December
Sunday, December 21, 2025
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Zion Spies Lutheran Church
310 Spies Church Rd, Reading, PA 19606
Winter Solstice Gathering & Feast
Saturday, December 27, 2025
10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Boyertown Community Library
Native Book Club: Theory of Water by Leanne B. Simpson
Announcing our brand new Native Book Club series! We’re so excited to bring Native stories by Native authors to readers in Greater Berks County. Our December pick is Theory of Water: Nishnaabe Maps to the Times Ahead by Leanne Betasamosake Simpson.
January
Saturday, January 3, 2026
1:30-3:30 p.m.
310 Spies Church Rd, Reading, PA 19606
Land Stewardship through Basket Making
Workshop attendees will be guided through techniques for stewardship and relationship building with the land through basket making. Baskets will be made from invasive vines and plants found on the property and woven into practical structures. Participants will learn how to root their artistic practice into a reciprocal relationship with the land and how art making can help control displaced species without chemical intervention. These artistic practices will be rooted in the historical context of the people whose land is now the modern United States, how plants were historically used, and how people can engage with their own ancestral practices respectfully.
Attire: sturdy boots, water, snacks, basket/bag. Optional: work or garden gloves, small garden shears (the handheld ones)
This workshop is intended for ages 13 and up.
$15 suggested donation
Register today!
Monday, January 19, 2026
5:30 pm
Spring Township Library
Native Book Club!
Join us for our next Native Book Club discussion on Monday, January 19th! We’ll be talking about the book 52 Ways to Reconcile: How to Walk with Indigenous Peoples on the Path to Healing by David Alexander Robertson. Hope to see you there!
February
Saturday, February 28, 2026
11 a.m.
Wyomissing Public Library
Native Book Club!
Join us for our February Native Book Club at the Wyomissing Public Library on Saturday, February 28th at 11 am. We’ll be discussing the book Black Cherokee by Antonio Michael Downing in honor of Black History Month. Hope to see you there!
Past Events
October
Wednesday, October 13, 2021
4:30-5:50 p.m.
Academic Forum, Kutztown University
Presentation for KU English Department about Executive Director Amanda Funk’s experience as a contemporary Indigenous woman in Berks County. Complement to Native Women Writers class, sponsored by the English and Women & Gender Studies Departments.
Saturday, October 23, 2021
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
300 block King Street, Pottstown, PA
Week Without Violence Block Event
YWCA Tri-County Area
Join YWCA for the unveiling of an inspiring Street Art Installation, Poetry, Dance, Art Contest, Family Activities, Food & more! Get your free ticket.
November
Wednesday, November 10, 2021
10-10:50 a.m. on Zoom
Office of Veterans Services, Kutztown University
Native American Veterans Program
Sunday, November 21, 2021
10 a.m.
Koinos Community Church
Introduction to local Indigenous peoples of the past and present in addition to regular Sunday worship.
January
**NEW DATE!
Sunday, January 29, 2022
10 a.m. to noon
MLK Day of Service
Downtown Reading
130 W. Buttonwood Street, Reading, PA 19602
Join us for our MLK Day of Service in partnership with the City of Reading Public Works as we clean up the riverfront. All clean up supplies will be provided. We’ll also have snacks, water, and hot chocolate for our volunteers!
February
Tuesday, February 14, 2022
1 p.m.
Story Time
Spring Township Library
Join us for a nature-themed story time at the library.
Thursday, February 17, 2022
11 a.m.
Story Time
West Lawn-Wyomissing Hills Library
Join us for a story time outdoors at the park across the street from the library in West Lawn. Dress for the weather!
Saturday, February 18, 2022
doors open 3 p.m., game starts 4 p.m.
Marvel Night at the Reading Royals
Santander Arena
We are excited to announce that in February we are joining forces with the Reading Royals to be the nonprofit of the game on February 18th, which also happens to be Marvel Night! We hope that you’ll join us for a night of fun and community engagement and support the important work of our organization.
Tuesday, February 22, 2022
10 a.m.
Reading Public Museum
Arboretum Education Lecture
We’ll be talking about wild foods and foraging in the Arboretum for wild greens, roots, and other stuff we can eat. You can check out their corresponding special exhibit, Roots of Wisdom: Native Knowledge. Shared Science. now through April 24, 2022.
March
Friday, March 4, 2022
Commission on Human Diversity 12th Annual Conference
Kutztown University
This year’s theme, “Taking Action with Compassion: Advocacy, Healing and Reform,” responds to the ongoing need for action in the face of injustice while also acknowledging the importance of self-care and connection with others that seem especially critical at this moment.
Wednesday, March 23, 2022
7 p.m. on Zoom
“Take & Make” Craft
West Lawn-Wyomissing Hills Library
Pick up your craft kit in advance at the West Lawn-Wyomissing Hills Library between 3/16-3/23 and join us live on Zoom at 7 p.m. as we learn how to make a medicine bag together.
Thursday, March 31, 2022
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Student Recreation Center
Kutztown University
2022 National Intramural Recreation Sports/ Wellness EXPO
Visit a variety of vendors, focused on the theme “Golden Partners.” Free demonstrations and complimentary refreshments.
April
Friday, April 22, 2022
3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Spring Foraging Walk with Emerging Leaders United (ELU)
United Way of Berks County
2nd & Washington Streets
We’ll share some information about our organization with attendees, including how United Way funding supports our work. Then we’ll take a walk downtown to forage for a snack that we’ll prepare when we return to the building. *For ELU members.
Saturday, April 23, 2022
9 a.m. to noon
Great American Cleanup
Join us as we help cleanup the City of Reading before the Earth Day event.
Saturday, April 23, 2022
noon to 6 p.m.
Reading’s City Park at 11th & Washington Streets
Earth Day Berks County
The annual Berks County Earth Day Celebration is a family friendly event with a dedicated mission to educate the community and increase awareness on sustainability and the environment…. ranging from local to global topics and everything in between!
May
Saturday, May 7, 2022
10 AM – 2 PM, the Walk starts at 11 AM
Humane Pennsylvania Walk for the Animals
Jim Dietrich Park, 4899 Stoudts Ferry Bridge Rd, Reading, PA 19605
Join Humane Pennsylvania for this year’s 45th Annual Performance Toyota Walk for the Animals at Jim Dietrich Park, which is incredibly spacious and beautiful! Enjoy a 1 mile Walk along the river with your pup, family, and friends – all in support of their mission and animals. Stay for the fun as live music, vendors, food trucks, games, and a doggie area that’s sure to please all pups!
Saturday, May 14, 2022
10 am to 3 pm (Rain date: May 21, 2022)
The Camel Project Street Art Festival
Kindness & Creativity
Reading Muhlenberg Career and Technology Center
2615 Warren Rd, Reading, PA 19604 (map)
FREE! Scheduled events at 11 am, Noon, 1 pm and 2 pm include storytime, music, dance, and a special appearance by the Reading Police K-9 unit. Art exhibits and music throughout the day. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets, and enjoy this outdoor family fun day filled with art, interactive activities, music, and food!
June
Saturday, June 11, 2022
9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Gather in the Garden
Buttonwood Community Garden
Buttonwood Street & Division Street (beside Front & Schiller Playground)
Join us at the newly renovated Buttonwood Community Garden and learn more about how you can get involved. You’ll learn about opportunities to volunteer caring for our organization’s garden plots and the option to rent your very own plot! We’ll also be cleaning up the Front & Schiller Playground adjacent to the garden. We’d love to see you! As a bonus, we’ll show you some tasty treats growing wild around the garden area and playground that you can access anytime. Snacks provided!
