Bear Dance Chief, Matthew Box, will present a Bear Dance Workshop and Demonstration on Saturday, July 18th. The Workshop will take place at the La Veta Mercantile, 300 South Main Street. The Bear Dance Demonstration will be performed in Francisco Fort Plaza at the Museum, next door. Everyone is invited to participate and dance with members of the Southern Ute Tribe. The Bear Dance Workshop and Demonstration are free events and open to everyone.

7:30 to 9:30 AM The day opens with a pancake breakfast. Sponsored by the First United Methodist Church. Come and enjoy breakfast outside, accompanied by the Orphan Valley Singers. All proceeds go to Friends of Francisco Fort History Museum. The location is at 306 South Main Street, right next to the library. Suggested $10 donation.

11:00 AM A Bear Dance Workshop will be held at the La Veta Mercantile, 300 South Main. Chief Matthew Box will speak about the Bear Dance, its history, and significance. Free event

2:00 PM The Bear Dance Demonstration will take place in the historic Francisco Fort Plaza. Chief Box will lead the Demonstration and Dance. Everyone is welcome to participate in the dance. Free event

Free admission to the Francisco Fort Museum 10:00 AM to 4 PM on July 18, 2026