Native American Heritage Month 2026: Theme, History, Events & Ways to Celebrate

Native American Heritage Month is observed every November to honor the cultures, traditions, histories and contributions of Native peoples in the United States. In 2026, it runs from Sunday, November 1 to Monday, November 30.

Native American Heritage Month 2026: Key Facts

Themes vary by organization, university and city. For example, one Washington, D.C. campus group is using "Stories of Our Past, Letters to Our Future," and a Dallas college is using "Remembering the Resilience of Native/Indigenous Ancestors."

What Is Native American Heritage Month?

It is a month to celebrate Native cultures and to learn about the complex histories and the ongoing presence of Native communities across the country. It recognizes the contributions of Native people to government, education, economics, art, science, literature and more.

A Brief History

• Early 1900s: Advocates began campaigning for a day to recognize the first Americans, and several states held "American Indian Day" observances.
• 1990: President George H.W. Bush approved a joint resolution designating November 1990 as "National American Indian Heritage Month."
• Since then: Presidents have issued annual proclamations or messages, and the name has changed over time to include "Native American" and "Alaska Native."
• 2009: Congress passed Public Law 111-33, which encourages observance of Native American Heritage Day on the Friday after Thanksgiving. It is not a federal holiday, though some states, including Washington, recognize it.

As of late October 2026, no 2026 presidential proclamation or message had been announced. Check whitehouse.gov for updates.

Understanding the Terms

People use different words, including Native American, American Indian, Alaska Native, Indigenous and tribal names. Many people prefer to be identified by their specific nation, such as Navajo, Cherokee or Lakota. When you can, use the name a person or community uses for itself.

Federally Recognized Tribes

The United States has more than 570 federally recognized tribes, and each is a sovereign government with the right to self-governance. For example, Michigan is home to 12 federally recognized tribal nations, according to the governor's 2026 proclamation.

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Events and Programs in November 2026

• Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian (Washington, D.C. and online): Programs include Native American Heritage Day events, a veterans-focused program around Veterans Day, and online teach-ins from Native Knowledge 360°.
• PBS: Programming includes Pati Jinich Explores Panamericana, plus streaming of Native America, and episodes of Finding Your Roots, Independent Lens, NOVA and POV. PBS Kids features Molly of Denali and other programs.
• Museum of Science, Boston: A free, family-friendly Native American Heritage Month Celebration on Saturday, November 14, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with Indigenous scientists, educators and knowledge-keepers.
• Universities and local libraries: Many campuses and cities hold exhibits, readings, workshops and proclamation ceremonies. Check your local calendar.

Ways to Celebrate and Learn Respectfully

1. Learn whose land you live on. Look up the Native nations of your area.
2. Read Native authors. Good starting points include There There by Tommy Orange, Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer, The Round House by Louise Erdrich, and An Indigenous Peoples' History of the United States by Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz.
3. Watch and listen to Native filmmakers, musicians and storytellers.
4. Support Native-owned businesses and artists, and buy directly from them.
5. Visit tribal museums and cultural centers, and attend events open to the public.
6. Donate to Native-led organizations, such as the National Congress of American Indians, the Native American Rights Fund or the American Indian College Fund.
7. Keep learning all year, not only in November.

What to Avoid

• Don't treat Native cultures as costumes or the past. Native people are living, modern communities.
• Avoid stereotypes and generic "Indian" imagery. Learn about the specific nation you're discussing.
• Use sources created by Native people when you can.

Sources and Further Reading

• National Native American Heritage Month
• Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian
• PBS: Native American Heritage Month 2026
• Museum of Science: Native American Heritage Month Celebration
• Michigan: November 2026 proclamation
• GW Today: Native American Heritage Month 2026
• Native American Heritage Day 2026 (Fresh Calendars)
• National Park Service: Native American Heritage Month

FAQ

When is Native American Heritage Month 2026? November 1 to 30, 2026.

What is the 2026 theme? Generations of Wisdom: A Living Legacy, per the National Native American Heritage Month website.

When is Native American Heritage Day 2026? Friday, November 27, 2026.

Is Native American Heritage Day a federal holiday? No. A 2009 law encourages observance, but it isn't on the federal holiday list.

Why is it in November? It was designated as a month in 1990, and November has long been associated with these observances.

Last updated: November 1, 2026. Events and themes can change, so check official sources.