Annual Events


A group of students and teachers doing Indigenous art

Indigenous Arts Initiative (IAI)

IAI supports a rotating series of Indigenous art labs that provide artists an opportunity to hone creative skills, expand professional networks and gain leadership experience through collaborative, mentor-based programming at the University of Kansas.
Three Indigenous women standing on a stage with a KU podium

Indigenous Peoples' Day Celebration

Indigenous Peoples’ Day is a holiday that celebrates and honors  the United States and it's relationship with Native American peoples, and commemorates their histories and cultures. It is celebrated across the United States on the second Monday in October. Since 2019, the University of Kanas has celebrated the week before and the week of Indigenous Peoples' Day.

Many Indigenous Dancers in a powwow

KU FNSA Powwow

Students at the University of Kansas have hosted the annual KU FNSA Powwow for over 30 years for the entire KU community. The FNSA Powwow brings visibility and community by celebrating Native American cultures through dance, song, and honoring traditions.

FNSA Powwow Website

A tepee being set up in front of the Lied Center

KU Indigenous Cultures Festival

Engage in free educational activities for kids and adults that aims to educate the community about the uniqueness of Native American people in the United States.

ICF Website

Native faculty and staff at a luncheon

NFSC Gatherings

A tradition carried on from the late, Patti Wakolee, the NFSC gatherings, is a collective of Haskell and KU faculty and staff to enjoy a meal together and laugh in community.