More than 100 Native American artists from across the United States and Canada will gather in Indianapolis later this month for the 34th annual Indian Market & Festival at the Eiteljorg Museum, one of the nation’s premier celebrations of Indigenous art, culture, and community.
Scheduled for June 27-28, the event will feature American Indian, Alaska Native, and First Nations artists working in a wide range of mediums, including jewelry, pottery, basketry, beadwork, carving, and contemporary fine art. Visitors will have the opportunity to purchase artwork directly from artists, many of whom are returning award winners, alongside first-time participants making their debut at the festival.
This year’s festival will introduce a groundbreaking cultural performance to Indianapolis audiences. Turtle Island: From the Creation Story of the Haudenosaunee combines dance, aerial puppetry, music, and community engagement in a visual retelling of the Haudenosaunee creation story. The outdoor production features a massive multicolored turtle balloon suspended above the stage while dancers from the Skywoman Dance Theater bring the story to life through movement and performance.
Festival attendees will also welcome back Indigenous Enterprise for its second appearance at the event. Known internationally for blending traditional powwow dance styles with contemporary influences such as hip-hop, the troupe’s performances showcase the vitality and evolution of Indigenous cultures.
“Every year the Eiteljorg Indian Market & Festival invites people to experience the vibrancy and resilience of Native cultures as living, evolving traditions — not something stuck in the past,” said Conner Richberg of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte, the museum’s festivals manager. “When visitors come, they’re directly supporting Native artists, hearing stories from Native voices, and engaging with traditions that have endured despite generations of challenges.”
In addition to artist booths and performances, visitors can participate in hands-on activities, watch art-making demonstrations, meet artists scheduled for future museum residencies, and explore museum exhibitions, including Cowboy Couture: The Fashion of Jerry Lee Atwood.
A juried art competition will recognize outstanding works entered by participating artists, with winners receiving ribbons and cash prizes during the festival’s Market Morning Breakfast before the event opens on June 27.
Richberg emphasized that the festival offers an opportunity for authentic cultural engagement.
“At its core, this weekend isn’t about appropriation — it’s about appreciation, learning, and connection,” he said. “It’s a celebration of Native resilience, creativity, and the cultures that continue to shape our communities today.”
Admission discounts are available through advance ticket purchases, while museum members and Native visitors presenting tribal identification receive free admission. Native-owned food and beverage vendors will also be featured throughout the weekend.
The festival’s commemorative T-shirt this year features Turtle Drum by David Martin.
For additional information, participating artists, and ticket purchases, visit Eiteljorg Indian Market & Festival.
