Published April 25, 2023
Social dancing is a time-honored tradition for the Choctaw people. It brings our community together, and because everyone is welcome, it helps us meet new friends. The dances of our ancestors often reflected the movements and cycles of nature. The garfish dance mirrors the mating rituals of the gar, a fish native to the Choctaw homelands and Southeastern Oklahoma.
The Choctaw Cultural Center is dedicated to exploring, preserving, and showcasing the culture and history of the Choctaw people. The exhibits are immersive and told from the Choctaw perspective – honoring the physical and spiritual journey of the Choctaw people, the “Chahta Nvwat Aya.” Located in Durant, Oklahoma, the Choctaw Cultural Center includes over 100,000 square feet of rich, living exhibitions, a vast Living Village, classrooms, a theater, café and retail that combined, bring the Chahta spirit of faith, family and culture to life!
The Choctaw Nation is the third-largest Indian Nation in the United States with more than 208,000 tribal members and 11,000-plus associates. This ancient people has an oral tradition dating back over 13,000 years. The first tribe over the Trail of Tears, its historic reservation boundaries are in the southeast corner of Oklahoma, covering 10,923 square miles. The Choctaw Nation's vision, "Living out the Chahta Spirit of faith, family and culture," is evident as it continues to focus on providing opportunities for growth and prosperity. For more information about the Choctaw Nation, its culture, heritage and traditions, please go to choctawnation.com.
Contact Kristina Humenesky for any media relations needs at [email protected].
The Choctaw Cultural Center is conveniently located off Highway 75 in Calera, Oklahoma. In the immediate vicinity, guests will also find the Choctaw Nation’s Headquarters, dining and entertainment options and Travel Plazas.