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X-WR-CALNAME:Aktá Lakota Museum & Cultural Center
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://aktalakota.stjo.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Aktá Lakota Museum & Cultural Center
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DTSTART;TZID=America/North_Dakota/Center:20260707T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/North_Dakota/Center:20260707T113000
DTSTAMP:20260507T153445Z
CREATED:20260507T153445Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T153445Z
UID:25834304-1783420200-1783423800@aktalakota.stjo.org
SUMMARY:Story Time with Uŋčí & Lalá
DESCRIPTION:🗓️ July 7 | 🕥 10:30 AM | 📍 Museum Bookstore | 🎟️ Free Admission \nThe Aktá Lakota Museum invites families and visitors of all ages to join us for another special edition of Story Time with Uŋčí & Lalá on Tuesday\, July 7. \nThis week’s featured book is The Forever Sky by Thomas Peacock\, illustrated by Annette S. Lee\, and published by the Minnesota Historical Society Press. \nIn this touching and beautifully illustrated story\, brothers Niigaanii and Bineshiinh find comfort after the loss of their grandmother\, Nooko\, by listening to stories shared beneath the night sky. As they gaze at the stars with their uncle\, they learn that the sky is filled with meaning\, memory\, and spirit. \nNight after night\, the boys discover stories among the constellations—seeing animals\, pathways\, and connections between the earth and sky. When the northern lights begin to dance overhead\, they realize the spirits of loved ones are among them\, reminding them that those we love are never truly gone. \nThe Forever Sky is a heartfelt story about family\, remembrance\, culture\, and the teachings found in the natural world. Perfect for readers of all ages—especially children ages 4–8—it encourages reflection\, imagination\, and connection through Indigenous storytelling traditions. \nFollowing the reading\, guests are invited to participate in interactive cultural activities designed for the whole family to enjoy. Stickers will also be available for everyone attending. \nNo registration is required—just come ready for a fun and meaningful learning experience at Aktá Lakota Museum.
URL:https://aktalakota.stjo.org/event/story-time-with-unci-lala-15/
LOCATION:Aktá Lakota Museum\, St. Joseph's Indian School\, Chamberlain\, SD\, 57325\, United States
CATEGORIES:Story Time
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://aktalakota.stjo.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/The-Forever-Sky.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Akt%C3%A1 Lakota Museum":MAILTO:aktalakota@stjo.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/North_Dakota/Center:20260714T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/North_Dakota/Center:20260714T113000
DTSTAMP:20260507T153840Z
CREATED:20260507T153840Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T153840Z
UID:25834307-1784025000-1784028600@aktalakota.stjo.org
SUMMARY:Story Time with Uŋčí & Lalá
DESCRIPTION:🗓️ July 14 | 🕥 10:30 AM | 📍 Museum Bookstore | 🎟️ Free Admission \nJoin the Aktá Lakota Museum for another engaging summer morning of storytelling\, culture\, and family fun during Story Time with Uŋčí & Lalá on Tuesday\, July 14. \nThis week’s featured book is Native American Twelve Days of Christmas by Gary Robinson\, illustrated by Jesse T. Hummingbird\, and published by 7th Generation. \nInspired by the beloved traditional English carol The Twelve Days of Christmas\, this unique adaptation celebrates the rich diversity of Native American cultures and traditions from across the United States. Each “day” highlights gifts and cultural teachings connected to twelve different Native American cultural groups\, offering readers a meaningful and educational journey through Indigenous traditions. \nThe book also includes easy-to-understand cultural background information for each featured gift\, helping readers better understand the traditions\, stories\, and histories behind the adapted lyrics. This beautifully illustrated story serves as a wonderful companion to the popular Native American Night Before Christmas. \nFollowing the reading\, children and guests are invited to participate in interactive cultural activity designed for the whole family to enjoy. Stickers will also be available for everyone attending. \nStory Time with Uŋčí & Lalá is free and open to all ages. No registration is required—just come ready for a fun and meaningful learning experience celebrating Native American stories\, traditions\, and community connections.
