It’s been 16 years ago since Tamástslikt Cultural Institute opened its doors to share the culture, traditions, history, and vision of the Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla Tribes. Using state-of-the-art exhibits and interactive displays, local, regional, and national history is interpreted through the voices, collective memories, objects, and images of their people.
When Tamástslikt opened in 1998 it was the only tribally-owned interpretive center on the National Historic Oregon Trail and it still is. Today, it is also a nationally-certified Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail interpretive site. More than a half million guests have visited the Institute which is wholly owned and operated by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation.
Over the years, Tamástslikt has expanded the range and caliber of exhibits in the changing gallery, increased the public programming and outreach activities, continued to enhance and build upon the permanent exhibits, and constructed a unique cultural experience in Naami Nisháycht, the Living Cultural Village.
This August, a full slate of activities is planned for the entire month and the public is invited to join the celebration. Every Friday features free admission for everyone, demonstrations and hands-on activities for the whole family take place every Saturday, and an exciting new exhibit opens.
Family Day on Aug. 2, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., includes kids’ crafts, face painting, kids’ activities in the exhibits, storytelling, and more.
On Aug. 9 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Culture Day showcases drumming and singing, Village demonstrations, kids’ stick games, and Tribal members in the permanent exhibits to share their personal perspective.
Shoppers can take advantage of deep discounts and free Pepsi giveaways at the Sidewalk Sale scheduled for Aug. 16.
“National Geographic: Greatest Photographs of the American West” opens on Aug. 22 featuring iconic, rare and never-seen-before photographs that chronicle the epic history and grandeur of the region.
Guests will enjoy complimentary birthday cake all day on Aug. 23 and kids, up to age 12, can participate in the free Kidz Pow Wow on August 30 starting at 1 p.m.
For a full calendar of dates and times, visit the Tamástslikt website.
