A free Cultural Gathering celebrating Yavapai heritage and shared Yuman cultural connections is scheduled to take place at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village on Saturday, Nov. 7, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. This event, which marks Native American Heritage Month, is described as the first of its kind in Sedona, focusing on honoring the Red Rocks in Yavapai language and tradition.
The gathering will feature traditional Bird Singers from across Arizona and Elder Rafeal Bear, a fluent Yavapai speaker. Elder Bear plans to offer Yavapai storytelling, sharing cultural reflections and narratives that highlight the enduring connection to the land and the profound cultural significance of the Red Rocks for the people who have always called this region home. Five Bird Singing groups and singers are confirmed to participate, including Michael Mirelez of D.C. Bird Group, Ral Christman of Ashaatakook, Garfield Nish of Red Mountain Bird, Yavapai Bird Singer Kynoe, and the Parker Boys with Aniah K Booth. Salt Singer Matthew Cruz will also perform. Bird Songs and Bird Dances are identified as the traditional social songs of the Yuman-speaking peoples of the Colorado River and central Arizona; the singers intend to explain the meaning of individual songs to enhance the audience's understanding.
Event coordinator Waldine Fox stated that the day is designed not as a performance but as "one continuous cultural experience," encompassing songs, dances, storytelling, and open conversation with the participating singers and the Elder. Fox expressed her hope to create a welcoming, meaningful space where people can acknowledge Sedona as sacred Yavapai homeland and experience the living cultures that are proudly carried forward. By bringing together singers connected through Yuman languages and shared stories along the Colorado River, Fox aims for attendees to gain a deeper understanding of the songs, gratitude for the land, and foster a connection that helps keep these traditions alive for future generations. Bird Singers and Bird Dancers from throughout the region are encouraged to join in, reflecting community traditions.
Organized by Waldine Fox, the gathering is sponsored by Tlaquepaque, Rowe Fine Art Gallery, and Sedona Precious Metals. Rowe Fine Art Gallery, located within Tlaquepaque and known for its wildlife and Western bronze and painted work, is supporting the event as part of its November focus on honoring the history and heritage of the region. Brett Labit, president of Creative Gateways and Rowe Fine Art Gallery, highlighted that Sedona’s Red Rocks were considered sacred long before they became a popular destination, stating that Rowe Fine Art Gallery is honored to help bring the songs, dances, and stories of the people who have always known this to the heart of Tlaquepaque.
The cultural gathering is free and open to all community members. Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village is located at 336 State Route 179 in Sedona. Additionally, an associated event, First Friday at Tlaquepaque, will be held the evening prior, Friday, Nov. 6, from 4–7 p.m. During this time, Creative Gateways Gallery, a sister gallery to Rowe within the village, will host a live abstract acrylic painting demonstration by artist Kay Nari.