URL:https://aktalakota.stjo.org/event/story-time-with-unci-lala-16/
LOCATION:Aktá Lakota Museum\, St. Joseph's Indian School\, Chamberlain\, SD\, 57325\, United States
CATEGORIES:Story Time
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://aktalakota.stjo.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/NA-The-Twelve-Days-of-Christmas.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Akt%C3%A1 Lakota Museum":MAILTO:aktalakota@stjo.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/North_Dakota/Center:20260721T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/North_Dakota/Center:20260721T113000
DTSTAMP:20260507T154251Z
CREATED:20260507T154251Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T154251Z
UID:25834310-1784629800-1784633400@aktalakota.stjo.org
SUMMARY:Story Time with Uŋčí & Lalá
DESCRIPTION:🗓️ July 21 | 🕥 10:30 AM | 📍 Museum Bookstore | 🎟️ Free Admission \nJoin the Aktá Lakota Museum for another meaningful morning of storytelling\, culture\, and family fun during Story Time with Uŋčí & Lalá on Tuesday\, July 21. \nThis week’s featured book is How the Birds Got Their Songs by Marcus Ammesmaki and Travis Zimmerman\, illustrated by Sam Zimmerman\, and published by the Minnesota Historical Society Press. \nThis treasured traditional story\, shared in both English and Ojibwe\, tells how the Great Spirit gave each bird its unique and beautiful song. Long ago\, when Mother Earth was still young\, the Great Spirit noticed how quiet the world seemed. Wanting to fill the earth with music\, he gathered all the birds and challenged them to a contest: whichever bird could fly the highest would receive the prettiest song. \nPassed down through author Travis Zimmerman’s family\, this story shares traditional knowledge from the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa. The vibrant illustrations by Grand Portage descendant Sam Zimmerman beautifully capture the movement and spirit of the birds\, while Marcus Ammesmaki’s Ojibwemowin retelling encourages readers and language learners alike to connect with Indigenous language and storytelling traditions. \nPerfect for children and families\, this engaging story invites readers to appreciate the beauty of nature\, the importance of humility\, and the gift of birdsong all around us. \nFollowing the reading\, guests are invited to participate in interactive cultural activities designed for the whole family to enjoy. Stickers will also be available for everyone attending. \nNo registration is required—just come ready for a fun and meaningful learning experience celebrating American Indian storytelling and culture.
URL:https://aktalakota.stjo.org/event/story-time-with-unci-lala-17/
LOCATION:Aktá Lakota Museum\, St. Joseph's Indian School\, Chamberlain\, SD\, 57325\, United States
CATEGORIES:Story Time
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://aktalakota.stjo.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/How-the-Birds-Got-Thier-Songs.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Akt%C3%A1 Lakota Museum":MAILTO:aktalakota@stjo.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/North_Dakota/Center:20260728T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/North_Dakota/Center:20260728T113000
DTSTAMP:20260507T154634Z
CREATED:20260507T154526Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T154634Z
UID:25834314-1785234600-1785238200@aktalakota.stjo.org
SUMMARY:Story Time with Uŋčí & Lalá
DESCRIPTION:🗓️ July 28 | 🕥 10:30 AM | 📍 Museum Bookstore | 🎟️ Free Admission \nJoin the Aktá Lakota for the final Story Time with Uŋčí & Lalá of the summer season on Tuesday\, July 28. \nThis week’s featured book is Halhata na Thathanka | Magpie and Buffalo\, written and illustrated by Lakota author and artist Alfreda Beartrack Algeo\, translated by Violet Catches and published by the South Dakota Historical Society Press. \nThis beautifully illustrated bilingual board book serves as a meaningful introduction for young children to the important role the American bison—commonly known as the buffalo—has played in Lakota life and culture. Through simple storytelling and engaging artwork\, readers follow Magpie (Halhata) as she teaches about the many ways Buffalo (Thathanka) provided for the Lakota people throughout history\, offering food\, clothing\, shelter\, and materials used in ceremonies and everyday life. \nWith Lakota translations by Violet Catches\, the book also introduces children and families to Lakota language and terminology\, making it both an educational and cultural learning experience for readers of all ages. \nPerfect for young children and families\, this special Story Time celebrates the connection between the Lakota people\, language\, storytelling\, and the buffalo—an animal deeply respected throughout the Northern Plains. \nFollowing the reading\, guests are invited to participate in interactive cultural activities designed for the whole family to enjoy. Stickers will also be available for everyone attending. \nNo registration is required—just come ready for a fun and meaningful learning experience celebrating American Indian storytelling\, language\, and culture.