Saturday, June 11, 2022
12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Black Health Matters Health & Wellness Fair
Berks Lodge #47
247 Walnut Street, Reading, PA 19601
Meet the health providers and wellness resources in our community and learn how to maximize living good health for yourself and your family,
June 18, 2022
12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Juneteenth 2022 Reading PA
Berks Lodge #47
247 Walnut Street, Reading, PA 19601
All are welcome to the Juneteenth 2022 SATURDAY COMMUNITY FAMILY BARBEQUE honoring community leaders and youth. Come for food, vendors, music, Black history, and health resources. Bring your chairs!
Thursday, June 30, 2022
7 p.m.
A Taste of Nature: Canning 101 Series
The Nature Place
575 St. Bernardine Street Reading, PA 19607
Berks Nature is joined by the Widoktadwen Center for Native Knowledge to learn, through practice, the value and satisfaction of food preservation and canning. We will provide all canning supplies including produce grown primarily at The Nature Place. Participants will leave each session with their own canned product and canning recipes.
*PLEASE FEEL FREE TO BRING OWN PRODUCE TO CAN! If you do not have your own some will be provided by Berks Nature.
DATES:
Thursday, June 30th at 7PM: Strawberry Jam
Thursday, July 28th at 7PM: Cucumber Pickles
Thursday, August 25th at 7PM: Tomato Salsa
July
Thursday, July 14, 2022
6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
PRIDE WEEK EVENT: Two Spirit Stories from Indian Country
Berks County Community Foundation
237 Court Street, Reading, PA 19601
Saturday, July 16, 2022
noon-1 p.m.
Native American Genealogy
Village Library of Morgantown
Join us for a dynamic presentation about diving into your roots with our Native American Genealogy program at the Village Library of Morgantown. We’ll be sharing resources and research approaches, and debunking myths about Native American DNA. Guests will have the opportunity to ask questions. Attendees will be entered to win a free DNA kit courtesy of the Village Library!
Sunday, July 17, 2022
11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Reading Pride Celebration
Jim Dietrich Park, 4899 Stoudts Ferry Bridge Rd, Reading, PA 19605
Thursday, July 28, 2022
7 p.m.
A Taste of Nature: Canning 101 Series
The Nature Place
575 St. Bernardine Street Reading, PA 19607
Berks Nature is joined by the Widoktadwen Center for Native Knowledge to learn, through practice, the value and satisfaction of food preservation and canning. We will provide all canning supplies including produce grown primarily at The Nature Place. Participants will leave each session with their own canned product and canning recipes.
*PLEASE FEEL FREE TO BRING OWN PRODUCE TO CAN! If you do not have your own some will be provided by Berks Nature.
DATES:
Thursday, June 30th at 7PM: Strawberry Jam
Thursday, July 28th at 7PM: Cucumber Pickles
Thursday, August 25th at 7PM: Tomato Salsa
August
Thursday, August 25, 2022
7 p.m.
A Taste of Nature: Canning 101 Series
The Nature Place
575 St. Bernardine Street Reading, PA 19607
Berks Nature is joined by the Widoktadwen Center for Native Knowledge to learn, through practice, the value and satisfaction of food preservation and canning. We will provide all canning supplies including produce grown primarily at The Nature Place. Participants will leave each session with their own canned product and canning recipes.
*PLEASE FEEL FREE TO BRING OWN PRODUCE TO CAN! If you do not have your own some will be provided by Berks Nature.
DATES:
Thursday, June 30th at 7PM: Strawberry Jam
Thursday, July 28th at 7PM: Cucumber Pickles
Thursday, August 25th at 7PM: Tomato Salsa
September
Saturday, September 24, 2022
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Guts & Glory Digestive and Wellness Expo
Penn State Berks Perkins Plaza Event Lawn
1801 Broadcasting Road
Wyomissing, PA 19610
Guts & Glory is an annual wellness exhibition – a journey of wellness education, nutritional awareness, and health. Be sure to catch a special interactive performance by Native Nations Dance Theater of Philadelphia from 10:30-11:00 a.m.!
October
Thursday, October 20, 2022
9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Kutztown University McFarland Student Union Building
Health & Wellness Expo
This year we are bringing the Expo to the North Side of Campus at the McFarland Student Union Building on Thursday, October 20th with the theme “Wellness Fall Carnival.”
Saturday, October 29, 2022
10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
LGBT Center of Greater Reading
The LGBT Center of Greater Reading is partnering with Drexel University College of Medicine Health Outreach Project for our 2022 Community Health Fair.
November
Saturday, November 5, 2022
10 a.m.
Exeter Community Library
Storytime and Craft!
Indigenous Film Festival
Week of 11/7/22-11/11/22
Monday, November 7, 2022
6 p.m.
Fox Berkshire, Wyomissing
Night Raiders (2019)
The year is 2043. A military occupation controls disenfranchised cities in post-war North America. Children are property of the State. A desperate Cree woman joins an underground band of vigilantes to infiltrate a State children’s academy and get her daughter back. Night Raiders is a female-driven dystopian drama about resilience, courage and love.
Reserve your FREE ticket at the box office OR reserve your FREE ticket online! ($1.99 processing fee applies to all online reservations)
Wednesday, November 9, 2022
Boscov Theater at the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts
Fighting Indians documentary screening and panel discussion with filmmaker Mark Cooley and the Coalition of Natives and Allies.
On May 16th, 2019, The State of Maine made history by passing LD 944 An Act to Ban Native American Mascots in All Public Schools, the first legislation of its kind in the country. For Maine’s tribal nations, the landmark legislation marked an end to a decades long struggle to educate the public on the harms of Native American mascotry. Fighting Indians chronicles the last and most contentious holdout in that struggle, the homogeneously white Skowhegan High School known for decades as “The Home of the Indians.” This is the story of a small New England community forced to reckon with its identity, its sordid history, and future relationship with its indigenous neighbors. It is a story of a small town divided against the backdrop of a nation divided where the “mascot debate” exposes centuries old abuses while asking if reconciliation is possible.
Wednesday, November 9, 2022
Screenings of multiple films all day at Kutztown University. Free to the public!
MSU Alumni Auditorium
12-2 p.m. Ama
3-5 p.m. Awake
6-8 p.m. More Than a Word
Thursday, November 10, 2022
7:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.
Doubletree Hotel Reading
Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Berks Regional Chapter Presents:
National Philanthropy Day Awards & Breakfast
Followed by a Conversation with Edgar Villanueva, author of Decolonizing Wealth
Thursday, November 10, 2022
1 p.m.
Home from School: The Children of Carlisle documentary screening
Reading Public Museum
Free with museum admission. Guests will also be able to view the new exhibition Indigenous Identities: Portraits of Native Americans in the Civil War Era with their general admission.
Friday, November 11, 2022
Screenings of multiple films all day at Kutztown University. Free to the public!
MSU 218
12-1 p.m. Film Shorts on Indigenous Fashion
1-2 p.m. Film Shorts on Two Spirits and Feminism
3-5 p.m. Home from School
6-8 p.m. Rhymes for Young Ghouls
Monday, November 14, 2022
6:30 p.m.
Exeter Community Library
Native American Genealogy Program
Join us for a dynamic presentation about diving into your roots with our Native American Genealogy program at the Exeter Community Library. We’ll be sharing resources and research approaches, and debunking myths about Native American DNA. Guests will have the opportunity to ask questions.
Tuesday, November 15, 2022
1:00-4:00 p.m.
