Mni Sota Akitho Festival

Overview

MNI SOTA AKITHO FESTIVAL

The Mni Sota Akitho Festival is bringing a groundbreaking cultural celebration to the Twin Cities this March. Taking place from March 14–16, 2025, at the InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront, this immersive event will honor the artistry, resilience, and cultural heritage of Indigenous communities through tattooing, music, crafts, and storytelling.

Hosted by Iktomi Tattoo, an Indigenous-owned studio based in South Minneapolis, the festival will serve as a vibrant platform for cultural expression and unity, offering attendees an unparalleled opportunity to experience the richness of Indigenous culture while supporting economic empowerment and education.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE FESTIVAL

> Indigenous Tattooing: A Global Gathering

Renowned Indigenous tattoo artists from across the world will gather to showcase traditional techniques and styles. Guests can witness live tattooing sessions and even schedule appointments for tattoos by these talented artists. Exhibits will explore the historical and cultural significance of Indigenous tattooing traditions.

> Vendor Marketplace & Culinary Delights

With over 45 booths, the Vendor Marketplace will feature handmade goods, artwork, traditional herbs, and other unique items crafted by Indigenous-owned businesses. Attendees can also savor traditional and modern Indigenous cuisine from local food vendors, including innovative non-alcoholic beverages like mocktails and CBC- and cannabis-based drinks.

>Workshops, Performances, and Panels

From interactive craft workshops to live musical performances spanning traditional drumming, rock, and hip-hop, the festival offers a variety of ways to engage with Indigenous creativity. Educational sessions will delve into topics such as tattoo symbolism, cultural resilience, and the intersections of music and activism.

>Cultural Connections

Guests can join elder-led discussions, storytelling sessions, and collaborative art projects like community murals. These experiences foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of Indigenous traditions and their enduring impact.

A UNIQUE VISION FOR UNITY AND CELEBRATION

The Mni Sota Akitho Festival aims to:

*Showcase the beauty and significance of Indigenous arts and culture.

*Empower Indigenous entrepreneurs and artists.

*Foster intercultural and intertribal connections.

*Educate the public on Indigenous heritage and contemporary artistry.

Held in the heart of downtown St. Paul, attendees will enjoy breathtaking views of Ȟaȟáwakpa (the Mississippi River) within the InterContinental Hotel’s expansive 24,000 square feet of event space. This festival promises a one-of-a-kind experience celebrating diversity, community, and culture for anyone interested in learning, connecting and celebrating this first-ever festival of its kind in the Twin Cities.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR PARTNERSHIP

The Mni Sota Akitho Festival invites tribal nations, organizations, and businesses to partner in creating a meaningful cultural impact. Opportunities include sponsorship of event spaces, performances, educational sessions, and art installations, allowing partners to connect directly with attendees while showcasing their unique heritage.

For more information on the festival or partnership opportunities, contact:

Willard Malebear Jr. at (763) 313-3331 or w@willardcustomart.com.

ABOUT THE EVENT ORGANIZER

Iktomi Tattoo, located in South Minneapolis, is a celebrated Indigenous-owned tattoo studio dedicated to preserving and promoting Indigenous artistry and cultural expression.

The public is invited March 14–16, 2025, to celebrate the beauty, creativity, and unity of Indigenous culture at the Mni Sota Akitho Festival.

ABOUT THE PERFORMERS

Stella Standingbear:

Stella Standingbear is a Salt Lake City-born, Pine Ridge-based Lakota musician blending alt-rap, R&B, and pop for a rich sound. She is the first Lakota artist to win two historic awards at the 2023 Indigenous Hip-Hop Awards: Best Female Hip-Hop Artist and Music Video of the Year for her debut single “Home Runs.” Stella has shared the stage with respected artists like Kirko Bangz, Montana of 300, Futuristic, KYLE, and Bizzy Bone. She has received co-signs from industry titans such as Queen Latifah, Waka Flocka Flame, Paul Wall, and more. Stella released the five-song EP Bear Spirit in December 2024.

For more information about Stella Standingbear: https://www.stellastandingbear...

Instagram @stellastandingbear // Tiktok @stellastandingbear // YouTube @stellastandingbear

Supaman:

Christian Takes Gun Parrish is Supaman, a member of the Apsáalooke Nation, a dancer, and an innovative hip-hop artist. He has dedicated his life to empowering others by spreading messages of hope, pride, and resilience through his original art forms. Supaman combines Native culture, comedy, and contemporary hip-hop culture, dazzling audiences and captivating listeners. He has been well recognized for his art, having received the 2017 MTV VMA Award for “Best Fight Against The System,” a Native American Music Award (Nammy), a North American Indigenous Award, seven Tunney Awards, and an Aboriginal Peoples Choice Music Award. Supaman released his fifth album, The Dream, in December 2024.

For more information about Supaman: https://www.supamanhiphop.net/

Instagram @supamanhiphop // Facebook @supamanhiphop // YouTube @greasyface