Abalone jewelry made by Santa Barbara-based Qashi Wear will be on display and for sale during the 16th Annual Chumash Cultural Day on Saturday at the Santa Ynez Indian Reservation.
The 16th Annual Chumash Cultural Day returned to the Santa Ynez Indian Reservation on Saturday for the first time since 2019. The festival featured California-style Native American songs, dances, food and games.
“Feeling soothing. I’m really excited to meet old friends, celebrate California’s Native American culture, and bring in a dance group. Also, anyone who has passed away from Covid or haven’t seen them in person in three years.” It is also a time to remember those who have died because of this.It is a time of healing,” Nakia Zavala, cultural director of the Chumash Tribe, told News Press.
The event was open to all ages in the community. Activities included arts and crafts vendors, food booths, and basket-making demonstrations. The event began at 1:00 pm with an opening prayer followed by a tribute to the elders. California-style Native American song and dance from 2pm to 5pm, followed by a dinner break from 6pm to 9pm, followed by a traditional hand game tournament starting at 5pm, with teams competing for cash prizes. competed for The winner was awarded $1,000, second place $750, and third place $500.
“The atmosphere is fun and celebratory, with lots of people seeing each other. Without the pandemic, it would have been like a reunion. I feel like it,” said Zavala.
Chumash Culture Day is sponsored by the Tribal Elders Council and the Santa Ynez Band of the Chumash Indian Cultural Division. The Tribal Elders Council is a branch of tribal government and is responsible for safeguarding cultural resources and preserving the heritage, history and traditions of the tribe.
“The purpose of this event is to honor and celebrate the diverse California Native American cultures. Our ancestors held gatherings thousands of years ago and we are following in their footsteps. , bringing people to dance, sing and celebrate the culture.
The event featured food trucks serving Indian fry pans and 23 Native American vendors highlighting California Native American style jewelry and art.
“We try to involve as many tribes as possible. More than seven different tribes are represented, dancing, singing and sharing their culture,” said Zavalla.
The Santa Ynez Indian Reservation is located in Santa Barbara County and was established and officially recognized by the federal government on December 27, 1901. Tribes are self-governing sovereign nations, subject to the laws set forth in their tribal constitutions.
Email: kzehnder@newspress.com
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