Cultural Events
Cultural & Indigenous Marketplace
SACNAS aims to provide a space for authentic, Indigenous handmade items that support Indigenous art and culture. Handcrafted items can include clothing, jewelry, art, and home goods. All vendors must comply with the Indian Arts and Crafts Act (IACA) of 1990 (P.L. 101-6644) which prohibits misrepresentation in marketing of Indian arts and crafts products within the United States.
The Cultural & Indigenous Marketplace is a conference favorite and high-level attraction! Each year the marketplace attracts Indigenous artists and craftspeople from across the country and territories who bring their handmade items to share and sell at our conference. The items offered include jewelry, beadwork, quillwork, paintings, pottery, baskets, loom work, blankets, quilts, ribbon skirts, and much more! Be sure and make time to visit the marketplace during your time at the 2025 NDiSTEM Conference.
Cultural & Indigenous Marketplace hours:
Wednesday, October 29 | 10:00am - 6:00pm
Thursday, October 30 | 9:00am - 6:00pm
Friday, October 31 | 9:00am - 9:00pm
Saturday, November 1 | 9:00am - 9:00pm
SACNAS Intertribal Powwow
The SACNAS Powwow is one of our key cultural celebrations at the NDiSTEM Conference. This gathering provides a space for attendees to celebrate culture together. To those who wish are welcome to bring their regalia and join us in the dancing arena.
This year’s powwow is open exclusively to conference participants, creating an intimate and memorable experience. Seating will be available, and arts and crafts vendors from our marketplace will be on site. Don’t miss this chance to come together, connect, and celebrate.
Grand Entry is at 6:30 pm.
Please view our guide for more information!
Friday, October 31 | 6:30pm to 8:30pm
Pachanga
Saturday, November 1 | 7:00pm-9:00pm
Día De Los Muertos Ofrenda
(Day of the Dead Offering/Altar)
Día De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is an annual Mexican day of celebration for people to gather and remember those who have passed, primarily through an ofrenda, or altar, where individuals place “offerings” such as photos and mementos of loved ones. With this year’s conference falling on Día De Los Muertos, SACNAS will provide a community altar for attendees to participate in this celebration throughout the conference. Just make sure to pack your photos and mementos to place on the altar!
How to participate:
Attendees are invited to bring a photo or a momento honoring their loved ones, to place on the SACNAS ofrenda during the conference (location & hours TBD). IMPORTANT NOTE: In accordance with our smoke and alcohol policy, please refrain from adding alcohol, cigarettes, or other flammable items (e.g. candles, incense) to the ofrenda.
SACNAS will provide:
- Altar space for attendees to place framed photos and/or hang photos (via cork board)
- Framed photos of SACNAS Founders, Elders, & Past Presidents
- Other decorations