Caddo Nation Showcases Culture and Heritage at 2025 American Indian Exposition Bringing Community Together in Anadarko

2025 American Indian Expo Parade

The 2025 American Indian Exposition took place in Anadarko, Oklahoma, from October 26 through November 1, bringing together tribal communities for a week-long celebration of Native American culture, tradition, and unity. 

Event Highlights 

The exposition featured a diverse lineup of events throughout the week, including the Beautiful Baby Pageant, downtown Anadarko parades, Grand Entry ceremonies with various contest categories, and traditional dance competitions. Attendees enjoyed carnival rides and entertainment, HandGame competitions at the fairgrounds, and a tipi contest with judging. Community activities such as Princess Trunk or Treat at Anadarko High School, downtown Trunk or Treat, and a 5K & Wellness Walk brought families together. Dance competitions showcased talents across multiple categories including Tony Tots, Juniors, Golden Age, Teen Categories, and special performances, while drum contests and the Chalepah Na-I-Sha Manatidie: Apache Blackfoot presentation highlighted traditional music and culture. 

Caddo Nation Princess Kendall Howell waves to onlookers at 2025 American Indian Expo Parade

Caddo Nation's Notable Participation 

The Caddo Nation made an impression in both the opening and closing exposition parades. The Caddo Culture Club and Caddo Nation Child Care Department each created their own floats for the occasion. The Child Care Department's float featured live drummers and singers who brought traditional Caddo music to the streets of Anadarko. Caddo Princess Kendall Howell graciously greeted spectators and distributed candy to excited children along the parade route. 

Following the float, various Caddo Nation department vehicles participated in the procession, including a showstopping 1946 Chevrolet truck. This renovated vintage vehicle prominently displayed the names of Caddo Industries Enterprise, SAKU, CNEDA, Arrowood, McKee's Indian Store, and George's Department Store, showcasing the breadth of Caddo Nation's community programs and partnerships. 

A Celebration of Unity 

All participating tribes presented amazing floats, each accompanied by their respective princesses who showcased their creativity and personalities through unique designs and presentations. The festive atmosphere was enhanced by vehicles passing out candy to eager bystanders and children lining the parade route. 

One of the beautiful murals in downtown Anadarko along the parades route

The American Indian Exposition serves as a vital gathering that brings together the entire Anadarko community and surrounding tribal nations to celebrate their rich cultural heritage, strengthen inter-tribal bonds, and share traditions with future generations. The Caddo Nation has participated in the parade for many years and always looks forward to the next year's event. This annual celebration continues to be a cornerstone of cultural preservation and community pride in southwestern Oklahoma.