URL:https://aktalakota.stjo.org/event/story-time-with-unci-lala-18/
LOCATION:Aktá Lakota Museum\, St. Joseph's Indian School\, Chamberlain\, SD\, 57325\, United States
CATEGORIES:Story Time
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://aktalakota.stjo.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Magie-Pie-and-Buffalo.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Akt%C3%A1 Lakota Museum":MAILTO:aktalakota@stjo.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/North_Dakota/Center:20260917T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/North_Dakota/Center:20260919T170000
DTSTAMP:20260908T171706Z
CREATED:20260908T171529Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260908T171706Z
UID:25834398-1789632000-1789837200@aktalakota.stjo.org
SUMMARY:50th Annual Powwow & Cultural Celebration
DESCRIPTION:St. Joseph’s Indian School\nSeptember 17–19\, 2026 | Chamberlain\, South Dakota \nFor 50 years\, St. Joseph’s Indian School has welcomed families\, alumni\, students\, and friends to gather in celebration of Native culture\, community\, and tradition. This September\, we invite you to be part of a very special milestone as we celebrate the 50th Annual Powwow & Cultural Celebration. \nThis cherished tradition honors the rich cultural heritage of the Lakota people and brings generations together to celebrate through dance\, music\, storytelling\, and fellowship. Whether you’re returning as an alumnus\, visiting for the first time\, or joining family and friends\, Powwow Weekend offers meaningful opportunities to experience the spirit and traditions that continue to shape our community. \nA Weekend of Celebration \nThe festivities begin on Thursday\, September 17\, with registration in the Recreation Center\, followed by an open house at the Equine Therapy Center. Guests are also invited to participate in Circle of Culture: Alumni Teaching Traditions\, where alumni share cultural knowledge\, personal stories\, and traditional skills in our newly expanded Recreation Center. \nOn Friday\, visitors can enjoy a full day of cultural enrichment with activities throughout campus\, including guided tours of St. Joseph’s Indian School\, the Health Care Center\, and the Aktá Lakota Museum. The day concludes with a cultural performance and an Alumni Thiyóšpaye (extended-family) Social\, providing time to reconnect and celebrate together. \nThe celebration reaches its peak on Saturday as guests tour our student homes before gathering for the blessing of the powwow grounds. At noon\, the Grand Entry begins\, with dancers and drum groups filling the arena in a moving display of honor\, tradition\, and pride. The weekend concludes with evening Mass\, the presentation of competition awards\, and a community meal shared among friends and family. \nDance\, Drum\, and Tradition \nThroughout the powwow\, dancers will compete in three age divisions—Tiny Tots\, Juniors\, and Teens—in a variety of traditional categories\, including Traditional Dance\, Fancy Dance\, Grass Dance\, and Jingle Dress. Drum groups from across the Dakotas will also participate in spirited competition\, with cash prizes awarded to registered dancers and drum groups. \nEveryone Is Welcome \nAll Powwow activities take place on the campus of St. Joseph’s Indian School in Chamberlain\, South Dakota. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early\, register\, and take time to explore the Aktá Lakota Museum\, take part in campus tours\, and experience the welcoming atmosphere that has made this celebration a treasured tradition for five decades. \nAs we celebrate our 50th Annual Powwow\, we honor the generations who have preserved these traditions and look forward to sharing this weekend with new friends and returning families alike. \nFor a complete schedule of events\, visit stjo.org or call 855-777-3433.
URL:https://aktalakota.stjo.org/event/50th-annual-powwow-cultural-celebration/
LOCATION:SD
CATEGORIES:Powwow
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://aktalakota.stjo.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/2023-Registration-Page-Header.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/North_Dakota/Center:20260918T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/North_Dakota/Center:20260918T170000
DTSTAMP:20260909T141712Z
CREATED:20260909T141712Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260909T141712Z
UID:25834426-1789725600-1789750800@aktalakota.stjo.org
SUMMARY:Author Presentation & Book Signing
DESCRIPTION:Join us at the Aktá Lakota Museum for a special presentation and book signing with acclaimed historian Paul L. Hedren\, author of the newly released Sitting Bull’s War: The Battle of Little Big Horn and the Fight for Buffalo and Freedom on the Plains.  Hedren will share insights from his latest work\, followed by an opportunity to meet the author and have your book signed. \nSeptember 18 | 10:00 AM | Aktá Lakota Museum  \nAuthor presentation in the Museum Theater Area; book signing to follow throughout the day.  This event is free and open to everyone.
