Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

An open invitation was extended to the Southeastern Mvskoke Nation Creek Friend’s Festival on Saturday at the tribal grounds on County Road 2254 Troy.

Being the first “Friend’s Festival,” Tribal Chief Michelle Gilmore didn’t  know what the response would be from the surrounding areas.

However, the ticketed attendance at the gate was more than 750  and children were admitted free.

“We are very appreciative of the interest in and the support of the Southeastern Mvskoke Nation Creek Friend’s Festival by those in the local areas,” Gilmore said. “It was an opportunity for others to know who we are and what we do.”

The Southeastern Mvskoke Nation is one of the eight-state recognized Tribes in Alabama

The ancestors of the Nation have lived in the Deep South since time immemorial and its traditional lands spanned most of Alabama, Georgia and North Florida.

Gilmore said the Friend’s Festival was an opportunity to honor the Nation’s heritage and celebrate with a day of fun with friends.

The Creek Friend’s Festival opened with the grand entry that included songs, dance and the posting of the five flags that are honored by the Southeastern Mvskoke Nation Creeks.

The festival featured native dancers, ax throwing, long bows, storytelling, arrowhead digging, the playing of guitars,  flute and drums and native artistry. Flat bread, Indian tacos and roasted corn were tops on the menu.

Native artisans demonstrated their artwork and shared how it relates to the heritage of the Southeaster Mvskoke Nation.

Gilmore said the Creek Friends Festival was a great opportunity to share the history and heritage of the Southeastern Mvskoke Nation with friends.

“We appreciate all those who attended the Creek Friend’s Festival and hope it was an enjoyable and learning day for all, Gilmore said.