#Return of the Xactci Dance
Canneci Tinne Apache Tribe at the Opelousas Museum
WHAT: Presentation of the Xactci Dance
WHO: The general public is invited
WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025
TIME: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
WHERE: Opelousas Museum, 315 N Main St., Opelousas, LA 70570
CONTACT: Patrice Melnick 337-948-2589; museum@cityofopelousas.com
November is National American Indian Heritage Month. On Saturday November 22, citizens of the
Canneci Tinne Apache Tribe will present the Xactci Dance, a ritual that has not been performed in
Louisiana for over 160 years. Please join us for the rise of sacred Indigenous traditions at 11 a.m. at the
Opelousas Museum, 315 N Main St., Opelousas.
The Canneci Tinne Apache Tribe, has lived in Louisiana since the 1700s. Their territories include St.
Martin Parish (Prairie Maronne) and Lafayette Parish (Bayou Tortue). Despite numerous pressures, they
persevere, living their culture through language, and traditions.
In the early 1800s, Native American Dancing was halted throughout the United States, including
Louisiana. One hundred and sixty years ago, the Apache of Louisiana practiced the Xactci dance for the
last time—until now. Tribal citizens have spent over a year creating regalia and learning rituals and
rhythms. Finally they will present the Xactci Dance for you and for the people for whom the dance lives
in their hearts and spirit. The presenters will wear ceremonial regalia and painted symbols as they step
in time in a circle. A Talker will talk about the history of the Xactci and culture of the Tribe. Come to
learn more about this sacred dance and about the citizens of the Canneci Tinne Apache Tribe.
Learn more at https://cannecitinne.com/
Creation of the regalia and the dance presentation was made possible through generous support of the
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation and from the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities.
The event takes place on Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Opelousas Museum, 315
N Main St., Opelousas, LA 70570.
FMI: Patrice Melnick 337-948-2589; museum@cityofopelousas.com
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