Greg and Cathy Tibbles, and Leslie A.… Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3: Exhibition Gallery, imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Kids & Families. Related Exhibition: Water's Edge: The Art of Truman Lowe. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Saturday, December 12, 2026, 1:15 PM – 2:00 PM.

NY | Hands On: Miniature Drums with Lance Cardinal

One-Time Events Get inspired by our exhibition Mighty Miniatures and then make your own miniature drum with guidance from artist Lance Cardinal (Bigstone Cree Nation, Treat 8 Territory, Alberta, Canada), recognized for his creativity across the scale, from massive public art works to miniatures. Lance Cardinal is an award-winning multidisciplinary artist with experience in design, murals, acting, and miniatures. Cardinal was a finalist on the third season of the reality television show, Best In Miniature. His 85-foot tall mural The Land We Share is recognized as the largest solar panel art in the world in the Guinness Book of World Records (2025). He created the Turtle Island Team logo for the Edmonton Oilers professional hockey team and worked with IKEA to create the first Indigenous family furniture showroom at their Edmonton location. Cardinal won the 2025 Canadian Screen Award for "Best Children's or Youth non-fiction program or series" for his show Indigenous Art Adventures on APTN. Cardinal will lead visitors in… Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 2, Thunderbird Room. Cost: Free. Categories: Celebrations. Workshops. Demonstrations. Related Exhibition: Mighty Miniatures. Saturday, December 12, 2026, 2:00 PM – 2:35 PM.

NY | Story Time

Ongoing Tours & Activities Families are invited to an interactive story time featuring a children’s book by a Native author, illustrator, or created in collaboration with an Indigenous community. They will have the opportunity to engage with objects from the museum's teaching collection, such as photographs, textiles, or natural materials, which can deepen their understanding of the community represented in the story, along with a craft or other activity. All are welcome. *Recommended for visitors ages 3–9 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. **Schedule subject to change. Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 1: imagiNATIONS Activity Center Classroom. Cost: Free. Categories: Kids & Families. Saturday, December 12, 2026, 2:15 PM – 2:45 PM.

NY | Curator Tour: Mighty Miniatures

One-Time Events Join museum curator Anya Montiel (Mestiza/Tohono O'odham descent) for a tour of the exhibition Mighty Miniatures. Montiel will share how these tiny marvels reveal stories about childhood, creativity, and innovation, as well as the ways Indigenous communities have used miniatures to preserve traditional knowledge and support economic development. Ranging from North, Central, and South America and Hawai‘i, the exhibition features over 300 works from the museum’s collection of more than 1,300 miniatures. Dolls, pottery, baskets, and more—Mighty Miniatures celebrates these artistic marvels in miniature and the Indigenous artists who make them. Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 2, East Gallery. Cost: Free. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Kids & Families. Related Exhibition: Mighty Miniatures. Saturday, December 12, 2026, 2:30 PM – 3:00 PM.

NY | Hands On: Miniature Drums with Lance Cardinal

One-Time Events Get inspired by our exhibition Mighty Miniatures and then make your own miniature drum with guidance from artist Lance Cardinal (Bigstone Cree Nation, Treat 8 Territory, Alberta, Canada), recognized for his creativity across the scale, from massive public art works to miniatures. Lance Cardinal is an award-winning multidisciplinary artist with experience in design, murals, acting, and miniatures. Cardinal was a finalist on the third season of the reality television show, Best In Miniature. His 85-foot tall mural The Land We Share is recognized as the largest solar panel art in the world in the Guinness Book of World Records (2025). He created the Turtle Island Team logo for the Edmonton Oilers professional hockey team and worked with IKEA to create the first Indigenous family furniture showroom at their Edmonton location. Cardinal won the 2025 Canadian Screen Award for "Best Children's or Youth non-fiction program or series" for his show Indigenous Art Adventures on APTN. Cardinal will lead visitors in… Venue: American Indian Museum NY. Location Icon: New York, NY. Event Location: Level 2, Thunderbird Room. Cost: Free. Categories: Celebrations. Workshops. Demonstrations. Related Exhibition: Mighty Miniatures. Saturday, December 12, 2026, 3:00 PM – 3:35 PM.

DC | Cradleboards and Crawlers

Ongoing Tours & Activities Designed for early learners (ages 0-2), their caregivers, and families, this drop-in program offers young visitors the opportunity to enjoy a book by a Native author or illustrator read by a Museum Educator, engage in free play and sensory enrichment, and participate in other hands-on learning.  *Due to limited capacity in our spaces, tickets may be needed to enter the Activity Center and therefore the Story room (limited to 25 persons max). Please see staff at the entrance desk of the imagiNATIONS Activity Center on Level 3. **Recommended for visitors ages 0-2 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3, imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Kids & Families. Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

DC | Cradleboards and Crawlers

Ongoing Tours & Activities Designed for early learners (ages 0-2), their caregivers, and families, this drop-in program offers young visitors the opportunity to enjoy a book by a Native author or illustrator read by a Museum Educator, engage in free play and sensory enrichment, and participate in other hands-on learning.  *Due to limited capacity in our spaces, tickets may be needed to enter the Activity Center and therefore the Story room (limited to 25 persons max). Please see staff at the entrance desk of the imagiNATIONS Activity Center on Level 3. **Recommended for visitors ages 0-2 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3, imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Kids & Families. Wednesday, December 16, 2026, 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Wednesday, December 16, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

