Indigenous People’s Heritage Month for Kids

November is Indigenous People’s Heritage Month. Families can recognize the month through various events and activities that reflect on the cultures, traditions, and history of the Bay Area’s first peoples. For parents and teachers, here is a helpful resource to fill in any knowledge gaps and start conversations with kids.

Indigenous People’s Heritage Month Events in the East Bay

Indigenous People’s Heritage Month Activities for Families

There are many ways to recognize Indigenous People’s Heritage Month. We’re highlighting a few ideas:

Read a book or listen to a podcast. This free resource includes several books, podcasts, movies, and activities to introduce to your family to learn more about indigenous communities.

Look for a visual land acknowledgment at the corner of Bonar St. and University Ave in Berkeley. The beautiful mural may serve as an opening to begin conversations within your family.

View indigenous art. San Francisco’s de Young Museum has a wide collection of Native American art on display from the diverse cultures and native peoples of The United States and Canada. The museum offers free admission to Bay Area residents every Saturday.

Learn about Tending Native Lands. At the Oakland Museum of California, the immersive exhibition Good Fire: Tending Native Lands explores how Native communities in Northern California have used controlled fire—also known as “good fire” or “cultural burning”—for thousands of years to care for the land, preserve ecosystems, and sustain cultural traditions.

Visit a cultural center or museum. Families can learn about tribal lands and peoples throughout the state during a visit to cultural centers, events, and lands. Find lists here and here.

Dine at an indigenous restaurant. Dine at an Indigenous restaurant! Plan a date night or bring well-behaved kids to Wahpepah’s Kitchen, an Oakland restaurant that celebrates Indigenous food, culture, and community. On your next visit to The Lawrence Hall of Science, enjoy Ohlone-inspired snacks, meals, and beverages at ‘ammatka Cafe, opening November 22, 2025.

Shop indigenous artisans and businesses. The Indigenous Red Market in Oakland is a great place to start. Browse goods from artisans and vendors, plus enjoy the cultural performances of musicians and dancers. The market takes place on the first Sunday of each month.