Free family event includes dance & drum competitions, Native American arts & crafts and traditional foods
A centuries-old Native American tradition will take place Oct. 18-20 in Potawatomi Bingo Casino’s Expo Center at the ninth annual Hunting Moon (Gi Wse Gises) Pow Wow, a free family event that is open to guests of all ages.
Pow wows are traditional Native American social celebrations that draw families together – from the very young to the elderly – to join in signing, dancing and fellowship.
Attendees will witness an event steeped in tradition, from the intricate footwork and graceful movements to the beautiful regalia worn by the dancers.
More than 500 dancers and 25 drum groups from across the United States and Canada will compete at this year’s event, hosted by the Forest County Potawatomi Community. Prize money to be awarded totals more than $95,000.
Doors open at 3 p.m. Friday, Oct. 18 and a ceremonial grand entry, led by the host tribe, color guard and Pow Wow head dancers and royalty, will kick things off in style at 6 p.m.
The Pow Wow will continue over the weekend with doors opening at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 19 and Sunday, Oct. 20. Grand entry times will be 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday and noon on Sunday.
In addition to the competition, there will be plenty more for guests to do and see during this year’s event.
A variety of vendors will be selling Native American arts and crafts while traditional Native American foods will be available for purchase in the casino’s food court.
New this year will be a free performance by topselling recording artists Brulé at 9:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 18 in the Northern Lights Theater.
The group combines music and dancing to create a unique show that blends contemporary Native American sounds and rhythms.
The show is limited to guests 21 and older only.
For more information about Hunting Moon Pow Wow, visit www.huntingmoonpowwow.com.
