By Dana Lance, Media Relations Specialist
Chickasaw Nation Media Relations Office
Loksi (turtle) races, stickball and an archery shoot are just three traditional Chickasaw activities planned for the 11th annual Chikashsha Reunion, set Friday, June 20 and Saturday June 21 at Kullihoma Stomp Ground.
The event is open to the public. There is no charge to attend.
"The Chikashsha Reunion continues to draw Chickasaws from around the country to share their culture, stories and heritage," Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby said.
"The reunion also provides a glimpse into Chickasaw culture for everyone," he added.
Activities will begin Friday morning at 10 a.m., with the Chickasaw Honor Guard posting the flags and a prayer by Leerene Frazier.
Demonstrations begin at 10:30 a.m. Corn husk dolls, beadwork, moccasin making, arrows, basket weaving, Chickasaw language, and traditional clothing demonstrations are planned throughout the two-day event.
Youth activities will begin at 1:30 p.m. Friday and continue until 5 p.m., followed by a hamburger fry at 6 p.m.
A social dance starts at 7 p.m. and continues until 10:30 p.m. on Friday, and traditional storytelling commences immediately after the social dance.
The Chickasaw marble game, Chunkey, will begin at 10:30 a.m., Saturday.
An archery shoot is also planned for 10:30 a.m. Saturday. Archers will compete using a longbow and will be divided into two age groups, adult and junior.
A traditional meal including pashofa, fry bread, salt meat, and grape dumplings will be shared beginning at noon on Saturday.
Following the meal, several activities will begin including loski (turtle) races, squirrel stick throwing and a stickball game, which begins at 6:30 p.m. The evening draws to a close with storytelling and a midnight stomp dance.
Overnight camping spaces are available, including tent spaces and a limited number of RV hook ups.
To reach the site, travel to the Kullihoma sign seven miles northeast of Ada on Highway 1, then travel three miles east and one mile south.
Volunteers are still needed to help with various activities.
For information, or to volunteer, call (580) 332-8685.
