Join the San Pasqual Band of Mission Indians as they host Indigenous Peoples’ Day for the community at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. All are welcome to this joyous celebration of the Kumeyaay people and the Indigenous community, their commitment to wildlife, and their culture.
October 9, 2023
Indigenous Peoples' Celebration
Schedule of Events
Blessing Ceremony
- 10 a.m.
- Benbough Amphitheater
Opening remarks from tribal elders, prayer songs, and special guests gather to bless and begin this special event.
Telling of the Creation Story
- 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
- Mawazo Restaurant
With an audience Q & A to follow.
Indigenous Artisans Exhibition
- 11 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
- Nairobi Village Walkway
Environmental Wellness Ambassadors
- 11 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
- Mombasa Pavilion
Traditional and educational activities for the whole family.
Bird Singing Groups
- Between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
- Benbough Amphitheater
Paul Cannon, Singer/Songwriter
- 11 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
- The Barking Deer
Conservation Science Talks
- Varying times between 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Discover the incredible species that call the Southwest home. Our teams of experts will share how we're saving wildlife, and how allies like you can help.
Culinary Offerings
- 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
- Throughout the Safari Park
Specialty menu offerings will be available throughout the Park.
Trail Trek
- Ages 6 & up
- Free; limited capacity -- reservations required.*
- 11 a.m.
- Map Marker #19 at Condor Ridge
Celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day at the Safari Park, and join us for a 1.2-mile hiking adventure connecting the stories of the Kumeyaay people with San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s Southwest conservation hub. Explore Condor Ridge and the World Gardens, and venture into the Safari Park Biodiversity Reserve, a 900-acre protected natural habitat that is home to over 200 native species. Members of the San Pasqual Band will share stories of the original stewards of the San Pasqual Valley. Learn about our work with conservation partners to conserve native wildlife, including burrowing owls, desert tortoises, California condors, and the coastal sage scrub ecosystem.
*This hike is free. Space is limited; reservations are required by calling 619-718-3000. Ages 6 and older.
This 1.2 mile hiking adventure lasts about 2 hours and is of moderate difficulty. The first half of the hike is uphill, the second half is downhill. A restroom stop is available about 20 minutes into the hike; there are no other restroom stops along the route. There will be stops for water and snacks (provided) at the one-quarter and halfway points, and at the conclusion of the hike. Please wear comfortable walking shoes!
Closing Ceremony
- 4 p.m.
- Benbough Amphitheater
Learn More
San Pasqual Band of Mission Indians
Learn more about the San Pasqual Band’s history, culture, and thriving community.
Southwest Conservation Hub
Efforts to protect wildlife, ecosystems, and people are stronger when we honor the knowledge and expertise of those in our community, including Indigenous peoples.
