Each year, Masik Tas, or “birthday” celebrations commemorate the formal recognition of the Ak-Chin Indian Community. Events are open to everyone—come to check out the 11th annual Masik Tas!

The 2018 Masik Tas Celebration Light Parade lights up the night sky on Saturday, December 8. This festive parade heads down Farrell Road in Maricopa starting at 7 p.m. Entries from community members and families are judged in different categories, including Biggest and Brightest and Best Lit Family/Community Member Group. It’s sure to raise your holiday spirits!

Lots of entertainment is also on tap during Masik Tas. The Gin Blossoms, with guests Vertical Horizon, perform in a free concert on Friday, December 14. It happens at the Ak-Chin Circle Field, just north of the UltraStar Multi-tainment Center at Ak-Chin Circle. Get there early for good seats! Doors open at 6 p.m. Bring your blankets or low-back lawn chairs to enjoy their familiar tunes.

Bring the whole family for the free carnival from December 14 to 16. Enjoy carnival rides, food, arts & crafts vendors, games, and a petting zoo. Carnival hours are 4 to 10:30 p.m. on Friday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, and 12 to 7 p.m. on Sunday at Ak-Chin Circle near the UltraStar Multi-tainment Center.

Rodeo fans will be thrilled to compete in events December 15-16. Highlights include the junior rodeo and riding events on Saturday and roping events on Sunday.

While you’re enjoying all the fun, be sure to check out traditional performers and cultural demonstrations on Saturday and Sunday, December 15-16, from noon to 5 p.m. On Saturday evening, a Vaila dance with a chicken scratch dance happens from 6-10 p.m., and Two Rivers performs inside the Luxe Lounge starting at 10 p.m.

Other Masik Tas observances happen before then as well. These include the Miss/Jr. Ak-Chin Pageant followed by a dance on December 1. The annual basketball tournament runs Friday-Sunday, November 30-December 2. Also, tribal elders compete in the yearly chair volleyball tournament on Friday, December 7, and Toka/Songivu’l, or traditional games, are hosted on Sunday, December 9. There’s something for the golf lovers too - they can tee off at a tournament on Monday, December 10, starting at 10 a.m. at the Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club.

Learn more about the Ak-Chin Indian Community at these festive celebrations!