Corn is an integral part of the annual lifecycle of Native American people. Traditionally, corn was an important source of food, as well as a significant element of religious and ceremonial life that brought communities together. For generations, many Native American communities have welcomed the season when corn ripens with a celebration. In recognition of this time-honored tradition, the Institute for American Indian Studies, located in Washington, CT, is holding their 16th annual Green Corn Festival on August 15 from Noon to 4:00 pm at the Riverwalk Pavilion, 11a School Street, in Washington, CT.
Join Museum Staff and Friends as they welcome the first corn of the summer 2021 season with music, drumming, dancing, children’s activities, stories by a professional Native American Storyteller, the sale of arts and crafts, and much more! Riverwalk Pavilion is an idyllic park just minutes from Washington Depot with plenty of parking, a beautiful park, and tables and chairs in a sheltered wooden pavilion.
A highlight of the Green Corn Festival event is the Native Nations Dance Troupe led by Erin Meeches, from the Schaghticoke Tribal Nation. Each dance performed has an uplifting and unique story or purpose. Some use movements that imitate animals and others represent an aspect of cultural significance. These traditional dances are sure to delight because they evoke the beauty, honor, and tradition of Native People.
A special treat of the Green Corn Festival is the chance to try authentic powwow-styled food such as the perennial favorite, frybread, three sisters rice, butternut squash and corn, chicken tacos and kabob, chicken over rice, fruit cups, and fresh fruit kabobs. There will also be several venison choices including venison over rice, venison cheesesteaks, venison kabobs, and tacos. If you work up a thirst, don’t miss the blueberry and sassafras tea!
If you enjoy shopping for handmade Native American arts and crafts, you won’t be disappointed. Vendors will be on hand selling everything from handmade jewelry and flutes to baskets, weavings, and much more.
About Green Corn
The expression “Green Corn” refers to the first ripened sweet corn that you can eat. The Green Corn Ceremony is marked with dancing, feasting, fasting, and religious observations. In the Eastern Woodland areas, Native people depended on three staples – corn, beans, and squash. These food items were so important that they were called “The Three Sisters.” The Three Sisters were mixed together to make a vegetable dish called succotash that is still popular today.
Admission for this event, held rain or shine is $10 for adults; and $ 5 for Members, and free for children under 12. Pre-registration is greatly appreciated for this event by visiting the Institute’s website.
About Institute for American Indian Studies
Located on 15 acres of woodland acres the Institute For American Indian Studies preserves and educates through archeology, research, exhibitions, and programs. They have the 16th c. Algonquian Village, Award-Winning Wigwam Escape, and a museum with temporary and permanent displays of authentic artifacts from prehistory to the present that allows visitors to foster a new understanding of the world and the history and culture of Native Americans. The Institute for American Indian Studies is located on 38 Curtis Road, Washington, CT.
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