When the 23rd annual Red Earth Native American Cultural Festival opens at the Cox Convention Center Friday June 5, 2009 in downtown Oklahoma City, OK, more than 1200 American Indian artists and dancers from throughout North America will gather to celebrate the richness and diversity of their heritage with the world. For three exciting days Oklahoma City will be at the center of Native American art and culture in America.

Through the years Red Earth has matured into one of the most respected visual and performing arts event of its type – setting the standard for many of today’s Indian art shows held throughout the nation. At Red Earth, guests can sample the work of some of the nation’s most celebrated artists, with opportunities to purchase contemporary and traditional examples of beadwork, basketry, jewelry, pottery, sculpture, paintings, graphics and cultural attire during the juried art show and market.

The dance competition at Red Earth is one of the rare occasions when dancers from America’s Northern and Southern tribes can be seen together in one venue. Red Earth dancers represent the elite of Native American dance, some of the most gifted and accomplished in the world. The masters, each in their own distinctive tribal dress, exhibit their originality and skills in one of the most prestigious of all native dance competitions.

A grand parade, unlike any other parade in the world, opens the 2009 Red Earth Festival on Friday morning. The streets of downtown Oklahoma City will vibrate in Native American tribal spirit as representatives of more than 100 tribes, in full tribal regalia, make the Red Earth Parade one of America’s most unique.

The Red Earth Art Market opens Friday, June5 at 11 am and the first Grand Entry of
dance competitors begins at noon inside the Cox Convention Center Arena. Grand Entries are scheduled at noon and 7 pm Friday and Saturday, and at noon on Sunday. The Red Earth Run, a 5k run and 2 mile fun walk, scheduled at 8 am Saturday June6 on Regatta Park River Trails along the Oklahoma River in downtown Oklahoma City, is open to runners and walkers of all ages and abilities.

Tickets can be purchased at online at www.ticketmaster.com. For additional information contact Red Earth, Inc at (405) 427-5228. Red Earth is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization.