Native Americans of all ages take part in the traditional powwow dances.
To many Native Americans in the United States, the spring and summer months are known as powwow season. A powwow is a social gathering at which Native Americans celebrate their culture and traditions. Many Native Americans lead modern lives in communities across the country. Powwows give them opportunities to take part in customs that go back many generations. Powwows also let other people see how Native Americans keep their heritage alive.
The Gathering of Nations event at the end of April kicked off this year’s powwow season. It is one of the biggest powwows in the world. Thousands of people from hundreds of tribes gathered in a large arena in Albuquerque, New Mexico, to do traditional dances to the rhythm of drums and chanting singers. Many of the dances have religious meanings or tell stories about people or events that are important to their cultures. More than 100,000 people watched thousands of dancers and singers perform and take part in competitions over the three-day event. The powwow also featured Native American foods, crafts, and jewelry.
Other communities across the United States hosted powwows in May. The Native American Family and Friends of Western Pennsylvania held their very first powwow over Mother’s Day weekend. Members of the group are from the Cherokee, Shawnee, and Lenape tribes. Their powwow featured dancing and drums as well as crafts and storytelling. On Sunday, they honored all mothers who attended. Family and respecting one’s elders are very important to Native American cultures. Over the Memorial Day weekend, a powwow in Riverside, California, had a special “Honoring Our Warriors” theme to pay tribute to Native Americans and others who have served in the U.S. armed forces. Throughout the summer, there will be many more powwows to look forward to.
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