Have a heart Aztec

Both Neah-Kah-Nie High School and Rockaway Beach will be filled with Aztec dance, music, art and cultural activities honoring the connection between people and the ocean at Ofrenda a Nuestro Océano Sanador, An Offering to Our Healing Ocean, this Sunday, Aug. 2.

Celebrating the 10th anniversary of Huehca Omeyocan, the event combines cultural celebration with environmental education.

A full day of free cultural workshops will also be offered Saturday, Aug. 1, with no registration required.

Founded in McMinnville by Eduardo Cruz Torres Amictlan and Maria Elena Cortes Duran Malinalmiquiz, Huehca Omeyocan shares the traditions of Mexica-Chichimeca, or Aztec, dance and music. The performances express the relationship between the natural world, the human spirit and the broader universe through ceremonial movement and rhythm.

The celebration begins on the school’s softball field before participants proceed across Hwy. 101 to the beach for a closing ceremony by the Pacific Ocean. Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy educational exhibits, hands-on activities and opportunities to learn about protecting Oregon’s coastal ecosystems.

Sunday’s event runs  from 11 am to 3:30 pm at Neah-Kah-Nie High School, located at 24705 Hwy. 101 in Rockaway Beach. Guests are encouraged to bring a chair and picnic. Admission is free, though donations are welcome. For more information, go to netartsbaywebs.org.