Chickasaw Three Sisters Celebration to take place virtually

The Chickasaw Nation Three Sisters Celebration will happen virtually this year due to COVID-19. The celebration will take place daily beginning at 10 a.m., March 17-19. Viewers from around the world may tune in from the convenience and safety of their homes to enjoy this year’s virtual event by logging on to the Chickasaw Cultural Center’s Facebook page at Facebook.com/ChickasawCC.

Each day will consist of videos focusing on the important elements of Chickasaw history, language, culture and traditions — from planting methods, to storytelling, language and cultural demonstrations — there is something for everyone to enjoy. The celebration is an important time in Chickasaw lives as it represents rebirth and renewal as spring crops are planted.

“The Chickasaw people refer to corn, beans and squash as the ‘three sisters.’ As an ancient method of gardening, the three sisters planting technique uses an intercropping system to grow corn, beans and squash simultaneously. It provides long-term soil fertility and healthy crops. This annual event observes the changing of the seasons and planting of essential crops like the three sisters,” Eddie Postoak, director of cultural resources, said.

Corn, beans and squash have provided nutrition for the Chickasaw people for generations. These “three sisters” grow together and support each other as they thrive. Traditionally, the vegetables were planted together in early spring or summer. These plants provide for each other, just as they provide for Chickasaw families.

Sessions from this year’s online festivities can be accessed after they occur at Facebook.com/ChickasawCCC.