Visit MPM to celebrate Indigenous Peoples' Day with special programming and educational resources that highlight Indigenous cultures, traditions, and history.
DATE AND TIME
October 13, 2025
10:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
FREE with general admission.
SPECIAL PERFORMANCE
Learn with an Expert: México Indígena and Little Priest, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Attend a special interactive performance featuring dancing and drumming native to the Aztecs from the group México Indígena, as well as rhythms and singing from the Ho-Chunk drum group Little Priest accompanied by dancers showcasing different styles of powwow dances. In between the demonstrations, guests will have the opportunity to ask performers questions. This will be offered in person at MPM but will also be livestreamed.
Register for the FREE livestream
Schools must register for the Learn with an Expert session. Due to high demand, school spots are full and registration for school groups is now closed. Limited seating for the general public will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. If you would like to tune in virtually, please register at the link above. School groups and the general public can also attend the below additional performances as space allows.
Additional Performances
No registration needed. Seating available on a first-come, first-served basis.
México Indígena, 12:30 p.m.
Enjoy dance and drum rhythms native to the Aztecs from the dance group México Indígena.
Little Priest, 1:30 p.m.
Enjoy drumming and singing by Ho-Chunk drum group Little Priest, accompanied by dancers showcasing different styles of powwow dances.
Curator Chats
MPM’s Curator of Anthropology Dawn Scher Thomae will be on the Second Floor from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. to chat about ongoing Anthropology projects and initiatives at MPM.
BONUS ONSITE LEARNING
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.
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!
White Corn
White corn is a type of corn grown by the Oneida people that has more protein, larger kernels, larger cobs, and a different appearance than yellow corn. Learn more about white corn, corn’s significance in the Americas, and how the Oneida cultivated white corn to what it is today.
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.
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!