The Arizona Indian Festival, a free two-day event in Scottsdale, provides an opportunity to experience traditional Native arts, crafts, food, and performances while promoting tribal tourism. According to Steve Geiogamah, Scottsdale’s tourism development manager, the festival is unique as it brings together all 22 of Arizona’s tribes.
Hosted by the Arizona American Indian Tourism Association in partnership with Arizona's Native American tribes, the festival is part of Scottsdale's annual Western Week celebration. It will take place on February 1-2 at the Scottsdale Civic Center.
The event will showcase accomplished Native artists, tribal royalty, and performances by groups such as the Apache Crown Dancers and Hopi Traditional Dancers. Last year, over 16,000 people attended the festival.
Arizona has one of the largest Native American populations in the United States. Tourism plays a significant role in many Native communities' economies. The festival offers an opportunity for Native travel and tourism organizations to present new ventures and destinations.
This year's festival introduces a new element: the Indigenous Food Symposium on Saturday. The symposium will feature speakers and a panel discussion focusing on Native food sovereignty and traditional foodways.
The first Arizona Indian Festival was held in 1996 when Arizona was preparing to host its first Super Bowl. The event became an annual occurrence in 2015 as part of preparations for another Super Bowl and found its permanent location in Scottsdale.
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