FAM is FAB(ulous) when it comes to learning more about Oklahoma’s tribes

A little more than six months have passed since the First Americans Museum first opened its doors to the general public, and already the museum is experiencing a steady stream of visitors each week as more and more people hear about FAM with its Smithsonian-quality exhibits and other unique and inspirational displays and attractions that are often described with words such as powerful, informative and beautiful.

The FAM, which is located along the Oklahoma River’s south shore near the intersection of interstates 35 and 40, shares the cultural diversity, history and contributions of the First Americans by using interactive exhibitions to tell the stories of the 39 tribal nations that call Oklahoma home today. The FAM also uses its 175,000-square-feet of space to showcase authentic artifacts and provide indigenous-inspired cuisine through its café and full-service restaurant. There is also the FAMstore gift shop where visitors can purchase unique items and souvenirs to take back home to their friends or family. Also, you might want to get a closer look outside at the iconic FAM Mound, a 1,000-foot wide, 90-feet tall earthen mound, a tribute to the mound-builder civilizations.

As the number of visitors to the museum increases, so do the number of hands-on, interactive programs, camps, workshops and other events the museum offers to its members and guests. If you would like to learn some of the basics of song, dance and cultural protocols at powwows and other gatherings, you may want to consider signing up for Social Gatherings 101 from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, April 9.

On April 14, FAM has scheduled Trivia Night, an afterhours event that pits teams of six individuals 21 years of age or older against each other to see who can answer the most questions about First American arts, culture, politics, science and more. The winning team earns a $300 gift card to the FAMstore.

For those who want to stretch their bodies more than their minds, FAM is offering a pickup stickball game for all age groups on Saturday, May 14, outside near the Festival Plaza. Take advantage of a unique opportunity to learn about and play a traditional game beloved by tribes across Oklahoma. Just show up with some sturdy shoes and a stick. If you do not own a stick, no worries! Someone will lend you one.

Even though the spring season has essentially just started, summer will be here in short order, and the FAM staff has already started developing summer programming for the kiddos. Between June 6 and July 29 (except for the week of July 4), weeklong FAMcamps will be offered for youth entering kindergarten through eighth grade. They can enjoy various learning experiences in a uniquely Indigenous-centered environment in sessions like Stickball 101, Exploring Color, Just Dance!, Beading Bonanza NS Health Protectors.

FAM is open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the weekends. The museum is closed Tuesdays. For more details on FAM admission prices and all of the various activities going on now or in the future, visit the museum website at famok.org or call 405-594-2100.