Choctaw Cultural Center hosts Choctaw-Irish Friendship Festival March 13-14

DURANT, Okla. – The Choctaw Cultural Center’s Choctaw-Irish Friendship Festival this year will fill two days with activities on the weekend before St. Patrick’s Day. The festival runs Friday, March 13 and Saturday, March 14 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. at the Choctaw Cultural Center, 1919 Hina Hanta Way in Durant.

The annual event commemorates the historic connection between the two nations which began in 1847. At the time, Choctaw people had little to share after their tragic journey on the Trail of Tears barely a decade before. But, when they learned of the Great Famine in Ireland, there was immediate sympathy. The Choctaw people raised $170, equal to over $5,000 today, and the funds were donated directly to the Irish people. The Choctaw gift was credited with saving thousands of lives, and the Irish have never forgotten the kindness.

The family-friendly event at the cultural center will feature a live concert at 1:30 p.m. March 13 by River Driver, Texas’ foremost folk-rock band known for its updates of traditional Celtic songs.

Both days will include a Choctaw art market, Irish vendors, curator talks, and children’s activities., and on March 14 at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Frybread-making workshops will be offered. Demonstrations are scheduled for traditional games and social dances, stickball, silversmithing, blacksmithing and more. An ongoing silent auction of original art will provide a fundraiser for the cultural center.

For times, updates, and advance tickets, visit the Choctaw-Irish Friendship Festival webpage.

Admission is complimentary for members of the Choctaw Nation and people with museum memberships. General admission also has discounts for active military, veterans, college students, senior citizens, citizens of other tribes, children and Choctaw Nation associates.