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Native American Heritage Day

Celebrate Native American Heritage Day - Discover the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories of Native American peoples.

Friday

November 2026

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

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YEARLY DATEDay After Thanksgiving

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYNative American

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Celebrate the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories of Native Americans on Native American Heritage Day, taking place on November 29th. This incredible day was introduced in 2008, when the U.S House of Representatives declared the Friday immediately following Thanksgiving as a time to pay tribute to Native Americans for their many contributions to the United States. Native American Heritage Day encourages us to explore the fascinating stories, traditions, and languages of the people whose roots in America run so deeply. So, let's delve into the diverse world of Native American cultures and honor their contributions on this special day!

TIMELINE

Native American Heritage Day Timeline

Columbus Arrives

Christopher Columbus arrived in the Americas, marking the beginning of documented interactions between Native Americans and European settlers.

Indian Removal Act

President Andrew Jackson signed the Indian Removal Act, a law leading to the forced relocation of many Native American tribes, referred to as the Trail of Tears.

Fort Laramie Treaty

The Fort Laramie Treaty was signed, promising the Sioux nation a reservation in the Black Hills. This treaty was later broken, leading to several wars.

Indian Citizenship Act

The U.S. Congress passed the Indian Citizenship Act, granting all Native Americans citizenship and the right to vote.

Indian Child Welfare Act

The U.S. Congress passed the Indian Child Welfare Act, a law that aimed to preserve native families and culture.

Native American Heritage Day Introduced

The U.S. House of Representatives designated the Friday after Thanksgiving as Native American Heritage Day to honor the cultural contributions and history of Native American peoples.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Native American Heritage Day

Visit a Native American Museum

Explore the rich history and art of Native American cultures by visiting a museum dedicated to their heritage. This can be a great opportunity to learn about different tribes, their customs, and their contributions to society.

READ

Read Native American Literature

Delve into the world of Native American literature by reading works by Native American authors. Through their stories and poems, you can gain a deeper understanding of their unique perspectives and experiences.

ATTEND

Attend a Pow Wow

Experience the vibrant culture and traditions of Native American tribes by attending a Pow Wow. You can watch traditional dances, listen to tribal music, and enjoy authentic Native American food.

CREATE

Create Native American Crafts

Celebrate by creating your own Native American inspired crafts. From beadwork to weaving, there are numerous crafting techniques to try. Remember to always approach this activity respectfully, acknowledging the cultural significance of traditional Native American crafts.

SUPPORT

Support Native American-Owned Businesses

Support Native American artisans and entrepreneurs by shopping at Native American-owned businesses. You may find unique, handcrafted items that make wonderful gifts while also supporting indigenous communities.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Native American Heritage Day is Important

It supports Indigenous communities

By promoting support for Native American-owned businesses and artisans, Native American Heritage Day also serves to support these communities economically. This encourages the preservation of traditions and crafts, while providing an authentic and valuable shopping experience for buyers.

It celebrates a rich and diverse culture

Native American Heritage Day is a wonderful opportunity to learn about and celebrate the diverse cultures, traditions, and histories of Native Americans. From their unique languages to their distinctive art forms, each tribe offers something beautiful and unique to appreciate.

It emphasizes the value of education

By encouraging visits to museums, readings of Native American literature, and attendance at cultural events like Pow Wows, this day also advocates for increased knowledge and understanding of Native American contributions – a much-needed perspective in our shared history.