On Randall's Island, Native nations and New Yorkers gather around the drum for a two-day celebration of Indigenous Peoples' Day, with traditional dance, song and food like fry bread. It's billed as the largest commemoration of the day on the East Coast, and it spans the holiday eve into the holiday itself rather than a single afternoon. If you want to mark the holiday as more than a day off, come out while the circle is still going.
What to expect
Expect an open-air gathering on the island's lawns with drum groups, dancers in regalia and vendors selling food and crafts. The event continues into the holiday morning before wrapping up at midday, so the Monday visit is a shorter one.
Good to know
- The Monday portion is a morning; plan to arrive early on the holiday if you're only coming that day.
- The M35 bus from East 125th Street and Lexington Avenue runs to Randall's Island, or walk the footbridge from East 103rd Street.
- Bring cash or a payment app for food and crafts from vendors.
- Dress for the weather; most of the gathering is outdoors on open lawns.
- Ask before photographing dancers or ceremonies.
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Common questions
Where exactly is it held?
Randalls Park on Randall's Island, 20 Randalls Island, in Manhattan.
How late does it run on the holiday?
The listed schedule runs from Sunday morning to midday Monday, so the holiday itself is a morning session.
