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 Fall 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, September 9, 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, October 7, 2023

  • 10:00am-4:00pm

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

Pendant Weaving

Get your weave on as we celebrate and practice the heritage of the  region's many indigenous peoples with our introduction to traditional basket making: pendant weaving. We'll be joined by our friends from the Pioneers' Museum to learn how the art of weaving has evolved over time!

  • Saturday, November 18, 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, December 2, 2023

  • 10:00am-4:00pm

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