Celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day: Denver Summit FC Community Guide

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Denver Summit FC is proud to celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day!

Indigenous communities have long shaped the culture, land, and history of Colorado. At Summit FC, we believe in the power of sport to bring people together. On this day and throughout the year, we celebrate Indigenous culture, honor ancestral homelands, and recognize the enduring contributions of Native communities across our region.

Celebrate with us by supporting local Indigenous-owned businesses, cultural events, and organizations that make our community shine!

CELEBRATE: Events

  • October 12, 2026: Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration at Denver Indian Center: Witness the parade, visit the vendors in celebration of Indigenous Peoples Day!
  • October 13, 2026: University of Denver, Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration: Presented by the Lamont School of Music & Theatre, this academic and cultural celebration highlights Indigenous artistry and performances.
  • October 17, 2026, 4:45 PM: Indigenous Peoples Heritage Night with Denver Summit FC: Join Denver Summit FC for a pre-match Fan Zone activation starting at 4:45 PM featuring tabling by the Denver Indian Center, followed by traditional drum circle and dance performances, an on-field land acknowledgement, and halftime cultural presentations.
  • October 24, 2026: The Denver American Indian Festival: The Denver American Indian Festival is a 100% volunteer-run 501(c)3.  Since 2014 the Denver American Indian Festival has brought a celebration of American Indian culture, arts, and history to all Denver Metro communities. It has welcomed over 20,000 residents and over 81 tribal representatives.
  • Bi-weekly Youth Sessions: Youth Advocacy & Leadership Program: Spirit of the Sun empowers Indigenous and BIPOC youth (ages 13–18) through storytelling, art, public speaking, and cultural education focused on environmental decision-making and policy advocacy.
  • Ongoing Art Exhibits: Denver Art Museum: The Denver Art Museum dedicates more than 20,000 square feet of gallery space in the newly reimagined Martin Building to exhibiting its unparalleled Indigenous Arts of North America collection.

FUTURE EVENTS:

  • Denver March Powwow: Since 1984, the heritage of American Indians has been celebrated in Denver every March at the Denver March Powwow, one of the largest events of its kind in the country. A welcoming glimpse into Native American culture, more than 1,600 dancers from close to 100 tribes from 38 states and three Canadian provinces come to the three-day event, filling the Denver Coliseum with singing, dancing, storytelling, food and art.

SUPPORT: Local Indigenous-owned Businesses

  • Ch’il Indigenous Foods: Native-owned culinary operation by Chef Narissa providing catering and an online store featuring Indigenous food mixes and ingredients.
  • Kachina Cantina: Inspired by indigenous ingredients and the spirit of the land, our menu is rooted in intentional cooking and a respect for tradition.
  • Tocabe: Native American eatery serving traditional and modern Native-inspired cuisine centered on American Indian ingredients.

GIVE: Organizations & Resources

  • Denver Indian Center, Inc.: An urban American Indian development center empowering Native people through culturally responsive social, educational, and community programs.
  • Denver Indian Health and Family Services: Denver’s only Urban Indian Health Program providing culturally appropriate care for American Indian and Alaska Native adults, children, and families.
  • Four Winds American Indian Council: Four Winds is a source of community for Denver Native Americans, providing resources to meet cultural and physical needs while activating our community members to fight for political change.
  • Native American Rights Fund: Non-profit law firm providing legal assistance and representation to Indian tribes, organizations, and individuals nationwide.
  • Spirit of the Sun: Indigenous-led nonprofit working to empower Native youth, elders, and communities through food sovereignty, rematriation, leadership development, and cultural education.