31st Annual Trade Feast

A celebration of Native American dance, art, music, food, and crafts.

Sept. 13 (10-5) & Sept. 14 (10-4)
Museum of American Indian
Miwok Park
2200 S. Novato Bl. Novato, CA

(PRWEB) August, 2003 -- For 31 years California Indian dance, traditional Miwok fry bread, and Native American music have been a festive part of the annual TRADE FEAST. Sponsored each year by the Marin Museum of the American Indian, this year's celebration will be held Sept. 13 & 14 at Miwok Park in Novato, located just north of San Francisco, CA.

TRADE FEAST has grown out of a long tradition among California indigenous people who gathered annually to exchange foods, tools, supplies and to share songs, stories, dances, and friendships.

Historically, gatherings such as this were important social and political events at which various tribal groups could express their points of view and observe potential mates for their children. This modern-day version will bring together traditional and contemporary artists, dancers, weavers, and more from a variety of indigenous peoples, including Yup'ik Eskimo, Lakota, Navajo (Dine), Creek, Pomo, Yurok, Hupa, and Coast Miwok.

Master of Ceremonies actor/artist/musician Micki Free (Cherokee/Comanche) was voted Best Male Native American Artist of the Year (02). His CDs and musical talents have earned numerous awards include Best Original Film Score" for Beverly Hills Cop and Footloose" from the movie by the same name, and he has appeared in such films as Lone Ranger" and Tales of a Gun."

A painter, jeweler, and clothes designer as well, this artist has also recently been featured in Native Peoples Magazine ('02) and Cowboys and Indians (02). And as a former Shalimar band member he has toured with Diana Ross and Janet Jackson.

Special guests include the Dry Creek Pomo Traditional Dancers, Wendy Bearschild and the Spirit Road Band, the Four Winds Plains Hoop Dancers, and Teocalli Amauta (Andes music).

Featured activities include native demonstrations of everyday items, such as hides and herbs, and children's activities range from bead making to traditional games, such as billet. Traditional foods, such as Indian Fry Bread will be available for purchase.

The Marin Museum of the American Indian is the only museum in the San Francisco Bay Area devoted exclusively to Native American from all regions. Its goal is to promote an awareness and understanding of Native American history and culture through a range of programs, including Camp Coyote for children, "Tales Around the Campfire", educational symposiums, and the current Kachina (Hopi Dolls) exhibit.

Cost is $5. For more information, call 415-897-4064 or visit www.marinindian.com

Media Contact: Karen Pierce Gonzalez 707-792-4376