21st Annual - Native American Winter Games
Saturday, February 17, 2024- 10 am to 4 pm
Event will take place with or without snow
Free and Open to the public
Suggested donation $10 per family
During the long harsh winters in Western New York, the Seneca nestled in their bark longhouses to repair clothing, make tools and prepare for the spring. Despite the winter weather, Senecas remained active throughout the season. Many of the winter activities that traditionally occupied them outdoors are still in practice today.
Outdoor Schedule
Dog Sledding Demonstrations
Learn about dog sled team racing and meet the Kindred Moon Kennels dog sled team.
Location: Outside in front of Seneca Art & Culture Center
Time: 11 AM- 2:30 PM
Snowsnake
Hear Snowsnake expert "Snooky" Brooks (Seneca) share about the traditional Haudenosaunee game of snowsnake and snowsnake making.
Location: Outside behind Bark Longhouse (inside if there is no snow)
Time: 11 AM - 3 PM
Snow shoeing or enjoy a winter hike
Check out Ganodagan's trails, perfect for a winter hike, or a snowshoe trek (as long as we have snow).
Indoor Schedule
Learn how Maple sap is processed into sugar with demonstrator Belinda Patterson (Tuscarora)
Location: Auditorium
Time: 11 AM - 3 PM
Cornhusk Doll Workshop
Saturday, February 17th, 2024 | 10:30 AM - 12 PM
Join us for this special cornhusk doll workshop! This workshop will present the importance of corn to the Seneca people and its many uses. The instructor, Ronnie Reitter (Seneca, Wolf Clan), will show different examples of cornhusk items to the participates. Participants will hear the story of "The No Face Cornhusk Doll" and construct their own individual doll. After you are done, enjoy the Native American Winter Games event featuring traditional games, Haudenosaunee storytelling, snow snake, dog sledding and more!
Pre-registration is required, limited space available. Appropriate for ages 9 and up. For questions please contact info@ganondagan.org.
Sponsor
Thank you to the Rochester Area Community Foundation who helped make this event possible