Oka Kapassa Festival Promoted by Northwest Alabama RC&D

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but imagine the chance to experience a Native American encampment, a working blowgun, a flintnapper, traditional dancing, music from a hand-made wooden flute, and much more!

Participants were able to do just that in September 2007 in Tuscumbia, Alabama, at the Oka Kapassa Festival. Over 1,500 students from surrounding counties attended the Friday session that was focused on cultural exchange for elementary students. The Saturday session was open to the general public. An estimated 5,000 people attended the two-day festival.

The Festival is a positive event and I am thankful for the dedication of the Planning Committee and the amazing community volunteer support. The quality of the exhibits and performers was a sight to behold.

Bill Taylor, Northwest AL RC&D Board Member, said the Council was proud to show support for the event and appreciated public’s participation. The Council increased funding in 2007 to show support to the growth and success of the Festival.

"Volunteers mark the calendar well in advance to give their time and talents to the Festival," noted Larry Gullet, Planning Committee Member. One volunteer drives from Maryland each year and is one of the first to arrive and the last to leave. Larry also noted that the conversations of the children in attendance and the smiles on their faces are "payment in full."

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