By ROSELYNN YAZZIE

Office Of Public Affairs

FORT HALL – The Idaho State Historical Society (ISHS) Board of Trustees awarded the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes the 2026 Esto Perpetua Award for the Shoshone-Bannock Indian Festival, honoring more than 60 years of cultural celebration and community gathering.

The 2026 Esto Perpetua Awards recognize organizations, festivals, and traditions that reflect ISHS’s mission to preserve and share Idaho’s history across generations. In commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary, the awards also serve as a moment of unity, encouraging reflection on the past and a shared commitment to the values that shape the American experience.

Although the Tribes were unable to attend the formal ceremony in June, the award was presented on August 9 following the final grand entry. Fort Hall Business Council Chairwoman Donna Thompson accepted the award from Dr. Cheryl O’Brien, Chair of the ISHS Board of Trustees.

Since 1999, ISHS has used the Esto Perpetua Awards to spotlight individuals, organizations, and communities whose work enriches understanding of Idaho’s history. In presenting this year’s award, O’Brien said, “The Shoshone-Bannock Indian Festival has reflected the strength, history, and cultural identity of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes. It is a gathering that brings together families, generations, and visitors to honor those who came before while continuing traditions that remain central to the Shoshone-Bannock people today.”

In a letter, Governor Brad Little commended the Tribes for strengthening community bonds and preserving meaningful traditions. Additional congratulations were shared by Congressman Mike Simpson and Senator James Risch.

Chairwoman Thompson said the Tribes proudly accept the honor and acknowledged the many individuals of the past, present, and future whose dedication has shaped the Festival into the celebrated event it is today.

This year’s other recipients included: Paul Bunyan Days, St. Maries; Wallace Fall for History Festival, Wallace; Chief Lookingglass Pow-Wow, Kamiah; Grangeville Border Days, Grangeville; National Oldtime Fiddler’s Contest, Weiser; Idaho Veterans Parade, Eagle; Jaialdi, Boise; Wagon Days, Ketchum; Idaho Days, Franklin; Shoshone-Bannock Indian Festival, Fort Hall; American Dog Derby, Ashton.

Cutline: After the final grand entry at the Shoshone-Bannock Indian Festival on August 9, Idaho State Historical Society Board of Trustees Chair Dr. Cheryl O’Brien presented the 2026 Esto Perpetua Award to Fort Hall Business Council Chairwoman Donna Thompson in recognition of the annual event. (Office of Public Affairs photo)