Oka Kapassa: Return to Coldwater

Oka Kapassa is a special Native American gathering that is held in Spring Park and is dedicated to celebrating the culture and traditions of American Indians who once thrived in north Alabama.

The gathering is a coming home of sorts for the tribes that were forcibly removed from their homes in the Southeast.

American Indians found Colbert County very hospitable, in fact, Creek Indian Chief Chilly McIntosh once said, "As long as our nation remains upon this earth, we will recollect Tuscumbia."

The two-day celebration is focused around Spring Park in Tuscumbia. Oka Papassa means coldwater. Friday, however, is dedicated to schoolchildren, with many events held at the Children’s Museum of the Shoals in Florence.

Numerous activities are held that provide a unique experience. Those include storytelling, stone carving, flute music, flute making, stickball games, blowgun demonstrations, basket making, authentic Indian foods, mound builder pottery, Chickasaw stomp dancers, bow and arrow demonstrations and children’s activities.