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Media inquiries: Please contact Dave Neudeck, dave.neudeck@dcr.virginia.gov, 804-786-5053.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: October 18, 2022
Contact: Kim Wells, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 804-217-1077, kim.wells@dcr.virginia.gov

Indigenous Peoples Celebration to be held at Machicomoco State Park
Educational displays and demonstrations provided by local tribes

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Interpretive area at Machicomoco State Park)

GLOUCESTER, VA – Machicomoco State Park is hosting an Indigenous Peoples Celebration from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Interpretative Area on November 5, 2022. Learn about local tribes and participate in hands-on demonstrations that help educate the public about earlier times.

“This is a great opportunity for our park visitors to immerse themselves in the culture and history of the Indigenous Peoples of Virginia,” said Machicomoco Chief Ranger Josh Mazzatenta. “The park is rich in culture and visitors can take part in hands-on demonstrations while they learn about traditional plant uses and the wildlife and natural resource management used by the Virginia Indians. Our goal is that visitors will continue to explore and learn about the Indigenous Peoples of Virginia and their story of persistence.”

The celebration will include dance performances at 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. by the Rappahannock Dance Group & Maskapow Drum Group. The performances will be held at the Demonstration Circle of the Interpretive Area.

Educational displays will be hosted by the Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia, the Mattaponi Indian Tribe & Reservation and the Kiskiack Chickahominy Tribe. There will be 13 additional education vendors spread out through the interpretive trails for a more interactive experience. There will be demonstrations of flint knapping, cordage twisting, dugout canoe burning and fishnet tying that provide a fun opportunity to learn new skills.

“This year we have 16 exhibitors, which is more than last year, and so we appreciate the participation from the community as they see the importance of bringing this event to the public,” said Mazzatenta. “We are excited to share this event with the public and help tell the stories of the Indigenous Peoples in Virginia.”

The event is free, but there is a $5 parking fee. For more information about the event or the park, call Machicomoco State Park at (804) 642-2419.
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