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Tahlequah, Oklahoma - The Cherokee Heritage Center will host the 3rd annual Indian Arts Appraisal Day on Saturday, July 12 from noon to 5 p.m.

Amateur collectors of Native American art are invited to bring up to three items for an informal appraisal. Experts in the fields of basketry, pottery, painting, carving, beadwork and much more will be on hand to offer appraisals and/or identification. No burial or funerary objects will be appraised.

In addition to appraisals, the day will highlight Usdi Fest, making it an event for the entire family. Usdi (oo-sti) is the Cherokee word for little or baby; accordingly this festival will feature children’s activities.

The festival is a celebration of Cherokee culture. Activities will include blowgun shooting, basket weaving, Cherokee language exercises, turban tying and other culturally specific activities.

A nominal fee of $5 per piece will be charged for appraisal. Usdi Fest is free. For more information on these events call Tonia Weavel at the Cherokee Heritage Center, phone: 918-456-6007, toll free 888-999-6007, or visit the CHC web site.