Blue Corn Festival

Arizona Humanities (AH) and the NDN Girls Book Club (NGBC) present an annual Blue Corn Festival—a monthlong celebration honoring Indigenous foodways, art, storytelling, and community.

The annual Blue Corn Festival brings together families, creators, educators, and community members for a vibrant, intergenerational experience. Festival features often include:

  • Local cuisine and traditional blue corn–inspired dishes
  • Art displays from Indigenous and local artists
  • Poetry readings, storytelling, and live musical performances
  • Family-friendly activities for all ages
  • Free books for children and families written by Indigenous authors, provided through our partnership with NGBC


Why Blue Corn?


Honoring History and Foodways

At the heart of the festival is the significance of blue corn, a crop deeply rooted in the history and lifeways of Indigenous peoples across the Southwest. For generations, communities including the Navajo, Hopi, and Apache have cultivated this drought-tolerant food and incorporated it into ceremony, cuisine, and cultural identity. Today, blue corn remains an essential bridge between the past and present, carrying forward stories of resilience, tradition, and innovation.

Our Mission

The Blue Corn Festival uplifts Indigenous voices while fostering new conversations about food sovereignty, cultural continuity, and shared heritage. By celebrating blue corn and its enduring importance, the festival inspires hope for the future and strengthens connections between generations within Arizona’s Native communities.

Join us as we honor tradition, celebrate creativity, and build community—one story, one meal, and one shared experience at a time. 

By the People: Conversations Beyond 250 is a series of community-driven programs created by humanities councils in collaboration with local partners. The initiative was developed by the Federation of State Humanities Councils and the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage.



What the Community Says About Blue Corn Festival

"I loved how intimate it felt. There was something for everyone, even the children! I appreciated the programming, refreshments, vendors, and community. It was a beautiful day!"
Shannon K.
Blue Corn Festival Attendee
"Being a cultural event, I was hesitant to attend for the first time. However, the experience was very special—the volunteers, vendors, and presenters were so welcoming that I felt at home and gained a sense of belonging. I truly look forward to attending this event. And the complementary food items were much appreciated by the families with children."
Arcelia L.
Blue Corn Festival Attendee
"What I like most is engaging with the community, vendors, and authors who were there at the time. I'm always looking for something impactful to do. I had a wonderful time at the event."
Michelle H.
Blue Corn Festival Attendee


Interested in becoming a sponsor? Please take a look at our sponsorship packet.

Questions? Please reach out to our Program Manager, Amber McCrary. Your support makes the annual continuation of this festival possible. 

Explore Our Programs