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American Indian Month honors contributions of Native Americans across the state. From powwows to educational events, there are many opportunities to celebrate American Indian Month in May. 

In the Twin Cities, a parade and float contest will kick off festivities in south Minneapolis. A powwow and open house at the Minneapolis American Indian Center will follow in the evening. 

Natalie Rademacher is the Minneapolis American Indian Center’s communications coordinator. She says the month offers opportunities for the Native American community to come together and celebrate their heritage.  

“It's just kind of a good kick off to summer,” Rademacher said.

The center has partnered with Metro Transit to offer free rides to and from the powwow between the hours of 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. 

“We serve people at very different stages of life. We're going through different things, and we're a space for everybody,” Rademacher said. The center wanted to ease financial and transportation barriers for community members who may want to attend but may not necessarily have the means to do so.

“We really want to do what we can to reduce those barriers so that people can be here, that they can be in community — they can be part of their culture,” she said. 

Other events and activities happening throughout the state include a bird walk, a film festival and a music performance. 

Minneapolis American Indian Center Open House and Powwow

Healing as a Community – Indian Health Board

Stella Standingbear: Off The Rez Tour with Stuart James

Mni Memory: a talk with the He Mni Can Wakpa (Jordan River/Creek)

Leech Lake Memorial Day Traditional Powwow

Chandra Colvin covers Native American communities in Minnesota for MPR News via 

, a national service program that places journalists into local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues and communities. 

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Native American communities and allies observe American Indian Month during May, honoring contributions of Native Americans across the state. Many opportunities to celebrate are scheduled throughout the month. 

American Indian Month 2026: Opportunities to celebrate across Minnesota

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