Spring brings a season of renewal, and at the Seminole Nation Museum, it also marks a time for community members to come together in support of preserving and sharing Seminole history and culture.

The museum will host its 30th Annual “April Shower” fundraiser on Wednesday, April 8, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Seminole Nation Museum, 524 S. Wewoka Ave. in Wewoka. This year’s event is presented in partnership with the Daisy Garden Club and, for the first time, co-sponsored by the Orchid Garden Club, whose members have joined in supporting the long-standing tradition established by the Daisies three decades ago.

The annual fundraiser offers attendees three distinct ways to participate, all benefiting the museum’s operations, programming, and preservation efforts.

Guests may take part in the April Shower Giving Event by contributing cash or non-cash donations. These contributions directly support the museum’s exhibits, educational initiatives, and ongoing maintenance needs. A “wish list” of commonly needed items is also available for those who prefer to give in-kind and includes items like cleaning supplies, paper goods, office supplies, and postage stamps. A list of items is located on their website and social media.

In addition, a community lunch will be served from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with dine-in and carry-out options available. There is a charge for the meal. Prepared by Kristi Boots and Kerri Houghton, the meal will feature grilled chicken lemon linguini pasta, fresh garden salad, garlic breadstick, homemade brownie, and a drink.

A special feature of this year’s event is the “Cheers to 250 Years” Legacy Sale, which will run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The sale includes Independence Day-themed décor and collectibles donated by the families of two beloved museum supporters, Patsy Cook and Sharyn Garner. All proceeds from the sale will benefit the museum.

Organizers say the April Shower fundraiser plays a vital role in sustaining the museum’s mission. Funds raised support everything from youth educational programming and public exhibitions to improvements to the museum’s grounds and facilities.

This year’s fundraising efforts will focus on two key projects. The first is the replacement of the cooking arbor used during the Wewoka Sorghum Festival, where sorghum syrup has been prepared for over fifty years. The current structure is in disrepair and will require approximately $3,800 to replace.

The second project involves repairing the museum’s Fry Bread Booth, a central attraction and major fundraising site on the museum grounds during the festival, and a location enjoyed by the public throughout the year. After replacing one side of the structure last year, the museum now seeks to complete repairs on the remaining three sides, addressing damage caused by rot and termites at an estimated cost of $7,400.

Museum officials emphasize that community support through the April Shower fundraiser has a lasting impact, helping ensure the Seminole Nation Museum continues to grow as a cultural resource with regional and statewide significance.

Whether attending to give, dine, shop, or enjoy all three, community members are encouraged to participate in this annual tradition of support and celebration.

For more information, contact the Seminole Nation Museum at 405257-5580 or info@SeminoleNationMuseum. org.