Parking structure opens for Chickasaw Annual Meeting and Festival guests
TISHOMINGO, Okla. – Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby was joined by several tribal and community dignitaries in ribbon cutting ceremonies for a new parking structure Sept. 27.
The four-story Chickasaw Nation Parking Garage, 409 W. 7th St., is adjacent to the Aiitafama’ Ishto “large meeting place,” on the Chickasaw Capitol Building Grounds.
Governor Anoatubby said the nearly 500-space parking facility, surrounding resurfaced roads and parking spaces, as well as other infrastructure projects represents an investment in both the future growth of Tishomingo, as well as the Chickasaw Nation.
“There has been a tremendous amount of development here in our capital city of the Chickasaw Nation, Governor Anoatubby said.
“Together we are building things –not just buildings–we are building a future for our people.”
The parking garage, which was constructed in about nine months, allows for safe access to the 2,400-seat Aiitafama’ Ishto event center and surrounding facilities.
Opened in 2022, the 50,000-square-foot facility is the home of the Chickasaw Annual Meeting and is utilized for meetings, conferences and gatherings for the Chickasaw Nation.
Infrastructure projects are just as important as any new building, because necessary infrastructure allows for convenient and safe access to the buildings and facilities, Governor Anoatubby said.
Four blocks of roads connecting to the parking garage were resurfaced, and 30 additional paved parking spaces were created near the parking garage.
About Chickasaw Annual Meeting and Festival
Chickasaws from across the globe will gather to celebrate cultural pride during the Chickasaw Annual Meeting and Festival, Sept. 27 through Oct. 5. Each year, friends and family travel from near and far to attend the weeklong event, which is highlighted by Governor Anoatubby’s State of the Nation Address, set for 9 a.m., Oct. 5, at the Aiitafama' Ishto “large meeting place” on the Chickasaw Capitol Building Grounds in Tishomingo.
This year marks the 64th Annual Meeting of the Chickasaw Nation and 36th Chickasaw Festival.
A complete list of events, locations and schedules is available online at AnnualMeeting.Chickasaw.net. The event schedule is subject to change.