Preparations are underway for the 34th annual Litchfield Park Gathering, a two-day event celebrating indigenous arts and cultures on January 10 and 11, 2026. This free public event, taking place from 10 am to 5 pm daily, invites festival-goers to engage with over a hundred Native American artists showcasing their work in the central streets of Litchfield Park. According to the City of Litchfield Park, attendees can look forward to an eclectic mix of beadwork, jewelry, pottery, and more, reflecting both traditional and contemporary indigenous art forms.
Artists participating in the Gathering, such as Larry Ashkie, Bob Lansing, Daniel Ramirez, and Virgil J. Nez, who have pieces exhibited in museum and gallery collections, eagerly anticipate the annual festival as an occasion to reunite with peers and present their works to new and established collectors. The festival, known for its broad spectrum of Native American creativity, actively fights against the stereotyping of indigenous art, featuring both traditional and contemporary styles. Live artist demonstrations will offer festival attendees a chance not only to observe the creative process but also to engage with artists on a personal level.
Those venturing to Litchfield Park will not only witness visual arts but will also be treated to an array of performances, including dancing and storytelling on the main stage and in the Cultural Education Area, allowing audience members direct engagement with the performers. As detailed by the festival's announcement, the lineup boasts world champion hoop dancers Tony Duncan and Moontee Sinquah as well as classical guitarist Gabriel Ayala. Providing activities for younger audiences, Violet Duncan will conduct daily hoop dancing workshops for children in a specially dedicated area.
Food connoisseurs will have the chance to indulge in Native American cuisine while navigating the festival. The Litchfield Park Gathering also hosts a juried art competition, taking place this year at the Wigwam Resort on January 9. Here, an expert panel will evaluate the work of accepted artists, earning the winning pieces a special spotlight – and a fast track to being sought-after commodities among the festival's attendees.
For further details concerning the Gathering, including artist applications, interested parties are directed to reach out to the City of Litchfield Park’s Special Events Department at 623-935-9040 or via email at [email protected]. The event is partly funded by the Arizona Commission on the Arts, the National Endowment for the Arts, and Arizona tourism dollars.
