Haskell Indian Art Market: Celebrating Heritage and What’s Ahead
For nearly 40 years, the Haskell Indian Art Market has brought Native artists, community members, and visitors together on Haskell’s campus. This year, more than 130 exhibitors are expected to participate, boasting traditional foods, beadwork, clothing, and more, and expecting approximately 30,000 visitors from the Lawrence area and beyond. The annual event is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026.
While the event is a supportive environment for Native American artists to share their art, it’s also an opportunity for cross-cultural understanding and exchange. Additionally, the market provides Haskell with a chance to showcase students and staff, as they work the event as exhibitors, dancers, and help keep the market running smoothly as they welcome community members to campus.
The market began in 1987 as part of the Lawrence Indian Art Show before branching off to become an independent, Haskell-led event. Over the years, it has grown into an annual fall tradition that connects Haskell and the Lawrence community with Native artists from across the country. The event provides visitors with a unique window into experiencing Native art and culture while learning more about Haskell and the students who call it home.
The market’s impact extends beyond the weekend itself. By working the market, clubs are able to raise funds that will support them throughout the academic year, such as conference travel, workshops, and more, while actively giving back to their community.
The event has also received recognition outside of Haskell. In 2018, the Haskell Indian Art Market was included in Kansas Tourism’s “Top 10 Native American Experiences” list.
This year’s market will feature Native art and jewelry, artist demonstrations, and live entertainment. Both days of the market will take place at Haskell’s Powwow Grounds, 2535 West Perimeter Road on campus. This is an outdoor event held in a grassy area.
This event is free and open to the public. Service animals are welcome, but other pets are not permitted. This is a drug and alcohol-free event.
The artist list will not be released until the week of the market, as applications are still being accepted. Vendors can email hiam785@yahoo.com for more information.
As the market returns to campus, it will also mark the beginning of a busy stretch of events at Haskell, with food sovereignty events, Haskell Founding Day, and Haskell’s Stadium and Arch Centennial Homecoming Celebration, taking place the following week.
