Visit MPM to celebrate Indigenous Peoples' Day with special programming and educational resources that highlight Indigenous cultures, traditions, and history.
DATE AND TIME
October 12, 2026
10:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
SPECIAL PERFORMANCE
México Indígena, 11:45 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Enjoy Indigenous dance and drum rhythms native to the Mexica (commonly referred to as Aztecs), with performers dressed in vibrant feather headdresses and traditional regalia.
Powwow Drumming and Dancing, 12:15 p.m. and 1:30 p.m.
Enjoy the powerful sounds of Native American drumming and singing accompanied by dancers in beautiful regalia, showcasing a variety of powwow dance styles.
EXCLUSIVE SCHOOL OPPORTUNITY: LEARN WITH AN EXPERT
From 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., join us for a special interactive session just for schools, with opportunities to ask the above performers questions.
This will be offered to students in person at MPM but can also be livestreamed to your classroom. The in-person program is FREE with admission; space is limited, and guests will likely have to sit on the floor.
To reserve your spots, please complete our field trip request form and mention you’d like to book Learn with an Expert in the notes section.
The virtual livestream is also FREE; registration is required:
Register for the FREE Livestream
Curator Chat
MPM’s Curator of Anthropology Dawn Scher Thomae will be on the Second Floor from noon to 2 p.m. to chat about ongoing Anthropology projects and initiatives at MPM.
EDUCATION STATIONS
MPM Educators will be on the exhibit floors to engage visitors in learning opportunities and hands-on activities about the following topics:
Milwaukee Latino History
Latinos are one of the largest cultural groups to call Milwaukee home and have a rich history throughout Wisconsin. Look back at 150 years of Latino history and how the communities continue to shape the city.
El Maíz: From Wild Grass to Global Grain
Originating in Latin America, corn ends up on our plates in many ways. From tacos, pupusas, arepas, and atole to popcorn and cereal, corn is essential in our cuisine. Learn about this ancient grain, its domestication, and its significance in spirituality.
Manoomin
Manoomin, or wild rice, has long been an essential staple in many Indigenous cultures and communities. Learn more about the food that grows on water, how it is harvested and prepared, and the work that is being done to preserve manoomin for future generations.
Maple Sugaring
Take a look inside the production of maple sugaring, where maple sap comes from, how trees make it, and how people have utilized it for hundreds of years.
Zelia Nuttall
Discover the life of Mexican-American archaeologist and anthropologist Zelia Nuttall, and through her work, immerse yourself in the world of ancient Mesoamerican civilizations!
Ofrenda
Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), a multi-cultural celebration, is a day to celebrate and remember those who have departed. Visit our First Floor to view an authentic display of a traditional ofrenda (altar) and learn more about this pre-Hispanic tradition.
Craft Station
Cempasúchil is the Aztec name for the marigold flower, which has great significance to Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Learn about its importance and create your own at this craft station!