Explore Toppenish Historic Murals
Central Washington's Cultural Heritage Center Near Yakima
Feb 26, 2009
Central Washington is home to many historical and cultural attractions open to visitors. Toppenish is home to a large display of colorful murals, illustrating historic and cultural events of the region. Visitors can attend the Mural-in-a-Day event, watching paint come to life. The Yakama Nation Museum and Cultural Heritage Center provides exhibits and events on Native American culture and heritage.
Toppenish Washington - City of Murals
The murals in Toppenish are known as one of the biggest mural programs in America. Over 70 outdoor murals, depict historical events, and culturally important artwork. The Toppenish Mural project began as a Mural-in-a-Day in June of 1989. The Toppenish Mural Society began the program by painting, “Clearing the Land”, an entire mural in one day. The mural painting event commemorated the Washington State Centennial. Each first Sunday in June marks the date of the new Mural-in-a-Day event. Visitors are amazed at the technique and ability of artists who paint these massive murals.
The murals have won several awards including the Washington Governors Art Award and several others. Many of the murals show the cultural diversity of the area while others represent the city’s motto, “Where The West Still Lives.” Western scenes painted on the walls through downtown, give visitors a sense for what it might have been like during pioneer days. Native American scenes depict celebrations or everyday life of the native inhabitants.
The murals honor the heritage of the area, historic events and the men and women that made contributions to the city of Toppenish throughout its history. The murals can be found all over town. Visitors can park and walk around the town, viewing the murals and stopping at unique stores and boutiques. Maps of the murals are available from stores in the downtown area of Toppenish.
Yakama Nation Museum and Cultural Heritage Center
Central Washington is home to sun, wine and cultural heritage. Home to the Yakama Nation, the region proudly boasts its history and heritage. The Yakama Nation Cultural Center contains one the most rich Native American exhibits in the country. The center is open year-round and attraction visitors to the area. The wall-sized poetry and murals depict the Native American connection to nature and bring the old traditions to life. The exhibits reveal the history of the Yakama Nation, where visitors explore the drama through tales of the past. Visitors can take a guided tour, listen to storytelling or attend a pow-wow at the cultural center. Events occur year-round at the Yakama Nation Cultural Center in Toppenish.
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