Long ago, in what is now known as the Monterey and San Francisco Bay Areas, the Ohlone lived on the land. For thousands of years, the “people of the West” — 40 to 50 distinct groups of Native Americans — foraged, hunted, roamed and traded up and down the coast. Then came the Spanish and the Missions and the rest, as they say, is history.

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park makes its annual trip to the past 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday (September 19) during Ohlone Day. Descendants of the Awaswas — native to Santa Cruz — and other Ohlone will share their traditional crafts, foods and practices.

The event, co-sponsored by California State Parks and Mountain Parks Foundation, is a chance for people who are not in grade school (and therefore required to learn about California history) to get to know about those who once lived in this majestic corner of the world.

Prepare food using acorns, mortar and pestle and hot rocks. Make a fire with a piece of wood and string. Practice throwing a spear using an atlatl. Practice flint knapping, the art of making stone tools. Watch traditional Ohlone dances. Listen to stories from the past. There will also be traditional basketry, songs, musical instruments, games and more.

The main entrance to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is located off Highway 9 in Felton.

Ohlone Day. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, 101 N Big Trees Park Rd, Felton. Free. (831) 335-7077.