Credit: Contributed
Credit: Contributed
The highlight is the beating of the drums and sounds of traditional American Indian music. For American Indians, Pow Wow is a special event, as they reflect upon a rich heritage and show honor and respect for one another and the drum.
Men and women spend weeks preparing full traditional regalia — complete with long, weed-like fringe that is worn for the historic Grass Dance. The Grass Dance is a competition, as the seasoned performers have great pride in the beauty of this ceremony.
While the men perform the Grass Dance, the women shine during the traditional shawl and jingle dances— dressed in brightly-colored ensembles and demonstrate syncopated dance steps with fast, whirling rhythms.
Credit: Contributed
Credit: Contributed
In addition to the fun activities, traditional Native American arts, crafts and food vendors will be available. This all adds up to a fun, educational and satisfying weekend learning about Native American culture.
Credit: Contributed
Credit: Contributed
This year’s festival schedule is as follows:
Saturday:
11:00 a.m. — Entertainment TBA
Noon — Grand Entry - Flag Song - Victory Song - Prayer - Posting of the Staff and colors - Veterans Song
12:30 p.m. — Intertribal and Special dances
4:45 p.m. —Retreat of Staffs and Colors
5:00 p.m. —Dinner Break: Entertainment TBA
6:00 p.m. — Grand Entry - Flag Song - Victory Song - Prayer - Posting of the Staffs and Colors
6:30 p.m. — Intertribal and Special dances
8:30 p.m. — Retreat of Staffs and Colors
Sunday:
11:00 a.m. — Entertainment TBA
Noon — Grand Entry - Flag Song - Victory Song - Prayer - Posting of the Staffs and Colors - Veterans Song
12:30 p.m. — Intertribal and Special dances
4:45 p.m. — Retreat of Staff and Colors
(Schedule is subject to change)
WANT TO GO?
WHAT: 31st Annual Keeping the Tradition Pow Wow
WHEN: 12 p.m.- 8 p.m. Saturday, June 22 & 12 p.m.- 5 p.m. Sunday, June 23
WHERE: SunWatch Indian Village, 2301 West River Rd., Dayton
ADMISSION: $8 for adults, $6 for seniors (60+) and children 6-17, and free for children 5 and under. Weekend passes are available: $15 for adults, $9 for seniors and children 6-17, and free for children 5 and under.
INFO: 937-268-8199 | Website
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