On Friday, October 3, 2025, the Colorado River Indian Tribes kicked off Native American Days with a lively celebration at Manataba Park under the tin shed, bringing together community members, families, and visitors for a day full of culture, food, games, and laughter.
The event opened with Tribal Council presentations, led by Councilwoman Raeanne Patch, Councilman Billy Beeson, Councilman Tommy Drennan, and Treasurer Anisa Patch. Their presence set the tone for a meaningful day of honoring culture and community. Following a blessing by Carol Claw Hammond, the crowd gathered for a hearty lunch of pitted meat, tortillas, macaroni salad, and beans. A feast that kept everyone smiling and full throughout the day.
Vendors brought extra flavor to the celebration with NDN Joe, who kept the crowd refreshed with his famous beverages, while Carrie Burns offered custom cups, popcorn, and sweet treats. Terri Lynn’s snow cones and piccadillys were a big hit, especially under the warm afternoon sun. Visitors also enjoyed the Hopi booth, which raffled off beautiful jewelry, and the Chemehuevi booth, which shared crafts to enjoy and make. The Regional Center for Border Health joined in, connecting with the community and offering helpful resources.
Throughout the day, families enjoyed a wide variety of activities. Native language bingo quickly became a favorite, teaching words from the four tribal languages—Mohave, Chemehuevi, Hopi, and Navajo—in a fun and interactive way. Smiles and laughter filled the air as people competed for prizes while learning more about their heritage.
The regalia presentations were a true highlight of the afternoon. Toddlers charmed the crowd in their tiny regalia while older youth and adults showcased beautifully crafted dresses and traditional wear. The pride and joy that radiated from each participant created a powerful reminder of the beauty and strength of tradition.
Raffles kept the excitement going strong. Youth participants went home thrilled with new bicycles, while adults competed for prizes, including a brand-new 50-inch TV that was proudly won by community member Bridget Robledo.
Councilman Tommy Drennan served as the MC for the day, bringing plenty of humor, energy, and excitement to keep the crowd engaged. His presence kept the celebration lively, making sure every event flowed with fun and spirit.
As the sun began to set, the community came together one last time for the much-anticipated Little Miss CRIT Royalty Pageant, capping off a day filled with joy, culture, and connection.
Native American Days once again reminded everyone of the power of coming together as a community. With cooler weather, plenty of good food, and the energy of family and tradition, the celebration was the perfect way to jumpstart the CRIT royalty pageant while honoring the rich culture and heritage of the Tribes.
Article & Photos by CRIT Media Reporter Ariana Romero