After a couple of decades of construction, ideation, collaboration, and commitment, the First Americans Museum will finally open its doors to the public on September 18. During the grand opening celebrations, there will be entertainment, cultural demonstrations, and activities for the whole family to enjoy.
“We are thrilled to share with the public a premier venue dedicated to the history, art and cultural lifeways of First Americans in Oklahoma. We invite everyone to the long-awaited opening of FAM in September,” said James Pepper Henry, FAM director and CEO. “Those who attend the Grand Opening will be among the first to experience a national treasure that will be enjoyed for decades to come.”
Tickets went on sale Sunday, Aug. 1, at 10 a.m. for $5 per person, per day and can be purchased exclusively through the museum’s website. Admission for FAM members and children under 3 is free. Due to expected large crowds, all tickets must be purchased in advance of opening weekend, so be sure to purchase yours before Saturday.
The museum will open at 8 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 18, and a tribal procession of 39 distinct tribal nations taking place at 10:30 a.m., followed by remarks from tribal, city and museum leaders. To view a complete list of Grand Opening Weekend entertainment, activities, shopping, and dining options, visit famok.org.
During Grand Opening Weekend only, no onsite parking will be available, except for parking provided for visitors with disability parking placard credentials. FAM is finalizing details for offsite paid parking and will provide updates on the museum’s website as more information becomes available. Free parking shuttle services will be available to transport visitors all weekend to and from designated parking sites, starting at 8 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 18, and running throughout the weekend’s scheduled events. The use of rideshare services is strongly encouraged.
To ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment, FAM is following CDC COVID-19 guidelines for large group events. The museum’s campus will operate with timed entry tickets to ensure visitors have ample space to observe social distancing. Due to observance of health and safety protocols regarding capacity in enclosed spaces, access to FAM exhibition galleries may be limited on opening weekend. FAM encourages visitors to return on a future date to explore the extensive exhibit galleries.
FAM is committed to providing universal access to the museum’s campus and all events. Please contact FAM to request additional disability accommodations. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.
About FAM
First Americans Museum celebrates our shared American history through the collective stories of 39 distinct tribal nations in Oklahoma today. The museum promotes awareness and educates the broader public about the unique cultures, diversity, history, contributions, and resilience of the First American nations. The 175,000 square foot facility will showcase state-of-the-art exhibitions in history, culture, and art; live public and education programs; a children’s discovery center with immersive family-friendly activities; a full-service restaurant presenting unique Native inspired cuisine; and a museum shop featuring one-of-a-kind hand-made items created by Oklahoma’s premier Native American artists. The museum is located at 659 First Americans Boulevard in Oklahoma City.
