The 2025 First Peoples Festival will feature a First Peoples Fashion Show on Jan. 18 at the Holiday Inn. Designers include Stacey Mitchell of the Akwesasne Tribe; Bitter Water for Redhouse from the Diné community; The Son of Picasso from the Kiowa Tribe; Firefox Designs representing the Hopi and Santa Ana; and Penny Singer from the Diné Tribe.

I’m very much looking forward to the First Peoples Festival, Jan. 17, 18, and 19, including the First Peoples Fashion Show on Jan. 18 which will take place in the ballroom at the Holiday Inn.

This is the second year of the festival, and I hope that it will continue to develop as a premier and important event in Estes Park.

The heritage of America’s Indigenous cultures have great relevance to how we chart our future course, with proper caretaking of, and relationship to, our precious natural resources. The history of the Native American people reminds us that collaboration and cooperation between all cultures is the superior path to our human future.

In regard to the fashion show, they have experienced substantial start-up costs, and I encourage those with the means and interest to consider becoming a sponsor of this event. I’ll see you there!

The First Peoples Fashion Show will debut in Estes Park, Colorado, showcasing a stunning lineup of indigenous designers at the Estes Park Conference Center. Held in conjunction with the Town of Estes Park and the second annual First Peoples Festival, this groundbreaking event celebrates Indigenous culture, creativity, and resilience through fashion.

The runway fashion show will feature six acclaimed Indigenous designers whose work bridges tradition and contemporary artistry:

This extraordinary event offers:

  • Cultural Appreciation and Learning: Gain insights into indigenous cultures and the stories woven into each garment.
  • Support for Indigenous Artists: Celebrate and amplify the voices of Indigenous designers, models, and artisans.
  • Inspiration and Style: Discover unique designs that merge traditional techniques with contemporary aesthetics.
  • Advocacy and Awareness: Learn about issues facing indigenous communities, including cultural preservation and sustainability.
  • Entertainment and Artistry: Experience a visually captivating showcase complemented by music, dance, and storytelling.

The First Peoples Fashion Show will include an opening reception, designer booths, and opportunities to purchase unique designs and jewelry directly from artisans.

Spearheaded by Executive Director Sandi Siegel, a Denver fashion scene veteran and advocate for Indigenous culture, the First Peoples Fashion Show was inspired by her experiences in the Sonoran Desert and the inaugural First Peoples Festival in Estes Park last year.

“This show is a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the rich heritage of indigenous communities. It’s an opportunity to honor their stories while providing a platform for their artistry to shine,” says Siegel.

Join us in the heart of the Rocky Mountains to celebrate the beauty and diversity of Indigenous culture and fashion.

Seating is limited and advance ticket purchase is recommended.

Event Details:

  • Date: January 18, 2025
  • Time: 5:30pm – 10:00pm
  • Location: Estes Park Conference Center (Holiday Inn), Estes Park, Colorado
  • Tickets: click here

For more information, visit the First Peoples Fashion Show.