For the 14th consecutive year, the Tesoro Cultural Center will host the Annual Indian Market & Powwow at The Fort, a living history museum in Morrison, Colo. Situated just outside Denver, the event celebrates Indigenous Southwestern cuisine, traditional dance and drumming, and offers a wide range of educational activities for visitors of all ages. This year’s featured artists include Nelson Garcia, Carol Snow, Lynn Burnette, Maria Cuch, Mark Silversmith, Andy Marion, Eddie Morrison, and Joe and LeJuene Chavez. Presented by the Council for Indigenous Arts and Culture, all work displayed by the artists is created using natural, authentic materials.
Attendees can browse a diverse selection of unique handmade crafts and participate in interactive demonstrations such as a beading exhibit and a children’s jewelry-making workshop. The powwow’s entertainment lineup includes a dance competition with categories like Traditional, Fancy, Jingle, Shawl, and Grass dancing, showcasing a broad spectrum of styles and generations. The program also includes a formal recognition of outstanding American Indian veterans, honoring their service and contribution to the community.
The powwow runs daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on May 17 and 18. Visitors will find plenty of opportunities to taste regional flavors, learn about Indigenous artistic practices, and engage with community members through hands-on activities and live performances. The family-friendly atmosphere, authentic cultural presentations, and emphasis on education make the event a meaningful experience for locals and tourists alike.
Beyond the performances and workshops, the market offers collectors and casual shoppers alike the chance to acquire high-quality, handcrafted pieces made by respected Indigenous artists. Emphasis on traditional materials and techniques ensures each piece reflects cultural heritage and artistic integrity. Demonstrations and artist talks further illuminate the stories and methods behind the work, deepening appreciation for the craft.
Practical information for visitors: the event is held at The Fort in Morrison, Colo., a short drive from Denver. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. Expect a mix of food vendors, craft booths, live drumming and dance exhibitions, and scheduled workshops. The powwow is suitable for families and offers activities geared toward children as well as adult-focused presentations and shopping.
This long-running event provides a valuable platform for Indigenous artists and cultural educators to share traditions, create cross-cultural connections, and preserve artistic practices. Whether you come to sample Southwestern cuisine, watch dance competitions, learn a craft, or purchase authentic art, the Tesoro Cultural Center’s Indian Market & Powwow delivers an immersive cultural experience that highlights the resilience and creativity of Native communities.
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