The Sweetest Season : A Gathering of Indigenous Creativity

august 1 – august 2, 2025

Now in its fourth year, The Sweetest Season: A Gathering of Indigenous Creativity returns to the Goodman, in partnership with the Gichigamiin Indigenous Nations Museum.

On August 1 and 2, join us for two days of performances and workshops celebrating Two Spirit artists and community members. Friday features a highly anticipated drag show in the Owen Theatre with multiple drag artists uplifting the artistry, joy and resilience of Indigenous performers across Chicagoland and beyond. The next day, the Alice Center hosts a vibrant, community-centered line-up of workshops, panels, poetry, live music, comedy, artisan vendors and more. Come learn, laugh, connect and celebrate—all are welcome!

INDIGENOUS DRAG SHOW


In the Owen Theatre

Friday, August 1 at 7:30pm

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Join us for the fiercest drag show this side of the Great Lakes! Join a dazzling lineup of Indigenous drag performers, including Chelazon Leroux, Landa Lakes and Buffalo Barbie, as they light up the Goodman Theatre with big looks, bold moves, and nonstop laughs in a night of unapologetic fun and flair.

Tickets are $18 and up

 

Workshops and Panels

The Sweetest Season Social Hour: An Indigenous-Only Curated Space 

Friday, August 1 at 5:30pm
Lab 1

An event hosted by the Gichigamiin Museum and curated by the Indigenous community for fellowship, food and conversation to kick off this year’s festival. Photo: Courtesy of the Gichigamiin Museum.

Reservations are required.

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Walking in Two Worlds

Saturday, August 2 at 11:30am
Lab 1

Join Two-Spirit leader Gary Neumann (Salish) for a discussion on the historical roles and identities of Two-Spirit/Native 2SLGBTQ+ people and how colonization and historical and intergenerational trauma have impacted the Two-Spirit-LGBTQ+ Community. Gary will share knowledge to educate individuals, families, and organizations to understand and support children, adults, elders, and relatives who may identify as Two-Spirit or Native LGBTQ+. Photo: Courtesy of Goodman Theatre.

Reservations are required.

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Art Gallery and Panel with the Center for Native Futures

Saturday, August 2 at 1:00pm
Lab 1

Come meet some of the area’s most talented fine artists and see their work up close. Their work will be on display throughout the day and will include a panel discussion, curated by The Center for Native Futures, which will delve into their process and inspirations. Photo: Courtesy of The Center for Native Futures.

Reservations are required.

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Pottery Workshop with Jennifer Stevens

Saturday, August 2 at 2:30pm
Lab 2

In this workshop, artist Jennifer Stevens will introduce us to a historical overview of Oneida Pottery. We’ll learn the hand-building-coil method, pinch pot, incising and stamping techniques to create designs on our pots. We’ll learn about the history of Native Americans and experience, hands-on, how many tribes created their pottery that was used for survival for 100s of years for cooking and storing food. Photo: Courtesy of Oshkosh Public Museum.

Reservations are required.

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Sip and Paint for Kids with Negwes White

Saturday, August 2 at 3:45pm
Lab 2

Join us for a fun event for kids of all ages and their families to sip on juice and learn to paint some family friendly art, guided by artist Negwes White. Photo: Courtesy of Negwes White.

Reservations are required.

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Sorrel and Songbirds: Music and Poetry

Saturday, August 2 at 4:30pm
Lab 1

Hosted by poet Vince Romero, this special event features readings by acclaimed writers Elise Pacschen, Aaron Golding, and Jim Terry, each sharing their unique perspectives. The night also includes musical performances by Jennifer Stevens, Brandy Berry Benson, Mark Jourdan, William Bucholtz, and Michaela Marchi. Come experience an unforgettable gathering of creativity, music, and storytelling. Photo: Courtesy of Goodman Theatre.

Reservations are required.

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Sassafras and Slugs: Comedy Night

Saturday, August 2 at 7:00pm
Lab 1

Join us for a night of comedy, featuring members of the comedy group, the 1491s, as well as stand up comedians Chelazon Leroux and Damon Howard. Photo: Courtesy of the 1491s.

Reservations are required.

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ABOUT THE GICHIGAMIIN MUSEUM

The Gichigamiin Indigenous Nations Museum, located in Evanston, Illinois, is one of a handful of museums across the country that celebrates the diverse histories, cultures, and present-day contributions of Native communities across the United States and Canada. Since its founding in 1977, the Museum has served as a space to increase the visibility and elevate Native voices through education, awareness, and advocacy.

Learn More