FORT HALL — The Shoshone-Bannock Indian Festival was formally presented with Idaho’s top historical distinction Sunday, accepting the Idaho State Historical Society’s 2026 Esto Perpetua Award as the festival wrapped up its 61st year.

Shoshone-Bannock Tribes Chairwoman Donna Thompson accepted the honor on the tribes’ behalf following the traditional welcome. It was an exciting honor for Thompson to accept the prestigious award and she thanked all of the festival’s past and present organizers for making the event what it is today.

Roselynn Yazzie, the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes public affairs manager, said the award reflects the work of the broader community rather than any single organizer.

“It’s really a testament to the community and all of the effort they put forth in wanting to show their hospitality and just show the pride we have in our community,” Yazzie said.

This year’s festival, held Thursday through Sunday, was guided by the theme “One people, one purpose, one future.”

One big challenge at this year’s event was the extremely hot temperatures. Organizers set up misting and water stations along with hydration tents to help keep everyone at the festival hydrated and cool.

This year’s festival also brought back a second parade after last year’s event was limited to one because of road construction.

Thursday’s Kids Parade was led by the Shooting Stars little league softball team, while Saturday’s parade honored Native American female veterans.

Yazzie pointed to several highlights from this year’s festival, including the powwow dancers, the tribes’ beadwork, the Indian relay races, and the free traditional buffalo and salmon feast held Sunday.

“I would definitely say seeing the dancers at the powwow (and) all the bead work, especially — Shoshone-Bannock people are known for their bead work,” Yazzie said about the festival’s highpoints.

She added that the Indian relay races drew strong crowds at the Fort Hall Rodeo Arena, noting Fort Hall’s standing as a hub for the sport.

The festival also included an Indian National Finals Rodeo Tour competition, along with hand games, softball, golf and horseshoe tournaments, an art show and a skate jam.

Tay’a Osborne was crowned Miss Shoshone-Bannock on Friday, taking on the role of cultural ambassador for the tribes.

Idaho National Laboratory also set up a STEM tent at this year’s festival, giving children a place to take a break and take part in hands-on learning.

Organizers estimated festival attendance to be in the thousands.

Looking ahead, Yazzie said organizers plan to build on what worked this year while addressing challenges tied to the festival’s growth, including parking.

“Our event gets bigger and bigger every year, so of course parking is going to be a challenge and camping,” Yazzie said. “It’s also part of the experience and the fact that we have so many people that plan this event as a summer destination. We’re really grateful to be able to host them.”