GOSHEN, Ind. — Goshen’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day Celebration will join First Fridays’ “Harvest” Festival for the first time on Friday, Oct. 3. The partnership will bring music, dance, and cultural presentations to Ignition Garage from 6 to 8 p.m., honoring the Potawatomi and Miami people.
The City of Goshen’s Community Relations Commission sponsors the event. Activities will take place both inside and outside Ignition Garage, 120 E. Washington St. The event is free and open to the public.
Music, Dance, and Cultural Sharing
In cooperation with the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi, the Iron Bear Singers will perform pow wow drum songs and dances. Sterling BigBear III, Ponca/Ihankotonwan, serves as keeper of the drum.
The drum honors BigBear’s grandfather. Singers represent many nations within the Chicago Treaty territory. They perform across Turtle Island, carrying blessings that connect communities.
Inside Ignition Garage, Madalene BigBear will present as the evening’s featured speaker. She is a citizen of the Pokagon Band of the Potawatomi Indians. Through her stories and perspective, attendees will learn how Bodwéwadmi traditions are being carried forward today. BigBear’s work creates welcoming spaces in the community and builds connections that strengthen identity while encouraging greater understanding.
Mayor Gina Leichty will also welcome guests, acknowledging the significant contributions of the Potawatomi and Miami peoples in shaping the history of our region.
As a community, this is our opportunity to pause and acknowledge the rich history and ongoing contributions of Indigenous peoples, whose traditions remain an integral part of our region and our nation. The program offers something special: music passed down through generations, stories rooted in heritage, and opportunities to reflect together on how the past, present, and future are interconnected.
Goshen will observe the official Indigenous Peoples’ Day on Monday, Oct. 13 (all city offices will be closed), but chose to align this year’s Celebration event with First Fridays to expand its exposure and dialogue.
Indigenous Peoples’ Day Celebration At a Glance
- Date/Time: Friday, Oct. 3, 6–8 p.m.
- Location: Ignition Garage, 120 E. Washington St., Goshen (inside and outside)
- Partnership: Goshen First Fridays “Harvest” Festival
- Presented by: City of Goshen’s Community Relations Commission
Learning Beyond the Stage
Information tables will provide opportunities for continued learning and conversation.
- The Goshen Public Library will share Indigenous resources and recommended reading.
- The Goshen Historical Society will highlight local history and preservation efforts connected to Native communities.
- Goshen College’s One Circle, a student-led group, will showcase its work addressing injustices toward Indigenous people.
- The Community Relations Commission will provide information about its mission to promote equality, dialogue, and inclusion throughout the city.