Cherokee Blog

While the official Native American Heritage Day falls on the Friday after Thanksgiving, we are celebrating early in Cherokee, NC. On Saturday, November 12, the Museum of the Cherokee Indian will host a day of fun activities from Cherokee traditions. 

The Museum of the Cherokee Indian will host a new program series called Cherokee Heritage Day on the second Saturday of every month, beginning in January. This event—free and open to the public—will feature hands-on activities, storytelling, dance, and cultural demonstrations, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The first Cherokee Heritage Day will take place on Saturday, January 14.

With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, love is in the air! There’s no better time than February to reflect on the people, things, and places that you are happy to have in your life. Whether you’re a first-timer or a frequent visitor, if you’ve ever been to Cherokee, NC, you’ve likely experienced a special connection with this beautiful and sacred land.

A special cultural attraction in Cherokee, NC, makes such time traveling possible! At the Oconaluftee Indian Village, guests can explore an historical Cherokee village, watch award-winning artists in action, and learn about traditional dance through living exhibit demonstrations.

(Artist, Suzi Nonn of Naturally Yours)

In 2002, beloved gourd artist Jerry Lewis of California founded the first Gourd Gathering in Cherokee, NC, as an opportunity for fellow craftspeople to meet and share their methods. Over the years, it became known as a “reunion” among guests. When Jerry passed away, new coordinators stepped up to ensure that the event carried on and was successful.

Today, the annual Gourd Gathering at Cherokee continues to bring people from all over the country together. The next event will take place Thursday through Sunday, June 1–4, 2017. Entry is free, while classes vary in costs.

Artists and enthusiasts alike may see gourds in a whole new light. Gourd artists meet for four days to exchange ideas...