Kutztown University McFarland Student Union Building MSU 218
Indigenous Peoples’ Showcase
Sponsored by Kutztown University Multicultural Center
Thursday, November 17, 2022
11 a.m.
West Lawn-Wyomissing Hills Library
Storytime
We’ll be reading We Are Water Protectors…and then we’ll enjoy a fun and interactive water activity.
Friday, November 25, 2022
9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Native American Heritage Day Celebration & BOOKFAIR!
Barnes & Noble Reading
Join us for a day-long event celebrating Native American Heritage Day!
We’ll have story times for kids, crafts for all ages, traditional storytelling, music, Native American artifacts, and more! This event is coupled with a fundraising BOOKFAIR, where every store purchase made with our Bookfair ID 2641643 benefits the Widoktadwen Center for Native Knowledge. The more sales made, the more our charity earns. 5% of online purchases made with our Bookfair ID will also go to us, so no worries if you’re unable to shop in person. You can also use our code IN STORE at any Barnes and Noble anywhere on November 25th, 2022 and support us from wherever you are! ( The day’s on site events will take place at the Wyomissing store ONLY.)
Tuesday, November 29, 2022
6:30 p.m.
Indigenous Approaches to Conservation
Berks County Conservation District
Join us to learn about Indigenous people’s relationship with their environment and traditional approaches to conservation. We’ll explore the idea of reciprocity in our relationship with nature.
February
Friday, February 3, 2023
6 p.m.
Fireside Fridays with Berks Nature
The Nature Place at Berks Nature
A conversation by the fireside at The Rookery at The Nature Place with Widoktadwen Center for Native Knowledge. Visit Berks Nature’s website for registration.
Sunday, February 5, 2023
3 p.m.
Native Americans in Berks County: Past, Present, Future
Bern Reformed United Church of Christ
3196 Bernville Rd, Leesport, PA 19533
In this introductory presentation, folks will learn about Native American history in Berks County and Pennsylvania at large. We’ll talk about misconceptions of Native American identity and what the local Native American community looks like today. Together, we’ll consider this ever-important question: “How has the past shaped our present moment?” Guests will have the opportunity to ask questions.
Saturday, February 18, 2023
doors open 3 p.m., game starts 4 p.m.
Night at the Reading Royals
Santander Arena
We are excited to announce that in February we are joining forces with the Reading Royals to be the nonprofit of the game on February 18th for Ant Man & the Wasp Night! We hope that you’ll join us for a night of fun and community engagement and support the important work of our organization. Purchase your tickets through this link and we will receive a portion of the proceeds: https://fevo.me/widoktadwen23
Thursday, February 23, 2023
6:30 p.m.
Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Center
522 W Maple St, Allentown, PA 18101
Two Spirit Stories from Indian Country
All are invited to join us for our dynamic Two Spirit Stories from Indian Country event lead by Amanda Funk (she/her) from Widoktawen Center for Native Knowledge! Grab your friends and come on out to enjoy good food and drink while we learn about Two Spirit (2S) identities and listen to the stories of several notable 2S leaders. Test your new knowledge with our Kahoot! games for a chance to win some prizes!
For more information, reach out to Robin Gow (they/ze/he), Associate Director of Community Programs at Robin@BradburySullivanCenter.Org.
March
Saturday, March 4, 2023
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Dr. Super’s House of Health
2209 Quarry Drive, Suite B-21
Reading, PA 19609
Adjust-A-Thon by Dr. Super’s House of Health
We’re honored to be selected as the donation recipient for this month’s Adjust-A-Thon by Dr. Super’s House of Health! Visit Dr. Super on Saturday, March 4th for a chiropractic adjustment or chair massage, with all donations going to the Widoktadwen Center for Native Knowledge.
Saturday, March 11, 2023 (snow date 3/18)
10 a.m.
Indigenous Women of Berks
Berks History Center
Learn about the enduring legacy of Indigenous women in Berks County and their important cultural roles in traditional Native society. We’ll enjoy some traditional refreshments and have a lovely giveaway for all attendees! Program sponsored by Berks Women’s History Alliance.
April
Saturday, April 22, 2023
12:00-6:00 p.m.
Earth Day Berks
Reading City Park (11th & Washington)
We are so excited to welcome our loving and graciously supportive community and neighbors to join us for a fun, festive, and unforgettable day! This year is also the City of Reading’s 275th Anniversary Celebration! Take pride in our heritage and abundant support of our Mother Earth with free entertainment including wildlife presentations, live bands, activities for the kids, an interactive Indigenous experience, and appearances by popular mascots as well as delicious food, various guest speakers, assorted vendors and our wonderful exhibitors such as FirstEnergy, Deka, Public Works of Reading, and many others!
May
Saturday, May 6, 2023
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Reading Muhlenberg Career & Technology Center
Camel Project Berks Street Art Festival
Come enjoy this outdoor family fun day filled with art, interactive activities, music, and food! Show off your talents with chalk on the asphalt paved lots at RMCTC. It’s free for everyone to attend! All ages are welcome. There will be music, art, food, entertainment, and lots of other activities for children and adults. We’ll provide the chalk, or you can bring your own. Register below. (Free chalk to first 200 registered chalk-art participants.)
June
Saturday, June 3, 2023
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Riverfront Park, Reading, PA
Good Medicine Indigenous Wellness Celebration
Thank you to our Giveaway Sponsor, Wildcraft Landscapes! And thanks to our media sponsor, Natural Awakenings magazine, for promoting the event!
Widoktadwen Center for Native Knowledge presents our first annual Good Medicine Indigenous Wellness Celebration on Saturday, June 3rd at Riverfront Park in Reading, PA. Learn about Native American approaches to health and wellness and connect with local resources.
We will kick off the event with a Rally for the River at 10 am with an exciting lineup of speakers to teach us about the history of our beloved Schuylkill River and how our health is intricately connected to the health of our land and water. Water is life!
Event is FREE and open to ALL!
FREE FOOD AND SWAG
HEALTHY COOKING DEMOS
HEALTH EDUCATION
VACCINES
HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS
NATIVE AMERICAN DANCE DEMOS
MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT
LOCAL WELLNESS PROFESSIONALS
NONPROFIT RESOURCES
GUN SAFETY EDUCATION
ARTS AND CRAFTS
KAYAK DEMOS
WELLNESS GIVEAWAYS
RAFFLES & MORE!
Thursday, June 8, 2023
6:15 p.m.
Boone Area Library
Paper Bag Applique Craft for Kids
Try your hand at some Eastern Woodland style applique designs! To make applique designs, Native Americans use ribbons or cloth cut into patterns and shapes, sewed onto clothing or bags. These new materials were introduced by European traders and are still used by Native artisans today. We’ll make our own version on a paper bag with handles and decorate them using colored paper cut into the design of your choice. Try your hand at a traditional woodland floral design or come up with your own creative idea for an image!
Saturday, June 17, 2023
10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Nolde Forest
3025 New Holland Rd, Reading, PA 19607
Foraging and Forest Bathing Program with Berks Nature
Spend the day reconnecting with nature. Start by finding your breath and cultivating mindfulness during a guided forest bathing meditation. Through this therapeutic practice, you will tap into both the restorative effects of time in nature and time in mindful reflection. Next a guide from the Widoktadwen Center for Native Knowledge will lead a forest foraging hike, seeking out mushrooms, berries, and other wild edibles. Wild foraging provides opportunities for communing with nature and practicing one tenet of reciprocity with the land embodied by indigenous culture: the Honorable Harvest. Learn more about the indigenous way of life and how to safely identify wild edibles! Please note, end times are approximate. $5 per Person! Learn more and register with Berks Nature.
