From press release:
CHEROKEE, N.C. – For almost four decades, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians has hosted its annual Pow Wow on the Qualla Boundary and this year’s promises to be the best ever.
This year’s event, July 4-6, features world-champion dancers and drums competing for prizes. Vendors from across the country will offer food and arts and crafts items. The Pow Wow attracts thousands of visitors each year from all over the world.
Principal Chief Michell Hicks said, “Every summer we welcome dancers from around the country and Canada to join us for our annual Pow Wow and we are pleased to offer more than $60,000 in prize money for competition. We also welcome visitors to join us for this special event and to learn about contemporary Native culture.”
Dance competitions are open to participants in five groups and several categories including Traditional, Grass, Fancy, Straight, Jingle and Buckskin. There will also be Northern and Southern Singing prizes and a Hand Drum special. Age groups include “Golden Age” contestants (age 50+), men and women (age 18-49), teens (13-17), Junior (6-12), and tiny tots (under age 5). Specials include Men’s Fancy and Straight, Women’s Jingle, Old Style Fancy Shawl, Cowboy/girl and two Junior specials.
The Pow Wow opens at the Acquoni Expo Center (formerly Cherokee High School) Friday, July 4, at 5 p.m. with a grand entry at 7 p.m. and a fireworks show at 10:00 p.m. The event begins Saturday, July 5 at 10 a.m. and grand entry at 1 p.m. and 7 a.m., and Sunday, July 6, at gates open at noon with grand entry at 1 p.m. Admission is $10 per day with a weekend pass for $25.
Head staff includes Emcee Denis Bowen, Arena Director Gabe Bullock, Head Dance Judge Will Tushka and Head Singing Judge John Toineeta.
For more information visit: http://visitcherokeenc.com/events/detail/39th-annual-4th-of-july-powwow/#sthash.ZlXc1zSj.dpuf
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