11 saved#4,960 of 6,224

Native American Day

Honor and celebrate the rich cultures, traditions, and histories of Native Americans on this unique day! Stand with indigenous pride!

Friday

September 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

Have an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEFourth Friday in September

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYNative American

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Join us in celebrating the vibrant cultures, centuries-old traditions, and rich histories of the original inhabitants of America on Native American Day, which falls on the fourth Friday in September! This day was originally championed by the state of California in 1968, as a counter-celebration to Columbus Day, aiming to honor the cultural contributions and the historical significance of Native Americans. With a deep-rooted history spanning thousands of years, there's no doubt that Native Americans have played a vital role in shaping the country we love and know today. Stand with indigenous pride on these meaningful occasion!

TIMELINE

Native American Day Timeline

California Establishes Native American Day

The state of California became the first to acknowledge Native American contributions by establishing Native American Day as an official holiday.

South Dakota's Observe Native American Day

South Dakota became the second state to establish Native American Day, offering a counter-celebration to Columbus Day.

Bill to Establish a Federal Holiday

Congress received a proposal bill to make Native American Day a federal holiday, but it did not pass.

President Bill Clinton's Proclamation

President Bill Clinton signed a proclamation designating November as National American Indian Heritage Month, acknowledging the historical and cultural contributions of Native Americans.

President Obama's Proclamation

President Barack Obama proclaimed November as National Native American Heritage Month, furthering recognition of Native Americans' contribution to the U.S.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Native American Day

Attend a pow wow

Pow Wows are Native American cultural gatherings featuring music, dance, and various expressions of tribal heritage. Attending one carries the opportunity to experience the vibrant and diverse cultures of Native American tribes.

COOK

Cook a traditional Native American meal

Celebrate by preparing a meal using traditional Native American ingredients. Corn, beans, squash, and game meats all feature in indigenous culinary traditions.

READ

Read works by Native American authors

Explore the rich literary tradition of Native Americans by reading works by indigenous authors. Consider titles like "There There" by Tommy Orange or "The Round House" by Louise Erdrich.

VISIT

Visit a Native American historical site or museum

Many cities and towns have museums or historic sites dedicated to preserving native cultures and their influence on the country. Discover local Native American history close to you.

SUPPORT

Support Native American businesses

Make a conscious effort to support Native American-owned businesses. Whether it's jewelry, clothing, artwork, or food, your purchases help support communities and allow beautiful craftsmanship and unique cultural products to be shared more widely.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Native American Day is Important

Support for Native American Communities

Lastly, National Native American Day is a call to support indigenous communities. By promoting businesses owned by Native Americans, we can help sustain these communities and further their cultural visibility. This support enhances indigenous craftsmanship and allows for the broad sharing of unique cultural products.

Native American Day Celebrates Rich, Diverse Cultures

We adore Native American Day because it's a unique opportunity to immerse ourselves in the vibrant, diverse indigenous cultures that have played such a significant role in shaping the United States. From attending pow wows to cooking traditional meals, this day provides chances to engage directly with Native American heritage.

It Promotes Cultural Education

We love that Native American Day stimulates education about the histories, traditions, and contributions of Native American tribes. Whether through reading works created by indigenous authors or visiting museums and historical sites, this day encourages all of us to learn more about these rich and diverse cultures.