Ganondagan Native American Dance and Music Festival in Victor, New York
My husband is part Mohawk, so all things Native American are of interest to us. In our opinion, the annual Ganondagan Native American Dance and Music Festival is the best summer festival in the Rochester, NY area.
Ganandogan was a village of the Seneca nation on the border of Iroquois territory. Today, a reconstructed longhouse stands atop a hill that was once part of the Ganandogan village. Many still believe that Ganondagan is a sacred place. The sacred vibrations are said to be highest at the hilltop.
The Ganondagan Native American Dance and Music Festival is interesting, educational, entertaining, and interactive! It has something for everyone- from senior citizens to children.
Shows:
If you go to the Ganondagan Native American Dance and Music Festival, going to the shows is a must! The festival features Native American dancers and musicians as well as other traditional or indigenous performers.Most of the shows are in the big tent, so get there early for a good seat. (You can pick up a schedule at the gate.) All of the shows are included in the price of admission.
Demonstrations and activities:
You'll have time between shows to check out some of the Native American demonstrations. You can watch demonstrations and ask questions about porcupine quillwork, raised beading, or moccasin making; to name a few. There are also storytellers to listen to and drumming circles to participate in.
Activities for kids:
If you're bringing children, they'll be sure to spot the drumming circles right away! Children are welcome to participate in them along with the adults. Little ones also enjoy making corn-husk dolls, with guidance from workshop leaders.
Arts and Crafts Show:
There are plenty of arts and crafts vendors at the Ganondagan Native American Dance and Music Festival. This festival differs from most in the fact that only Native American vendors are permitted. If you're looking for some true Native American arts and crafts, you've come to the right place!
Longhouse tour:
The Senecas lived in longhouses, which are permanent structures. The longhouse at Ganondagan is open during the festival for guided tours and the tour guides are happy to answer any questions that you may have. Longhouse tours are included in the price of admission.
The longhouse on the hilltop is considered to be a sacred space, and there's a spot about 80 feet away from it where the vibes are strongest.
Food:
Every festival is about food to me, so the report is that the food is superb! Of course, there's the tradition Indian fry-bread and "hash". (Hash is a potato stuffing that, to me, tastes a lot like sausage.) Beyond that, though, is the best shortcake you've ever had! It comes in strawberry, blueberry, and raspberry; and is a must-have at the Ganondagan Native American Dance and Music Festival! The food prices are reasonable for festival fare.
Admission and hours:
The Ganondagan Native American Dance and Music Festival is held during the last weekend of July each year. (July 25 & 26, 2009 from 10 am - 6 pm each day.) Admission is $8 for a one-day adult pass and $10 for a two-day adult pass. Admission for seniors, students, and people with Tribal ID's is $5 for a one-day pass, $7 for a two-day pass. Ages 4- 12: $2 and $3. Children 3 and under: free.
Ganondagan State Historic Site is located on Boughton Hill Road in Victor, NY.
Sources:
http://www.ganondagan.org/NADMF.html
http://www.jubileeinitiative.org/SacredGanondagan.html
Kay Whittenhauer
*Kay Whittenhauer is a freelance writer residing in Rochester, NY. To read more of her work on Associated Content, please click here.
Published by Kay Whittenhauer
Kay Whittenhauer resides in Rochester, NY, with her husband, their teenage son, and a rambunctious dog of mysterious pedigree. She works year-round as an office administrator at a non-profit organization and... View profile
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8 Comments
Post a CommentExcellently written! Johnny Yuma
This sounds like something I'd really like.
Hmmm...just got notified of your latest article and saw this one too...must have fallen into that big gaping missing AC notification problem! This sounds colorful and fun.
This sounds like an exciting event. Thanks for sharing, Kay!
Sophie
Wonderful article on the Ganondagan dance festival. This sounds like so much fun!
Truly fascinating!
I have been out here for six years now, and I STILL haven't yet made it out to this.....it's quite shameful. Thanks for the kick in the pants to get out there this year! :-)
Sounds facinating. Thanks for sharing.