History and Heritage: Native American Heritage Month 2026

Honor and celebrate Indigenous culture this November, and throughout the year, with live music, dance presentations, cooking demonstrations and craft programs at San Mateo County Libraries!

Native Boogie & Beats With Manny Lieras 

Native Boogie & Beats is a dynamic Indigenous cultural presentation that brings the energy, beauty, and traditions of the Pow Wow to communities throughout the Bay Area. Through vibrant dance, music, storytelling and cultural education, Native Boogie & Beats invites audiences of all ages to experience and learn about contemporary Native American culture directly from Native community members.

Native American Drumming and Dance 

Feel the rhythm of the drums and take in the beauty of the dances at a Native American drumming and dance presentation! Together, we'll learn about the different styles of dance, including the history of the dances and the making of their traditional clothing.

An Afternoon With Cafe Ohlone: Cooking Demonstration

Enjoy an afternoon of cooking with Cafe Ohlone co-founders Vincent Medina and Louis Trevino. Hear about Ohlone culture past and present and observe a chia porridge cooking demonstration. While the chia porridge preparation will be demonstrated only, alternative refreshments prepared by Cafe Ohlone will be limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Cheyenne and Mexica Shields

Create your own shield, or Chimalli, while learning about the Native American tribe of the Cheyenne and the Mexica indigenous people of Mexico. With traditional designs inspired by these cultures, participants will create their shields using cardboard and feathers, a template with designs, or create their own patterns.

Zuni Water Jar Drawing 

Create your own Zuni water jar drawing while learning about the ancient Zuni tribe from Northwestern New Mexico. 

Recommended Reads for Native American Heritage Month

Check out these great stories featuring Native voices at your library today—or view our full list of recommendations for kids, teens and adults.

Bad Cree

A Snake Falls to Earth

The Used-to-be Best Friend