By Miiskogihmiiwan P.C.
Indigenous Roots Cultural Arts Center in St. Paul will be filled with music, storytelling, and community this weekend with two special events celebrating Indigenous creativity.
Rock the Rez returns to the Twin Cities for its 2026 tour, hosting its second summer camp in the area from July 27–31 at Indigenous Roots. The weeklong youth program empowers Indigenous girls, Two Spirit, transgender, and LGBTQ+ youth through music education, culture, performance, social justice workshops, and leadership development.
Through creative collaboration and mentorship, youth participants build confidence, explore their voices, and create original music together. The camp will conclude with a showcase performance on Saturday, August 1, where participants will share their work with the community.
Also happening Saturday is the inaugural Story Lodge: An Indigenous Literary & Book Fair hosted by Mashkiki Studios from 11AM-5PM at Indigenous Roots.
The event will bring together Indigenous authors, illustrators, artists, activists, publishers, educators, and storytellers from across Turtle Island. Guests can enjoy featured conversations with Sean Sherman and Kate Nelson, along with discussions on Indigenous storytelling, publishing, visual and literary sovereignty, and a children’s reading circle.
Visitors can explore Native-owned vendors, books, art, jewelry, and literary gifts while participating in hands-on activities including creating posters and bookmarks, making cedar and sage bundles, braiding sweetgrass, seed gifting, and exploring the Story Gardens exhibit.
Both events are free and open to the public at Indigenous Roots Cultural Arts Center, 788 E. 7th Street, St. Paul, MN.
Find more information on social media: @indigeroots, @mashkiki_studios, and @rocktherez.
Join the community in celebrating Indigenous youth, artists, writers, and storytellers who continue to share their voices and creativity.
Sources: Indigenous Roots Cultural Arts Center, Mashkiki Studios, Rock the Rez