Tuesday, June 20, 2023
3-5 p.m.
Reading Public Museum
Food for Thought: Foraging (a Reading Public Library program)
Join us on a walk with the Reading Public Library where we will learn to identify edible plants and fill our baskets with the ingredients for a foraged dish! This is a free program. Register with the Children’s Department of the Reading Public Library. We’ll meet in the museum parking lot for a field trip.
Wednesday, June 21, 2023
12 p.m.
Boyertown Library
Braiding Sweetgrass for Young Adults Book Talk and Foraging Activity
Join Widoktadwen Center for Native Knowledge to meet for a YA book talk centered on Braiding Sweetgrass for Young Adults and learn about Indigenous approaches to environmental conservation. Following our book talk, we’ll take a short foraging walk near the library, make observations about our environment, and then make a little snack with our foraged finds. Each program attendee gets to take home their own copy of Braiding Sweetgrass for Young Adults!
Monday, June 26, 2023
4 p.m.
Spring Township Library
Braiding Sweetgrass for Young Adults Book Talk and Foraging Activity
Join Widoktadwen Center for Native Knowledge to meet for a YA book talk centered on Braiding Sweetgrass for Young Adults and learn about Indigenous approaches to environmental conservation. Following our book talk, we’ll take a short foraging walk near the library, make observations about our environment, and then make a little snack with our foraged finds. Each program attendee gets to take home their own copy of Braiding Sweetgrass for Young Adults!
Tuesday, June 27, 2023
6 p.m.
Boyertown Library
Indigenous People of Berks County and Beyond
Program audience: adult
In this introductory presentation from Widoktadwen Center for Native Knowledge, folks will learn about Native American history and cultures in Berks County and Pennsylvania at large. We’ll talk about misconceptions of Native American identity and what the local Native American community looks like today. Together, we’ll explore the evolution of local Indigenous cultures and identities for a better understanding of the complex diversity of Native American peoples.
July
Saturday, July 8, 2023
10 a.m.
West Lawn-Wyomissing Hills Library
Indigenous Storybook Celebration!
Explore five storybooks paired with crafts and activities as a family! Families will go home with copies of the books while supplies last. Free! No registration required.
Monday, July 10, 2023
1:00 p.m.
Boone Area Library
Teen craft: Buckskin Medicine Bags
Teens will create a small medicine bag out of buckskin and simulated sinew. We will add the leather lace to draw the bag closed and tie around the neck. Keep some of your favorite treasures close to your heart.
Monday, July 24, 2023
5:30-6:30 p.m.
Wernersville Public Library
Indigenous People of Berks County and Beyond
Program audience: adult
In this introductory presentation from Widoktadwen Center for Native Knowledge, folks will learn about Native American history and cultures in Berks County and Pennsylvania at large. We’ll talk about misconceptions of Native American identity and what the local Native American community looks like today. Together, we’ll explore the evolution of local Indigenous cultures and identities for a better understanding of the complex diversity of Native American peoples.
Wednesday, July 26, 2023
10 a.m.
Fleetwood Park
333 W. Main Street, Fleetwood, PA 19522
Tigers in the P.A.R.K. (Play, Activities, Reading, for Kids)
Fleetwood Area Public Library
Tigers in the P.A.R.K. programs are geared for ages 3-10 and require adult supervision. (This is not a drop off program.) Find them at various locations around the Fleetwood Area on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 10 am.
On July 26th, we’ll hear from the town public works director and town engineer, who will teach us about work that was recently done to restore the creek in the park and how we can do our part to protect the creek. At the Widoktadwen learning station, we’ll talk about how Indigenous people view their relationship with the water and how we can all serve the creek as Water Protectors.
Wednesday, July 26, 2023
6:30 p.m.
Sinking Spring Public Library
Braiding Sweetgrass Program
The Widoktadwen Native Center will be at the library on Wednesday, July 26th at 6:30 p.m. to give an in person presentation. Join us to learn about the Native Center and the cultural significance of sweetgrass. There will be sweetgrass given to attendees. Also enter door prize raffles for a chance to win a hand crafted native keychain, a copy of The Seven Generations and The Seven Grandfather Teachings by James Vukelich or Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer.
We recommend that you borrow and read Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer from our library before the program. We can provide you with a copy if you pick it up from Sinking Spring Library. First come first served. Audiobooks are also available. *Reading the book is not a requirement. We can put the book on hold for you if you like.*
August
Tuesday, August 1, 2023
1 p.m.
Sinking Spring Library
Paper Bag Applique Craft
Try your hand at some Eastern Woodland style applique designs! To make applique designs, Native Americans use ribbons or cloth cut into patterns and shapes, sewed onto clothing or bags. These new materials were introduced by European traders and are still used by Native artisans today. We’ll make our own version on a paper bag with handles and decorate them using colored paper cut into the design of your choice. Try your hand at a traditional woodland floral design or come up with your own creative idea for an image!
Saturday, August 12, 2023
Riverfront Park
Riverzilla!
9-11 a.m. park clean up
11 a.m.-3 p.m. kayaking, biking, food, and other fun outdoor activities!
Join us for a riverfront cleanup from 9-11 a.m. at Riverfront Park in Reading, followed by our free Riverzilla community event! This event is open to ALL and is meant to connect the community with outdoor resources along the river, as well as other local organizations in Reading. Enjoy free kayaking, biking, food, and river-related activities for the family!
September
Saturday, September 23, 2023 (canceled due to weather)
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Penn State Berks
Perkins Plaza Event Lawn
1801 Broadcasting Rd
Reading, PA 19610
Guts & Glory Digestive & Wellness Expo
October
Saturday, October 7, 2023
First Energy Stadium
11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Out in the Park with LGBT Center of Greater Reading
Join us for a great time at the 3rd Annual “Out in the Park” at FirstEnergy Stadium in Reading, PA! Get all the latest updates at https://www.lgbtcenterofreading.com/out-in-the-park. Admission is $5 for adults and children get in free! The event will feature food & drink concessions, entertainment, crafts/artisan vendors, nonprofit vendors (providing resources), healthcare vendors, a kid’s corner and more!
Sunday, October 8, 2023
GoggleWorks Center for the Arts
12 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Pumpkin Palooza!
Pumpkin Palooza is an admission free family-friendly event that features hundreds of handblown glass pumpkins for sale, including a limited edition 2023 pumpkin available at Pumpkin Palooza only. Visitors can also make their very own pumpkin in hot glass, fused glass, flameworking and metals. Registration links are on their website. Enjoy the fall weather, games, kids’ activities, arts and crafts, and create lasting memories with loved ones this fall.
Saturday, October 21, 2023
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
YWCA Tr-County Area
315 King Street
Pottstown, PA 19464
Week Without Violence Block Event
Week Without Violence is part of a global movement with YWCAs across the country and around the world to end violence against women and girls. At YWCA, we know that not all violence is acknowledged or responded to equally and that some victims go unrecognized altogether. That’s why, for more than 20 years, YWCA has set aside one week in October as a Week Without Violence. Join us for a block party on October 21 as we raise awareness, elevate survivor voices, talk with policymakers, and more with a common goal: centering survivors so that together, we can end gender-based violence.
