Celebrate Indigenous Minnesota cultures at Owámni Falling Water Festival Saturday, October 8

Free family event planned 1-5 pm at Water Works at Mill Ruins Park next to Stone Arch Bridge

The Owámni Falling Water Festival celebrates Indigenous Minnesota cultures at Water Works at Mill Ruins Park, next to the Stone Arch Bridge in downtown Minneapolis (333 First Street South). Scheduled for Saturday, October 8 from 1-5 pm, this free, family-friendly event features music, art, food, exhibitors and more!

“Owámni” means “whirling or falling water” in Dakota. The area around Mississippi River’s St. Anthony Falls is a sacred site for Dakota and Anishinaabe people, and the festival name is based on the Dakota name for the area, “Owámniiyomni.”

Along with the highlights below, the festival features opportunities to learn about Indigenous and riverfront history from organizations such as the Minnesota Historical Society, Native American Community Development Institute, Friends of the Falls, and Tiwahe Foundation, just to name a few.

Art

Native contemporary, traditional, and fine arts showcase talented Indigenous visual artists like Graci Horne and James Autio. Jewelry and artwork available for purchase, along with hands-on artmaking opportunities like screen/shirt printing.

Music and Entertainment

Local and national Indigenous acts include Corey Medina and Brothers, Pretendians, and Spirit Boy Singers, as well as renowned hoop dancers Lumhe and Samsoche Sampson. Deanna StandingCloud emcees the lineup.

Food

An outstanding variety of Indigenous foods available for purchase from food trucks and vendors, including Tatanka Truck, Pow Wow Grounds, and Wanna Wota.

Event Partners

The Owámni Falling Water Festival is made possible by a grant from the St. Anthony Falls Heritage Board. Event partners include the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, Minnesota Historical Society and Native American Community Development Institute.