TODAY'S HOURS 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Now
89°
Sat
85°
Sun
84°
Mon
81°
Tue
82°
Powered by OpenWeatherMap
Hours
Visit
Hours & Admission Directions & Parking Accessibility Groups & Tours Surrounding Attractions Campus Map
Experience
Events Daily Activities Films and Videos Classes & Activities
Explore
Welcome Center Campus Grounds Aachompa' Gift Shop Chikasha Poya Exhibit Center Holisso: The Center for Study of Chickasaw History and Culture Aaimpa' Café Anoli' Theater Chikasha Inchokka' Traditional Village Fine Art Galleries
Learn
History About Conservation
FAQ

First Encounter

First Encounter

JANUARY 1 - DECEMBER 31, 2026
Tuesdays: 11:30 a.m. - noon
Thursdays: 11:30 a.m. - noon
Fridays: 11:30 a.m. - noon
Saturdays: 11:30 a.m. - noon
Free

“First Encounter” is a documentary film that chronicles the Chickasaws’ introduction to European explorers in 1540, the tense relationship between the tribe and conquistador Hernando de Soto’s expedition, and the fiery battle between them that virtually ended de Soto’s mission.

First Encounter was produced by Chickasaw Nation Productions and has companion curriculum available for free at ChickasawFilms.com.

Related Events

Saturday Evening Movies

Every Saturday!
Anoli' Theater
$3 - $6
Join us in the Anoli’ Theater Saturday evenings for films that are perfect for the whole family!
Learn More

Behind the Scenes

JULY 9, 2026
Free
This short film shares a look into the building and construction of the Chickasaw Cultural Center.
Learn More

Stomp Dance Demonstration

JULY 9, 2026
Chikasha Inchokka' Traditional Village
Free
The stomp dance is a treasured tradition in Chickasaw culture and is performed daily at the Chickasaw Cultural Center.
Learn More

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring

JULY 11, 2026
Anoli' Theater
$3-$6
Frodo sets out on a journey to destroy a powerful ring he inherited and prevent the unthinkable.
Learn More
SEE ALL EVENTS
Today at the Cultural Center
Daily Activities
More
Exhibits
More
Films and Videos
More
See All Events

Connect With Us