The Ak-Chin Indian Community Masik Tas or “birthday” celebration commemorates the formal recognition of the Ak-Chin Indian Community. This year’s 10th-anniversary event offers free activities for community members, residents and the public. Come check it out! Events run November 30-December 4 and December 7-10.
The celebration kicks off with elder chair volleyball matches, men’s and women’s basketball tournaments, a pageant for Jr. Miss and Miss Ak-Chin titles, and a charity golf tournament on Monday, December 4 at the Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club that supports Special Olympics Arizona.
The 2017 Masik Tas Celebration Light Parade takes to Farrell Rd. within the community on Sunday, December 3 at 7 p.m. Come kick off your holiday season with this festive parade! Community members and families are encouraged to enter, and parade entries will be judged in numerous categories, including Biggest and Brightest and Best Lit Family/Community Member Group.
From December 8-10, the Carnival and Fun Zone will entertain the whole family with rides, booths, food, a petting zoo and carnival games at no cost. Carnival hours are 4-10:30 p.m. on Friday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. on Saturday, and noon-7 p.m. on Sunday with the Fun Zone opening at 4 p.m. on Friday, noon on Saturday, and 1 p.m. on Sunday.
On Friday at 7 p.m., Clay Walker and Parmalee, with special guest Kasey Tyndall, will perform in a free show. Gates open at 6 p.m.; bring blankets or low-back chairs. Other entertainment includes cultural performances and demonstrations with a Vaila dance on Saturday from 2 p.m. to midnight featuring multiple Chicken Scratch bands. All are welcome, and the event is free!
Another highlight of the Masik Tas celebrations is the rodeo from December 7-10. Jackpot roping happens Thursday, December 7 starting at 6 p.m., and Senior Quad roping starts Friday, December 8 at 9 a.m. The native-only Junior Rodeo and open Riding competition begins at 9 a.m. on Saturday, December 9, and the roping events wrap things up on Sunday, December 10. Rodeo registration is on-site, day-of only. Come see some exciting rodeo competition!
Most events take place at Ak-Chin Circle. For more information, visit the Masik Tas website or contact the Ak-Chin Indian Community Events Department, 520-568-1045. If you are a food or arts/crafts vendor, check out the website above or call for an application. Fees range from $75-$350 depending on space needed for the 4-day celebration starting December 7. Vendor application deadline is Wednesday, November 29. Don’t miss this year’s Masik Tas celebration!
