Green Corn Dance

The Green Corn Dance was the greatest ceremonial rite of the Creek Indians, held at the time of year before corn had fully matured and while the grains were still soft. It celebrated the harvest season and was marked by intense religious devotion. In preparation for the festival, old fires were extinguished and new ones were lighted from old fire embers. A main fire was placed in the center of a square area, and around this central fire men, women, and children dressed in colorful costumes danced, chanted, and sang. After the rites were completed, green corn was served to all. The Choctaws and other tribes held similar ceremonies.

Eufaula, Oklahoma · United States