Thursday, October 26, 2023
Kutztown University McFarland Student Union Building
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Health Vibes: Health and Wellness Expo
Sunday, October 29, 2023
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Jewish Federation of Reading
1100 Berkshire Blvd, Suite 125
Wyomissing, PA 19610
Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz’s Health & Wellness Fair
Come join us at the Jewish Federation of Reading from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and learn more about your health and get guidance to access local resources. COVID boosters and flu shots will be available during fair.
November
Wednesday, November 1, 2023
Alvernia University, Bernardine Lecture Hall
Showings at 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
Indigenous Film Festival Screening
Awake: A Dream from Standing Rock
Saturday, November 4, 2023
11 a.m.
Wyomissing Public Library
Family Storytime!
Join us to read Rabbit’s Snow Dance and have some crafty fun!
Saturday, November 4, 2023
2 p.m. reception
3 p.m. screening
$5 Admission
Discussion to follow
REEL INJUN
BOSCOV THEATRE @ GOGGLEWORKS
Wednesday, November 8, 2023
Wernersville Public Library
5:30-6:30 p.m.
Mythbusters: Indigenous Edition!
What do you think you know about Native American history? The American imagination, sports mascots, and popular entertainment have defined Native American identity for decades. But who are Native Americans really? What issues are important to Native people today? Join Amanda Funk of the Widoktadwen Center for Native Knowledge for a myth-busting program at the library and walk away with a better understanding of who Native Americans are today.
Thursday, November 9, 2023
1 p.m. screening
Free with museum admission
GATHER
Reading Public Museum
Wednesday, November 15, 2023
12-1:30 PM FILM SCREENINGS
FREE AND OPEN TO PUBLIC
SHORT FILMS: INDIGENOUS FASHION
SHORT FILMS: TWO SPIRITS & FEMINISM
KUTZTOWN UNIVERSITY McFARLAND STUDENT UNION
Wednesday, November 15, 2023
2:00-5:00 p.m.
Free and open to public
Multicultural Center Native Showcase!
Kutztown University McFarland Student Union
Tuesday, November 21, 2023
1 :30 PM FILM SCREENING
DISCUSSION & REFRESHMENTS TO FOLLOW
FREE AND OPEN TO PUBLIC
RUMBLE: THE INDIANS WHO ROCKED THE WORLD
MILLER CENTER @ READING AREA COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Friday, November 24, 2023
9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Native American Heritage Day Celebration & BOOKFAIR!
Barnes & Noble Reading
Join us for a day-long event celebrating Native American Heritage Day!
We’ll have story times for kids, crafts for all ages, traditional storytelling, music, Native American artifacts, and more! This event is coupled with a fundraising BOOKFAIR, where every store purchase made with our Bookfair ID benefits the Widoktadwen Center for Native Knowledge. The more sales made, the more our charity earns. 5% of online purchases made with our Bookfair ID will also go to us, so no worries if you’re unable to shop in person. You can also use our code 12700324 IN STORE at any Barnes and Noble anywhere on November 24th, 2023 and support us from wherever you are! (The day’s on site events will take place at the Wyomissing store ONLY.)
Saturday, November 25, 2023
1 p.m.
Wyomissing Public Library
Native Americans in Berks County: Past, Present, Future
In this introductory presentation, folks will learn about Native American history in Berks County and Pennsylvania at large. We’ll talk about misconceptions of Native American identity and what the local Native American community looks like today. Together, we’ll consider this ever-important question: “How has the past shaped our present moment?” Guests will have the opportunity to ask questions.
January
Monday, January 15, 2024
10 a.m. to noon
1805 Forrest St, Reading, Pa 19606
MLK Day of Service Pendora Park Cleanup
Join us on MLK Day of Service to clean up Pendora Park in Southeast Reading! All supplies will be provided. Dress for the weather. Refreshments provided to all volunteers! In partnership with Reading Public Works and Alvernia University Holleran Center.
March
Saturday, March 2, 2024
2nd Annual Women’s Resource Fair
11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Romanian Community Center
51 West Lawn Avenue, West Lawn, PA 19609
Join us from 11am-2pm on Saturday, March 2nd at the Romanian Community Center. This event aims to provide mental health resources, education, wellness and other valuable information to our community. Come out and meet your State Rep Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz and her staff. They will be available to provide constituents with information on state government-related programs and services available.
Saturday, March 30, 2024
Adjust-A-Thon with Dr. Super’s House of Health
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
2209 Quarry Drive
Suite B-21
Reading, PA 19609
Walk in on Saturday, March 30th from 10-3 for chiropractic and massage services by donation. Any donations received for care during the Adjust-a-Thon go right to us at Widoktadwen Center for Native Knowledge. Don’t miss out on your free care day! We’ll also be sharing information and resources at our table in the waiting area. Door prize drawing for email sign-ups at the event.
April
April 1, 2024
10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Adopt-A-Block Park Cleanup!
Where: Front and Schiller Playground. Limited parking available on Schiller Street. From Buttonwood Street, turn onto Front Street. Access Schiller Street from Front Street, just behind the Magic Wok. The turn comes up fast, so keep an eye out!
Join us Monday morning at the Front & Schiller Playground for an early spring cleanup! We’ll be cleaning up the block as part of our commitment to the City of Reading’s Adopt-a-Block program. Invite a friend to join you! We’ll supply all the materials needed for the cleanup. Dress for the weather, wear sunscreen and a hat. Don’t forget to bring your reusable water bottle! This event is rain or shine. Click here to sign up to volunteer!
Friday, April 5, 2024
11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Buttonwood Garden Volunteer Workday!
Buttonwood Community Garden next to Front & Schiller Playground
137 W. Buttonwood Street, Reading, PA 19601
Join us for a Garden Workday at Buttonwood Community Garden on Friday, April 5th from 11 am to 2 pm. Dress for the weather and bring water! We will have some garden tools, but feel free to bring work gloves and helpful garden tools with you. Bring a shovel if you have one! We will be leveling off the garden surface, laying wood chips and gravel between beds, and adding soil/compost to community garden plots.
Directions: From Buttonwood Street, turn on Front Street (one-way street) at Magic Wok. Then immediately turn left on Schiller Street before you get to the bridge. Limited parking is available along Schiller Street.
Click here to sign up to volunteer!
April 20, 2024
City Park 11th & Washington Streets
12:00-6:00 p.m.
Earth Day Berks!
The annual Berks County Earth Day Celebration is a family friendly event with a dedicated mission to educate the community and increase awareness on sustainability and the environment…. ranging from local to global topics and everything in between! This year will once again feature Native American entertainment and dance demos. Immediately before the event from 9-11, we’ll be participating in the Great American Cleanup at our Adopt-a-Block location, the Front & Schiller playground. Join us for a full day of fun!
Thursday, April 25, 2024
7 p.m.
Heidelberg Heritage Society, Lerch Tavern
182 W Penn Ave, Wernersville, PA 19565
Indigenous People of Berks County
May
Saturday, May 4, 2024
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Reading-Muhlenberg Career & Technology Center
Berks Street Art Festival, Presented by The Camel Project
Thursday, May 16, 2024
6:00 p.m.
Sinking Spring Public Library
3940 Penn Avenue, Sinking Spring, PA
Native Plant Foraging
Widoktadwen Center for Native Knowledge will be at the Sinking Spring Library to talk about foraging and native plants. Join us to see examples of seeds, native plants, and how they can be used! Please register by calling 610-678-4311 (ex. 2).
Saturday, May 18, 2024
11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
PA German Cultural Heritage Center
Queer Foraging Walk
Join us for this FREE community event co-sponsored by Queer & Trans Lehigh Valley. We’ll enjoy a casual walk around the ground exploring edible wild plants and learning about Indigenous and PA Dutch herbal traditions this time of year. Bring a basket if you’d like to bring some goodies home!
