City of Steamboat Springs to host Ute heritage celebration, sculpture dedication May 28

Steamboat Springs residents are invited to Civic Plaza on Thursday, May 28 at 5 p.m. for a public ceremony recognizing Ute heritage and the unveiling of a new sculpture, “The Northern Ute Bear Dancers,” according to a Thursday statement. 

The event will feature the dedication of a limestone sculpture by Southern Ute artist Oreland Joe Sr., depicting Ute community members participating in the traditional Bear Dance. The spring ceremony, shared among the three Ute Tribal Nations, represents renewal, strength and seasonal change.

“The Northern Ute Bear Dancers sculpture stands as a reminder to the community that the Ute people have stewarded the lands and waters of the Yampa Valley since time immemorial,” said Deputy City Manager Kelly Romero-Heaney in the statement. “This event is about more than a dedication — it’s about coming together to listen, learn, and celebrate a living tradition.”

Following the dedication, attendees can take part in a potluck at The Depot and meet artists and Tribal representatives. Participants are encouraged to bring a dish to share.

The free event is organized by Steamboat Creates, Tread of Pioneers Museum, Steamboat Art Museum and the city of Steamboat Springs.