DC | Story Time

Ongoing Tours & Activities Families are invited to an interactive story time featuring a children’s book by a Native author, illustrator, or created in collaboration with an Indigenous community. They will have the opportunity to engage with objects from the museum's Teaching Collection such as photographs, textiles, or natural materials that can deepen their understanding of the community represented in the story, along with a craft or other activity.  *Due to limited capacity in our spaces, tickets may be needed to enter the Activity Center and therefore the Story room (limited to 25 persons max). Please see staff at the entrance desk of the imagiNATIONS Activity Center on Level 3. **Recommended for visitors ages 3-9 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. ***Schedule subject to change without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: imagiNATIONS Activity Center, Level 3. Cost: Free. Categories: Kids & Families. Saturday, December 19, 2026, 11:15 AM – 11:45 AM.

DC | Look, Learn, Create: Water's Edge for Families

One-Time Events Join a museum educator for a family-friendly interactive tour of the Water's Edge: The Art of Truman Lowe exhibition! Visitors will engage with three of his artworks and can participate in guided discussions, and experience items from the museum's Teaching Collection. After finding inspiration from Truman Lowe’s artworks, families can continue into the imagiNATIONS Activity Center and create their own water-inspired artwork to take home. Recommended for children ages 4-10 and their families. All ages welcome. *Visitors 18 and under must be accompanied by an adult. First come, first served, capacity and supplies are limited. **This program can accommodate approximately 30 young visitors and their adult caregiver. Leading support provided by Bank of America. Major support provided by the Henry Luce Foundation. Generous support provided by the Terra Foundation for American Art and Ameriprise Financial. Additional support provided by John Lavine and Meryl Lipton Lavine, Greg and Cathy Tibbles, and Leslie A.… Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3: Exhibition Gallery, imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Kids & Families. Related Exhibition: Water's Edge: The Art of Truman Lowe. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Saturday, December 19, 2026, 1:15 PM – 2:00 PM.

DC | Cradleboards and Crawlers

Ongoing Tours & Activities Designed for early learners (ages 0-2), their caregivers, and families, this drop-in program offers young visitors the opportunity to enjoy a book by a Native author or illustrator read by a Museum Educator, engage in free play and sensory enrichment, and participate in other hands-on learning.  *Due to limited capacity in our spaces, tickets may be needed to enter the Activity Center and therefore the Story room (limited to 25 persons max). Please see staff at the entrance desk of the imagiNATIONS Activity Center on Level 3. **Recommended for visitors ages 0-2 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3, imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Kids & Families. Tuesday, December 22, 2026, 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Tuesday, December 22, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

DC | Cradleboards and Crawlers

Ongoing Tours & Activities Designed for early learners (ages 0-2), their caregivers, and families, this drop-in program offers young visitors the opportunity to enjoy a book by a Native author or illustrator read by a Museum Educator, engage in free play and sensory enrichment, and participate in other hands-on learning.  *Due to limited capacity in our spaces, tickets may be needed to enter the Activity Center and therefore the Story room (limited to 25 persons max). Please see staff at the entrance desk of the imagiNATIONS Activity Center on Level 3. **Recommended for visitors ages 0-2 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3, imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Kids & Families. Wednesday, December 23, 2026, 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Wednesday, December 23, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

DC | Cradleboards and Crawlers

Ongoing Tours & Activities Designed for early learners (ages 0-2), their caregivers, and families, this drop-in program offers young visitors the opportunity to enjoy a book by a Native author or illustrator read by a Museum Educator, engage in free play and sensory enrichment, and participate in other hands-on learning.  *Due to limited capacity in our spaces, tickets may be needed to enter the Activity Center and therefore the Story room (limited to 25 persons max). Please see staff at the entrance desk of the imagiNATIONS Activity Center on Level 3. **Recommended for visitors ages 0-2 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3, imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Kids & Families. Tuesday, December 29, 2026, 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Tuesday, December 29, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

DC | Cradleboards and Crawlers

Ongoing Tours & Activities Designed for early learners (ages 0-2), their caregivers, and families, this drop-in program offers young visitors the opportunity to enjoy a book by a Native author or illustrator read by a Museum Educator, engage in free play and sensory enrichment, and participate in other hands-on learning.  *Due to limited capacity in our spaces, tickets may be needed to enter the Activity Center and therefore the Story room (limited to 25 persons max). Please see staff at the entrance desk of the imagiNATIONS Activity Center on Level 3. **Recommended for visitors ages 0-2 years old accompanied by an adult caregiver. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Level 3, imagiNATIONS Activity Center. Cost: FREE. Categories: Kids & Families. Wednesday, December 30, 2026, 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM.

DC | Welcome to a Native Place

Ongoing Tours & Activities Enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Isanti Dakota/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the Potomac Atrium. At the end of the 30-minute presentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture, past and present. Presentations may be canceled without prior notice. Venue: American Indian Museum DC. Location Icon: Washington, DC. Event Location: Potomac Atrium. Cost: Free. Categories: Performances. Wednesday, December 30, 2026, 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM.