The Agua Fria Festival was an outstanding way to recognize the 1906 - 2006 Antiquities Act Centennial, and the preservation efforts of Arizona's archaeological, historical and fossil resources. Not only was it a picture-perfect day at the Horseshoe Ranch in the heart of the Agua Fria National Monument, but it was filled with so many exciting and fun activities. It is estimated that approximately 1,500 people joined the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and its partners to enjoy the informational exhibits, field tours and hikes, children's activities, live entertainment and delicious food.

Over forty exhibitors participated in the Agua Fria Festival, showcasing their cultural resources and projects and wildlife exhibits, and the many volunteer activities their service organizations sponsor. The entertainment at the Agua Fria Festival was outstanding, including Native American music and dance by the Yellow Bird Dancers; singing and story-telling by Arizona's official balladeer Dolan Ellis and State Historian Marshall Trimble. In addition, the Festival had special appearances by Alan Day, co-author of the Lazy B book with Sandra Day O'Connor, and Joyce Hunsaker, a.k.a. "Fannie" folklore interpreter.

There were also several demonstration exhibits that caught the participant's attention, including flint knapping, fire making, pottery making and firing, basket weaving, and cadastral surveying.

In addition to the diverse activities held at the beautiful Horseshoe Ranch, the Agua Fria Festival featured bird watching, nature hikes along the Agua Fria River and interpretive tours of the Pueblo la Plata and Badger Springs Ruins in the Agua Fria National Monument. Archaeologist and anthopologists from Arizona State University, Museum of Northern Arizona, the Deer Valley Rock Art Center, Arizona Site Stewards and the Arizona Archaeology Society were some of the tour leaders. A slide show presentation was also conducted on the Agua Fria National Monument to highlight the area's rich cultural heritage. You can view the slideshow in our Photo Gallery.

For full article and photos visit the BLM's website at http://www.blm.gov/az/afria_festi.htm.