Join Us for Nehantic Heritage Day 2026

Experience the Nehantic Homeland

The Nehantic Native Nation and the East Lyme Historical Society invite a select group of community organizations, artists, artisans, educators, historians, and food vendors to participate in Nehantic Heritage Day 2026, taking place on Saturday, October 3, from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at McCook Park in Niantic.

Nehantic Heritage Day is a free community gathering that honors the history, culture, and enduring presence of the Nehantic people and invites visitors to experience the Nehantic homeland through history, art, education, and community connection.

Our theme this year is:

Celebrating the People, the Place, and the Promise of Stewardship

Because this is a relatively small event, we are intentionally seeking a limited number of participants whose work, knowledge, or organization has a meaningful connection to the spirit of the day.

Indigenous Heritage

We welcome Indigenous artists, cultural educators, historians, archaeologists, authors, and others who can help visitors learn about Indigenous history, culture, and living traditions.

Stewards of the Land

We invite local nonprofits and community organizations whose work connects with historic preservation, conservation, environmental education, archaeology, or care for the natural and cultural resources of the Nehantic homeland.

Marketplace

Local artists and artisans are invited to share their work and offer handmade goods that reflect the creativity and character of our region. A limited number of food vendors will also be invited to participate.

This year's featured historical program will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution by highlighting the service of more than twenty-five known Nehantic men during the Revolutionary War. The day will include a ceremonial opening at Wigwam Rock, Native flute, the Stony Creek Fife and Drum Corps, a reading of the names of Nehantic soldiers, and an afternoon presentation by historian and educator Deborah Spears Moorehead.

Families will also be invited to participate in our new Young Stewards Passport, with simple activities located throughout the event encouraging children to explore history, nature, and their connection to the Nehantic homeland.

We hope you will consider joining us and sharing your work, knowledge, or organization with our community.

Interested in participating?

Please complete our participation form by September 1st. Space is limited, and participation will be confirmed by the Nehantic Heritage Day planning committee.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Nehantic Heritage Day 2026
Saturday, October 3 | 10:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
McCook Park, Niantic, Connecticut

Experience the Nehantic Homeland.

Celebrating the People, the Place, and the Promise of Stewardship.