June
Saturday, June 8, 2024
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Riverfront Park, Reading, PA
Good Medicine Indigenous Wellness Celebration
Widoktadwen Center for Native Knowledge presents our second annual Good Medicine Indigenous Wellness Celebration on Saturday, June 8th at Riverfront Park in Reading, PA. Learn about Native American approaches to health and wellness and connect with local resources. Register your business or organization today!
Event is FREE and open to ALL!
FREE FOOD AND SWAG
HEALTHY COOKING DEMOS
HEALTH EDUCATION
VACCINE INFO
HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS
NATIVE AMERICAN DANCE DEMOS
MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT
LOCAL WELLNESS PROFESSIONALS
NONPROFIT RESOURCES
GUN SAFETY EDUCATION
ARTS AND CRAFTS
KAYAK DEMOS
WELLNESS GIVEAWAYS
RAFFLES & MORE!
For sponsorship opportunities, click here.
Thanks to our 2024 Giveaway Sponsor, Jefferson Health Plans!
August
Sunday, August 4, 2024
2 p.m.
Berks County Heritage Center
Indigenous People of Berks County
Knowledge, for an introductory presentation about Native American history and cultures in Berks County and Pennsylvania at large. Topics of discussion include misconceptions of Native American Identity, what the local Native American community looks like today, and the evolution of local Indigenous cultures and identities to better understand the complex diversity of Native American peoples.
FREE | Open to the Public
Saturday, August 17, 2024
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Riverfront Park, Reading, PA
Riverzilla!
September
Saturday, September 7 and Sunday, September 8, 2024
Corn Festival
Zion Spies Lutheran Church
310 Spies Church Road, Reading, PA 19606
Join us for a seasonal celebration of the first corn harvest!
4:30-7:30 p.m. Saturday, 9/7
We’ll kick off our time together Saturday evening with some games and fellowship, followed by a potluck dinner at 5:30 and a Native American Church service at 6:30, led by Pat & Fritz Bower. Everyone is welcome to participate in an adapted communion with cornbread and apple juice elements. We’ll have themed crafts and coloring pages for kids. Widoktadwen Center for Native Knowledge will be making three sisters stew and cedar maple tea for the occasion. Bring a favorite dish to share. All are welcome!
9:00 a.m. to noon Sunday, 9/8
We’ll have an indoor Native American Church service on Sunday morning at 9:00, complete with a fuller music program and an organ accompaniment. After the service, we’ll gather in the fellowship hall for a light lunch and further conversation with all our relations. All are welcome to attend and learn!
Saturday, September 28, 2024
Guts & Glory Digestive & Wellness Expo
Sunday, September 29, 2024
Berks Cultural Diversity Festival
12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
City Park in Reading, PA
Visit us at the Berks Cultural Diversity Festival! Bring the Change presents the Fifth Annual Berks Cultural Diversity Festival on Sunday, September 29, 2024, from 12-6 PM at City Park in Reading. Building upon the success of its inaugural festival, Bring the Change will be hosting this event in partnership with diverse community organizations including the Dominican Association of Pennsylvania, Jewish Federation of Reading/Berks, Centro Hispano Daniel Torres, NAACP Reading Branch, and CICOP Ministry. The festival is meant to celebrate diversity and help create greater unity through music, food and dance. The event will be family-friendly with games, food trucks, cultural performances, vendors and more.
October
Sunday, October 13, 2024
Fall Queer Foraging Walk
1:00-3:00 p.m.
Saucony Creek, Kutztown
Join us for a free Fall Queer Foraging Walk with Queer & Trans Lehigh Valley! Meet at Kutztown Elementary School parking lot at 1 pm. Bring sturdy walking shoes and a basket if you’d like to gather some goodies.
Tuesday, October 22, 2024
10 a.m.
Reading Public Museum
Arboretum Education Program: Indigenous Approaches to Conservation
Join us to learn about Indigenous people’s relationship with their environment and traditional approaches to conservation. We’ll explore the idea of reciprocity in our relationship with nature.
Saturday, October 26, 2024
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
315 King St. Pottstown
YWCA Tri-County Area Week Without Violence Block Event
Week Without Violence is part of a global movement with YWCA’s across the country and around the world to end violence and to bring communities together and take a stance to stop violence of any kind. Join us for music, food, art and more as we close out the week-long event.
November
Friday, November 1, 2024
Widoktadwen Presents: First Foods
5:30 p.m.
Wernersville Public Library
Join us for a demo about how our diets have changed and how we can incorporate traditional foods into our lives, featuring a local Indigenous recipe!
Saturday, November 2, 2024
Yuletide Holiday Market
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Reading Public Museum
The Reading Public Museum will host the first Yuletide Holiday Market on Saturday, November 2nd in the Stone Terrace Tent and Arboretum from 10am-3pm. Vendors will be set up under the tent and along the walking paths in the Arboretum. The Market is free for shoppers to attend! After you peruse the Market, shopping for the perfect holiday gifts, visit The Museum to explore their permanent and temporary exhibitions.
Sunday, November 3, 2024
Bern Reformed United Church of Christ (near Blue Marsh Lake)
3196 Bernville Road, Leesport, PA 19533
4 p.m.
Indigenous Film Festival Screening: SongKeepers (2010)
Hosted by Turtle Moon Native American Flute Circle
This documentary is a saga of five Native Americans told through the sound of the flute. It includes interviews and performances by major artists of the American Indian flute tradition. Kevin Locke, R. Carlos Nakai, Sonny Nevaquaya, Tom Mauchahty-Ware, Hawk LittleJohn and Dr. Richard Payne share their stories and insights into the culture and music of the indigenous flute.
Before the film screening, all are welcome to participate in a monthly meeting of the Turtle Moon Native American Flute Circle. The flute circle will start early this week, 12:30 pm instead of 1:00, and they will play until 2 pm, take a break for their flute raffle and announcements, and then play again until 3:30. They will allow time to pack up our flutes, trading blanket and lending library. The film will show from 4-5pm. All are invited to take part in the flute circle! They usually include an extended rhythm groove in the beginning with flute improvisation. There are plenty of instruments to borrow, and no experience is necessary!
Friday, November 15, 2024
Reading Public Museum
1 p.m.
Indigenous Film Festival Screening:
s-yéwyáw: Awaken
Ecko Aleck of the Nlaka’pamux Nation (Lytton, BC,) Alfonso Salinas of the shíshálh Nation (Sunshine Coast, BC,) and Charlene SanJenko of Splatsin of the Secwépemc Nation (Shuswap, BC,) are learning and documenting the traditional cultural teachings and legacies of their Elders, including the impacts of genocide resulting from Canada’s Indian Residential School (IRS) system. Calling the audience’s attention to the filmmaking process of narrative collaboration between an Indigenous and settler team, this character-driven documentary connects the transformative stories of three Indigenous multimedia changemakers and their four Elders. Infused by Indigenous ceremony, s-yéwyáw: Awaken walks alongside the process of intergenerational healing.
Monday, November 18, 2024
8:00 to 9:30 a.m., doors open at 7:30
American Indian Healthcare Summit
Berks County Community Foundation
In honor of Native American Heritage Month, Widoktadwen Center for Native Knowledge invites the Greater Berks County healthcare community to attend our first American Indian Healthcare Summit to learn more about urban Indigenous health, Indigenous data sovereignty, and how data decolonization works. The summit will take place on Monday, November 18, 2024 from 8:00-9:30 AM at the Berks County Community Foundation. Doors open at 7:30 AM for breakfast. There is no cost to attend this event, but please register to confirm your participation.
