Nansemond Firebird Festival

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!

2021 Virtual Firebird Festival Schedule

Click here to download and print the 2021 Virtual Firebird Festival Passport.
This document includes comprehension questions, coloring / drawing pages, and more!

Each presentation will be hosted on Zoom. Click HERE to join the Zoom Meeting.
You may also connect by telephone by dialing (301) 715-8592 and
entering Meeting ID: 920 8764 3932, Passcode: 091698.

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

2020

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.

2019

Read More About the Inaugural Year Here: Firebird Festival a Success

NFF Flyer 20190309.jpg