Traditional Craft Days

Throughout the year we host various days highlighting traditional craft methods used by the Kumeyaay.

Come join us appreciate and celebrate Kumeyaay culture with fun traditional craft activities

that are FREE to the community.

Traditional Craft Days Summer Schedule 2023

Saturday, July 1, 2023- Coiled Clay

Saturday, July 22, 2023- Pottery Painting

Saturday, August 5, 2023- Pendant Weaving

Saturday, April 19, 2023- Games!

Traditional Craft Days Summer Schedule 2023

Coiled Clay

The coiled clay method has been used by the Kumeyaay and other indigenous groups of the Southwest for over 1,000 years. It was very important to the Kumeyaay to successfully make ceramic vessels to carry water in the desert, this contributed to the Kumeyaay’s ability to migrate throughout California and Baja California, Mexico.

  • Saturday, July 1, 2023

  • 10:00am-4:00pm

This event is FREE to all visitors of IVDM, no reservations required.

Pottery Painting

Explore the world of paint and pigments as we invite guests to decorate their own pot creations. Whether you made your pot during our last traditional craft day, last summer, last year, or you want to bring your own homemade pot and give it a new look, all pots are welcome!

  • Saturday, July 22th- Pottery Painting

  • 10:00am-4:00pm

This event is FREE to all visitors of IVDM, no reservations required.

Pendant Weaving

The tradition of basket making in Kumeyaay culture and neighboring indigenous peoples dates back thousands of years in southern California. Like many of the Kumeyaay’s tools, baskets performed a variety of functions. They were used for practical purposes including the gathering, preparing, and food storage. Depending on the baskets’ use and design, they could take months or even years to complete.

IVDM highlights the pendant in celebration of the Kumeyaay and other indigenous groups, recognizing their skill in this time-honored tradition. One of the more difficult crafts, pendant weaving requires patience and attention to detail. Be sure to come out and visit to learn more about the history of this beautiful practice.

  • When: Saturday, August 5, 2023

  • 10:00am-4:00pm

This event is FREE to all visitors of IVDM, no reservations required.

Games

Put your skills to the test as IVDM hosts a variety of games reflecting the heritage of the region's many indigenous peoples. Bring your friends and family out for a day of skill, luck, collaboration, and friendly competition!

  • Saturday, August 19, 2023

  • 10:00am-4:00pm

This event is FREE to all visitors of IVDM, no reservations required.