URL:https://aktalakota.stjo.org/event/author-presentation-book-signing/
LOCATION:Aktá Lakota Museum\, St. Joseph's Indian School\, Chamberlain\, SD\, 57325\, United States
CATEGORIES:Special Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://aktalakota.stjo.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Book-Signing-Event-e1788961935674.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Akt%C3%A1 Lakota Museum":MAILTO:aktalakota@stjo.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/North_Dakota/Center:20260919T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/North_Dakota/Center:20260919T120000
DTSTAMP:20260909T142302Z
CREATED:20260909T142302Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260909T142302Z
UID:25834429-1789808400-1789819200@aktalakota.stjo.org
SUMMARY:Book Signing!
DESCRIPTION:Join us at the Aktá Lakota Museum for a special book signing with acclaimed historian Paul L. Hedren\, author of the newly released Sitting Bull’s War: The Battle of Little Big Horn and the Fight for Buffalo and Freedom on the Plains. \nMeet the author\, learn more about his latest work\, and have your copy signed. \nSeptember 19 | 9:00 AM–Noon | Aktá Lakota Museum \nThis event is free and open to everyone. All are welcome!
URL:https://aktalakota.stjo.org/event/book-signing/
LOCATION:Aktá Lakota Museum\, St. Joseph's Indian School\, Chamberlain\, SD\, 57325\, United States
CATEGORIES:Special Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://aktalakota.stjo.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/09.19.2026_Book-Signing.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Akt%C3%A1 Lakota Museum":MAILTO:aktalakota@stjo.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/North_Dakota/Center:20261107T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/North_Dakota/Center:20270107T163000
DTSTAMP:20241031T141543Z
CREATED:20241031T135426Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241031T141543Z
UID:7719-1794038400-1799339400@aktalakota.stjo.org
SUMMARY:"Americans"
DESCRIPTION:The South Dakota Humanities Council is bringing Americans\, a Smithsonian Institution traveling exhibition to the Aktá Lakota Museum for an exclusive tour in 2026! \nBased on a major exhibition at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian in Washington\, DC\, Americans explores how deeply intertwined American Indians are in the culture of the United States. \nAmerican Indians are less than 1% of the population\, yet images of Indians are everywhere.  American Indian images\, names\, and stories infuse American history and contemporary life. Pervasive\, powerful\, at times demeaning\, the images\, names\, and stories reveal how Indians have been embedded in unexpected ways in the history\, pop culture\, and identity of the United States. \nAmericans surrounds visitors with images and objects from popular culture and delves into these historical events.  The exhibition invites visitors to explore this complicated history and to share local stories about Native American history\, culture and identity. \nSouth Dakota Host and Partner Sites.\nSeptember 12 – October 31\, 2026 – SDSU Briggs Library\, Brookings\nNovember 7\, 2026 – January 9\, 2027 – Aktá Lakota Museum\, St. Joseph’s Indian School\, Chamberlain\nJanuary 16 – March 6\, 2027 – The Heritage Center\, Red Cloud Indian School\, Pine Ridge\nMarch 13 – May 1\, 2027 – AH Brown Library\, Scherr Howe Event Center\, Mobridge\nMay 8 – June 26\, 2027 – W.H. Over Museum\, USD\, Vermillion \n 
URL:https://aktalakota.stjo.org/event/americans-smithsonian-exhibition/
LOCATION:Aktá Lakota Museum\, St. Joseph's Indian School\, Chamberlain\, SD\, 57325\, United States
CATEGORIES:Exhibits,Special Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://aktalakota.stjo.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/americans-exhibit1.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Akt%C3%A1 Lakota Museum":MAILTO:aktalakota@stjo.org
END:VEVENT
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