Friday, November 29, 2024
Native American Heritage Day Celebration and Bookfair!
Barnes & Noble Wyomissing
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Join us for a day-long event celebrating Native American Heritage Day!
We’ll have story times for kids, crafts for all ages, traditional storytelling, music, Native American artifacts, and more! This event is coupled with a fundraising BOOKFAIR, where every store purchase made with our Bookfair ID (12823027) benefits the Widoktadwen Center for Native Knowledge. The more sales made, the more our charity earns. 5% of online purchases made with our Bookfair ID will also go to us, so no worries if you’re unable to shop in person. You can also use our code IN STORE at any Barnes and Noble anywhere on November 29th, 2024 and support us from wherever you are! (The day’s on site events will take place at the Wyomissing store ONLY.)
Saturday, November 30, 2024
11 a.m.
Wyomissing Public Library
Storytime and Craft: We Are Grateful
December
Saturday, December 28, 2024
11 a.m.
Wyomissing Public Library
Storytime and Craft: Winter’s Gifts
January
Saturday, January 18, 2025
10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Zion Spies Lutheran Church
310 Spies Church Road, Reading, PA 19606
Learn to Make Cordage
For centuries many cultures, including many Indigenous to Turtle Island, have made ropes from natural fibers, including the bark and other plant fibers. In this workshop, we’ll learn about two cordage making processes and discuss traditional and modern uses for that cordage.
February
Saturday, February 15, 2025
10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Zion Spies Lutheran Church
310 Spies Church Road, Reading, PA 19606
Learn to Bead
In this workshop, we’ll learn about beadwork history and a basic two needle flatstick technique to bead around a cabochon and create a pin. This workshop is intended for folks who have never tried beadwork before and will give step-by-step guidance to help you learn the craft.
March
Sunday, March 16, 2025
Monthly Beading & Community Circle
1-3 p.m.
Zion Spies Ev. Lutheran Church
310 Spies Church Rd, Reading, PA 19606
New offering! Widoktadwen is now hosting monthly beading circles on the third Sunday of every month from 1-3 p.m. We are in intertribal community space open to allies. No beading experience needed! Free supplies available. Come and learn or bring projects.
Sunday, March 30, 2025
Volunteer Day & Community Dinner
1-6 p.m.
Zion Spies Ev. Lutheran Church
310 Spies Church Road, Reading, PA 19606
Did you know Widoktadwen relocated our headquarters? We are now located on the lower level of Zion Spies Ev. Lutheran Church. We’ve moved all of our stuff in, so now it’s time to make it home! Help us knock out items on our to-do list to get the Center and the grounds ready for our Chili Cook Off and Open House next weekend! Volunteers are welcome to come and go at any time in the 1-6 p.m. time frame. We will conclude our volunteer time together making a Kitchen Sink Chili–everyone brings an ingredient to contribute to the pot. Come join us!
April
Saturday, April 5, 2025
Chili Cook Off Fundraiser & Open House
5:00-7:30 p.m.
Zion Spies Ev. Lutheran Church
310 Spies Church Road, Reading, PA 19606
Calling all home cooks and chili enthusiasts! We’re hosting a Chili Cook Off Fundraiser to support this summer’s Adventure Day Camp Programming, held on site at Zion Spies Ev. Lutheran Church! The Chili Cook Off will take place on Saturday, April 5th from 5:00-7:30 pm.
Prizes will be awarded to cooks in the following categories:
People’s ChoiceJudge’s ChoiceMost Original RecipeBest Representation of Native American Ingredients: corn, beans, squash, tomatoes, chilis, potatoes, bison, turkey, wild game
Cooks will arrive to set up their chili pot/crockpot by 4:30 pm. We will have electricity available. Please register to compete by March 21st at this link: https://forms.gle/AP74Vn5R2W4B7CQE8
And for those who are excited for the eating part…make sure you mark your calendar for a delicious evening of chilis and accompaniments!
Suggested donation for admission to event is $10 for adults and $5 for kids. ***All event guests will enjoy unlimited chili sampling, toppings, cornbread, beverages, and desserts.*** Invite your friends and family to come out and join us for a community feast!
We will accept cash, checks, and digital donations through Give Lively and Venmo. Donations can be made at the door and there will be extra collection drums on the dining tables.
Give Lively https://secure.givelively.org/…/widoktadwen-center-for… OR text NATIVEBERKS to 44321Venmo: @widoktadwen
Donations can also be given directly to Zion Spies Ev. Lutheran Church and directed to Adventure Day Camp.
Monday, April 21, 2025
Monthly Beading & Community Circle
1-3 p.m.
Zion Spies Ev. Lutheran Church
310 Spies Church Rd, Reading, PA 19606
New offering! Widoktadwen is now hosting monthly beading circles. (Usually held on the 3rd Sunday, we pushed our event one day out due to the Easter holiday.) We are an intertribal community space open to allies. No beading experience needed! Free supplies available. Come and learn or bring projects.
Saturday, April 26, 2025
Great American Cleanup
8 a.m.-1 p.m.
Earth Day Berks
12-6 p.m.
City Park, 11th & Washington Streets, Reading
Every year Earth Day Berks and the City of Reading hold an Earth Day event in City Park, Reading. Earth Day features environmental exhibits, for profit and non profit vendors, educational demonstrations , food and music. The event is free to the public. 2025 will be the 55th Anniversary of the first Earth Day in 1970.
May
Sunday, May 11, 2025
Women’s Healing Circle
2-4 p.m.
310 Spies Church Rd, Reading, PA 19606
We have an exciting new ceremonial offering for you! We’re hosting a Women’s Healing Circle in honor of Mother’s Day on Sunday, May 11th from 2-4 p.m. at Zion Spies Lutheran Church in the upstairs parlor. Anyone who identifies as a woman or femme is welcome, including both Indigenous folks and our allies. Dress comfortably and bring a teacup or mug to enjoy our tea potluck. Bring your favorite tea bags for the group to try! We’ll provide the hot water.
Join this experiential journey in community-supported self-healing led by Pampamesayoq Jenny Daughter of the Mountains, a.k.a. Jennifer Craig, BA, CPS, CFRS. Our healing soundtrack is Matriarch: Iroquois Women’s Songs, performed by Joanne Shenandoah. Please do your best to arrive at least 15 minutes early to settle in so we can start the ceremony at 2 pm.
*Suggested minimum contribution of $15 per family.* Everyone is welcome regardless of ability to pay.
A $5 registration deposit is required to reserve your spot. Additional contributions to our healer, Jenny, can be made at the conclusion of the event. 50% of donations will be directed back to Widoktadwen Center for Native Knowledge to support free community health programs. Register today to save your spot!
Sunday, May 18, 2025
Monthly Beading & Community Circle
1-3 p.m.
Zion Spies Ev. Lutheran Church
310 Spies Church Rd, Reading, PA 19606
New offering! Widoktadwen is now hosting monthly beading circles on the third Sunday of every month from 1-3 p.m. We are in intertribal community space open to allies. No beading experience needed! Free supplies available. Come and learn or bring projects.
June
Wednesday, June 11-July 30, 2025
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Adventure Day Camp
310 Spies Church Rd, Reading, PA 19606
Join us for an 8-week summer day camp! We will meet on Wednesdays June 11-July 30, 2025 from 9-4. Each week’s theme will be one of the Seven Grandfather teachings of Anishinaabe tradition: love, respect, bravery, humility, wisdom, honesty, and truth. Children ages 6-13 are invited to participate. (Older teens may be able to participate as helpers.)
