About ISF Inc.
Beginning in 1987, Indian Summer Festival served as an annual gathering of tribal nations in Milwaukee, WI, the City of Festivals.
This community gathering space centered the preservation of culture and traditions of Native Americans that have been passed from generation to generation for centuries.
Mayor Maier was an adamant supporter and positioned the event as a "vibrant" and "unique" conclusion to the city's festival season.
Indian Summer Festival traditionally takes place the weekend after Labor Day.
Choosing this time of year to gather together is not random, rather, it has a symbolic meaning for the tribal nations in the Midwest.
The festival is an occasion to acknowledge the successful ending of the agricultural season and the transition to the cold period of the year.
Indian Summer is a time to meet with each other to celebrate, foster good communication ties, share diversity, and engage in friendly competition.
Reviving the Tradition that Built the Legacy...
Indian Summer Festival was last held in September 2018, and its absence has been deeply felt, not only within the Native community, but also amongst the many people from various cultures and nationalities that inhabit the Milwaukee area. Many of whom valued the event and participated in the past.
The Indian Summer Festival Planning Committee is currently working to rebuild the resources and support needed to relaunch the festival and re-establish the gathering as a sustainable, annual celebration.
With renewed investment and community partnership, Indian Summer Festival can once again serve as a vibrant gathering that honors culture, fosters cross-cultural connection, and strengthens Milwaukee’s diverse community year after year.
VISIONOur vision is a future where Native cultures are celebrated, respected, and understood across generations. Indian Summer Festival will remain a place of cultural pride, learning, and unity for all who gather.
MISSION