This Weekend Festival At Cumberland Falls State Resort Park Celebrates The Indigenous People Of The Cumberland Plateau

Kentucky's history is vast and fascinating, and the story of the Bluegrass begins much, much earlier than its statehood. For 10,000 years, Indigenous people have called the Cumberland Plateau home, and their story is one worth hearing -- and celebrating. This is the mission of American Indian Heritage Weekend, a three-day festival at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park celebrating the history, culture, and wisdom of Kentucky's first residents.

Long before outdoor enthusiasts were pitching tents, chasing waterfalls, and photographing moonbows at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, Native American people called this area home.

This region -- the Cumberland Plateau -- has been home to Kentucky's Indigenous people for 10,000 years. This is an inextricable part of Bluegrass culture and identity, and there's an upcoming festival that celebrates Kentucky's first residents.

April 21-23 in collaboration with Kentucky’s Indigenous people and the Kentucky Native American Heritage Commission, Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is hosting American Indian Heritage Weekend.

The weekend will be full of amazing opportunities to learn and celebrate the Indigenous people of the Cumberland Plateau, with educational presentations, hands-on learning, craft vendors, art and poetry readings, and even live music!

The festival kicks off with a performance from well-known Navajo flute maker and musician Fred Keams on Friday, April 21 at 7 p.m. Moccasin making, basketry, beadwork, and flint knapping are among the activities on the itinerary.

In addition to the variety of fascinating events and exhibits throughout the weekend, those coming in for American Indian Heritage Weekend who wish to stay at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park's amazing accommodations get 10% discount on lodging for the entire weekend!

For more information or to make your reservation please call 606-528-4121.

History is not confined to the past; it's happening around us, as we live and breathe. Come and celebrate an important part of Kentucky history -- past and present -- at the American Indian Heritage Weekend.

For more information on American Indian Heritage Weekend, please visit the Kentucky State Parks website. This event is free and open to the public, and we encourage you to come and join the festivities!

Watch a preview of Fred Keams playing the Navajo flutes in this video c/o Scott County Public Library on YouTube:

Of course, we never need a reason to visit Cumberland Falls State Resort Park... it's one of our favorite of all the Kentucky State Parks!