The Nansemond Firebird Festival is a unique, curated experience for family, friends, and community members to learn about the history and living culture of the Nansemond Indian Nation. In contrast to our pow wow (held in August), this event has several focused, interactive spaces for children and adults to learn lessons through hands-on participation.
In 2020, we canceled the Nansemond Firebird Festival to protect our community at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This year, we are excited to announce that we will continue the Nansemond Firebird Festival tradition of connecting with our community through a short series of virtual gatherings. Please join us and share with your family and friends!
Click here to download and print the 2021 Virtual Firebird Festival Passport. This document includes comprehension questions, coloring / drawing pages, and more!
| Monday, March 15th 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM | Monday Passport Pages Archaeology “Treasure Box” Presented By Aniella Badamo Algonquian & Nansemond Language Presented by Roderick Daye |
| Wednesday, March 17th 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM | Wednesday Passport Pages Nature’s Bounty: Hunting, Trapping, Tanning Presented By David Hennaman Navigating Nansemond: Environmental Initiatives Presented by Irma Adams Nansemond Cookery & Cooking Demonstration Presented By Loleta Bass |
| Friday, March 19th 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM | Friday Passport Pages Traditional Art: Pottery Presented By Desmond Ellsworth Contemporary Art & Community Presented by Nikki Bass |
In accordance with Governor Northam’s guidance on public gatherings and large events, we made the decision to cancel the 2020 Nansemond Firebird Festival (our school days scheduled for April 8-9 and our public day scheduled for April 11). We value the health of our community above all else and will continue to do whatever we can to protect public health. Though we will not be able to come together at Mattanock as planned, we invite you to follow our Facebook Page for educational posts that will bring some of the spirit of the Nansemond Firebird Festival to you at home. Kenah (Thanks) for all your support.
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