The annual Him-Dak Museum Celebration commemorates the Him-Dak Eco Museum and its role in preserving the history of the Ak-Chin Indian Community. The museum displays artifacts and other historic objects. This year’s Him-Dak Museum Celebration takes place on Saturday, April 7 from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

The day offers fun for the whole family, beginning with the 5K Color Fun Run/Walk. The Color Fun Run/Walk takes off right at 8:00 a.m. from the Youth Council Building (the old fire station) and ends at the museum. Register on-site starting at 7:30 a.m. on April 7.

After the run/walk, come back to the museum, located at 47685 N. Eco Museum Road, Maricopa, for a full day of activity. Performers and artists will demonstrate cultural dances and artwork from the Ak-Chin Indian Community and other Native American Communities.

Past yearly celebrations have included performances from the Morning Star Leadership Youth Council, Native American hoop dancer Kevin Duncan, Yaqui deer dancer Norberto Coronado, the San Juan Kwaliya Dance Group, and bird dancing and singing by the river with the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. Artist demonstrations often include work by local artists including basket weaver Sally Antone and oil painters Joseph Smith and Dwayne Antone.

There will also be art and food vendors and information booths, along with face painting and bounce houses for the kids to enjoy. Bring the whole family!

This year’s Him-Dak Museum Celebration theme, “Honoring our first language,” honors the goal of the Ak-Chin Indian Community to help keep the original language alive among the generations.

The Him-Dak Celebration fills the day with fun and informative activities, while also observing the vital role of the museum in preserving the history of the Ak-Chin Indian Community.

Come for all or part of the day, and you’re sure to enjoy your time! For more information, contact the Museum main office, 520-568-1350.