What can you expect at summer day camp?
Spend time in the 28-acre woods! Walk on the Nature Trail. Visit a sheep farm. Go swimming. Play games. Make arts and crafts. Learn about Native American peoples and cultures. Enjoy fellowship with other children, youth, and adults. Parents/Grandparents may accompany their child.
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and water bottle each day!
Bus Transportation is available to/from 3 locations in Reading/West Reading:
1. St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 1559 Perkiomen Ave in East Reading
2. Bethany Lutheran Church, 336 Franklin St in West Reading
3. Christ Lutheran Church, 1301 Luzerne St. Glenside
Children may also be dropped off at Zion Spies Church at 9:00 a.m. each morning and picked up at 4:00 p.m.
Week 1: June 11
Week 2: June 18
Week 3: June 25
Week 4: July 2
Week 5: July 9
Week 6: July 16
Week 7: July 23
Week 8: July 30 (End of Camp Celebration!)
The cost is $25 per day, which covers program expenses, snacks, crafts, and transportation. For those who are unable to pay the full cost, please choose from one of our lower cost tiers based on your family’s needs.
Tier 1 $25
Tier 2 $15
Tier 3 $10
Sunday, June 15, 2025
Monthly Beading & Community Circle
1-3 p.m.
Zion Spies Ev. Lutheran Church
310 Spies Church Rd, Reading, PA 19606
New offering! Widoktadwen is now hosting monthly beading circles on the third Sunday of every month from 1-3 p.m. We are in intertribal community space open to allies. No beading experience needed! Free supplies available. Come and learn or bring projects.
Saturday, June 28, 2025
Good Medicine Indigenous Wellness Celebration
9-11 a.m. Riverfront Park Cleanup with Keep Reading Beautiful
11-3 p.m. RAIN or SHINE!
Riverfront Park
255 Riverfront Dr, Reading, PA 19602
Widoktadwen Center for Native Knowledge presents our third annual Good Medicine Indigenous Wellness Celebration on Saturday, June 28th from 9 am to 3 pm at Riverfront Park in Reading, PA. We will begin with a park cleanup from 9-11 am, and the main event will kick off at 11 am and conclude by 3 pm.
We’re offering our community the opportunity to learn about Native American approaches to health and wellness and connect with local resources. We’ll also have healthy cooking demonstrations and free food samples for the public. This free, family-friendly event is open to ALL!
We encourage you to share our event info with other businesses or organizations whose work you think fits within the scope of our event’s Indigenous wellness theme. We are also looking for volunteers! Interested volunteers can reach out to amanda@widoktadwen.org.
FOR BUSINESSES:
We want to extend an invitation for your business or organization to participate in our community celebration. More information can be found on our online registration form. After you submit the form, your confirmation page will include a link to pay online for event registration. We look forward to seeing everyone there on June 28th! Interested in sponsoring our event? Click here for more information.
Garden Level Sponsors 2025:
July
Friday, July 18, 2025
6-8 p.m.
Sinking Spring Public Library
Native Book Club
Announcing our brand new Native Book Club series! We’re so excited to bring Native stories by Native authors to readers in Greater Berks County. Our July pick is Empire of Wild by Cherie Dimaline.
Sunday, July 20, 2025
1-3 p.m.
Monthly Beading Circle
Zion Spies Ev. Lutheran Church, Lower Level
310 Spies Church Rd, Reading, PA 19606
New offering! Widoktadwen is now hosting monthly beading circles on the third Sunday of every month from 1-3 p.m. We are in intertribal community space open to allies. No beading experience needed! Free supplies available. Come and learn or bring projects.
August
Monday, August 25, 2025
5-7 p.m.
Exeter Community Library
Native Book Club
Announcing our brand new Native Book Club series! We’re so excited to bring Native stories by Native authors to readers in Greater Berks County. Our August pick is a new contemporary romance, Love is a War Song by Danica Nava.
September
Sunday, September 21, 2025
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Autumn Equinox Gathering & Feast
Zion Spies Lutheran Church
310 Spies Church Rd, Reading, PA 19606
Join us for our first ever Autumn Equinox Gathering & Feast on Sunday, September 21st from 11 am to 3 pm. We will gather in the fellowship hall on the lower level of Zion Spies Lutheran Church. Free family-friendly event!
Event Schedule:
11 am Potluck Feast
Sign Up Here to Bring a Dish to Share!
12 pm Eastern Woodland Social Dance Instruction by Barry Lee of Spirit Wing Arts & Music, sponsored by Reading Musical Foundation
1-3 pm Monthly beading circle, featuring a kid-friendly pony bead crafting option for ages
7-11. Open to beginners or experienced crafters…bring your works in progress.
Saturday, September 27, 2025
10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Wyomissing Public Library
Native Book Club
Old School Indian by Aaron John Curtis
Saturday, September 27, 2025
12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
City Park, 11th & Washington Streets, Reading, PA
October
Saturday, October 11, 2025
7-9 p.m.
Indigenous Monsters & Spiderweb Earring Workshop
Zion Spies Lutheran Church
310 Spies Church Rd, Reading, PA 19606
Join us for an excitingly terrifying exploration into stories of Indigenous monsters! We’ll learn about some traditional monsters/legendary creatures from various Native American traditions, as well as hear some contemporary scary stories by Native authors from the anthology Never Whistle at Night.
We will also offer materials and instruction for how to make some spooky beaded spiderweb earrings. The program includes a $15 fee to cover the cost of materials and instruction. This program is recommended for ages 16 and up.
Tuesday, October 14, 2025
4-6 p.m.
Reading Public Library (Main)
Teen Native Book Club
Sunday, October 19, 2025
Monthly Beading & Community Circle
1-3 p.m.
Zion Spies Ev. Lutheran Church
310 Spies Church Rd, Reading, PA 19606
Widoktadwen is now hosting monthly beading circles on the third Sunday of every month from 1-3 p.m. We are an intertribal community space open to allies. No beading experience needed! Free supplies available. Come and learn or bring projects.
November
Monday, November 10, 2025
2 p.m.
Reading Public Museum
Indigenous Film Festival: Amá
Amá tells an important and untold story: the abuses committed against Native American women by the US Government during the 1960s and 70s. The women were removed from their families and sent to boarding schools. They were subjected to forced relocation away from their traditional lands and, perhaps worst of all, they were subjected to involuntary sterilization.
Tuesday, November 11, 2025
4-6 p.m.
Reading Public Library (Main)
Teen Native Book Club
Tuesday, November 18, 2025
6 p.m.
Alvernia University PLEX
Film Screening: Blood Memory
Thursday, November 20, 2025
7 p.m.
GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, Boscov Theater
Film Screening: Water for Life
Saturday, November 22, 2025
10 a.m. to noon
Firefly Bookstore, Kutztown, PA
Native Book Club: Everything Is a Story by Kaitlin B. Curtice
Announcing our brand new Native Book Club series! We’re so excited to bring Native stories by Native authors to readers in Greater Berks County. November’s pick is Everything Is a Story: Reclaiming the Power of Stories to Heal and Shape Our Lives by Kaitlin B. Curtice.
Friday, November 28, 2025
12-6 p.m.
Firefly Bookstore, Main Street, Kutztown, PA
Native American Heritage Day Celebration & Fundraiser
Widoktadwen Center for Native Knowledge 