Annual Events
🪶 Annual Pow Wow • October 16 and 17, 2026
Honoring tradition and community
Each October, Friends of the Ute Indian Museum proudly participates in the Museum's annual Powwow by operating a concession booth. Every purchase of popcorn or a cold drink helps support the Museum while allowing Friends to connect with visitors from across the region during this vibrant cultural celebration.
The 3rd Annual Uncompahgre Pow Wow in Montrose, Colorado, takes place on October 16 and 17, 2026, at the Montrose County Event Center located at 1036 N 7th Street, Montrose, C0. Co-hosted by the Ute Indian Museum and the Western Slope Native American Resource Center, the event features traditional song, dance, and regalia competitions.
🧶 San Juan Weavers • November 21, 2026
Celebrating the native weaving traditions and weavers
Please join us at the annual San Juan Weavers Guild Show and Sale on the Saturday before Thanksgiving. This year, it will happen on November 21, 2026. The event is held at the Ute Indian Museum, 17253 Chipeta Road
Montrose, CO 81403. Plan to visit the museum and the weavers event for a memorable day. Mark your calendars and join us!
https://sanjuanweavers.org/elementor-3277/
History and background of the San Juan Weavers Guild
In 1977, nine fledgling weavers met in Montrose to organize a weavers’ guild. Their purpose became to exchange ideas and knowledge of weaving and spinning, give demonstrations to community organizations, and find ways of selling their handwoven items. The membership grew to 23 members that first year. Today the Guild has over 70 members, who demonstrate weaving and spinning, gather for workshops every year to add to their repertoire of skills, and offer over 1000 items for sale at our annual Show and Sale.
🪶 Native American Heritage Month • November 2026
Celebrating history, culture, and enduring presence of the Ute peoples
The Ute Indian Museum, 17253 Chipeta Road Montrose, CO 81403, honors Native American Heritage Month every November through permanent and special exhibitions celebrating the history, culture, and enduring presence of the Ute peoples. Visit the Ethnobotany Garden and explores traditional plant knowledge, uses, and deep connections to the local land. Plan time for the Naturescape Playground, an outdoor community space for family engagement.
🎁 Holiday Arts Festival and Crafts • December 5, 2026
Festive Local Holiday Shopping
The Ute Indian Museum Holiday Arts & Crafts Festival is held at 17253 Chipeta Road, Montrose, CO 81403. The Festival features local shopping, holiday gifts, and crafts from Native American and area artists. Please come and enjoy fresh fry bread, a silent auction to support the museum, and browsing the museum's gift shop. Free admission to both the holiday event and the museum itself, with no tickets or reservations required.
🌿 Community Day • Signature Event • June 2027
Celebrating culture, history, and community
Each spring, the Ute Indian Museum welcomes the community for a day of hands-on activities, demonstrations, and family-friendly experiences. Friends of the Ute Indian Museum volunteers help welcome guests, assist with activities, and support the Museum staff to make this annual celebration a success.
🎨 Annual Chipeta Art Show • June 2027
Art that gives back
The annual Chipeta Art Show features original artwork by Friends member artists inspired by the landscapes, history, and cultures of the American West. Best of all, 20% of every artwork sold is donated to Friends of the Ute Indian Museum, directly supporting Museum programs, exhibits, and special projects.
❤️ Become Part of the Tradition
The Friends of the Ute Indian Museum is powered by volunteers, members, donors, and community supporters. Whether you attend an event, purchase artwork, volunteer your time, or become a member, your support helps preserve and share the history, culture, and traditions of the Ute people for future generations.
We invite you to join us—we are making a lasting difference together.