What to Expect at the National Powwow in Danville Indiana
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National Powwow is one of the biggest events celebrating American Indian culture anywhere, drawing people from across the country to Hendricks County, Indiana.
With hundreds of dancers and four days packed with activities, no one with an interest in this culture or powwows in general will want to miss this massive event July 9-12 at the Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds in Danville.
What is a Powwow?
The National Powwow began in 1969 and is held every three years. Its mission is to respectfully share in the values of American Indian culture by educating and increasing awareness of American Indian traditions among the non-Indian community with the support and guidance of Indian people.
The event brings singers, dancers, craftsmen and historians to Danville. They will bring their community's shared knowledge to promote awareness and education about American Indian culture.
National Powwow XIX
The four-day event of National Powwow XIX introduces visitors to a cultural experience filled with traditional singing and dancers in full regalia, primitive skills demonstrations, a living history tipi village, crafts, artisans, kids’ activities and so much more. Organizers expect about 45 vendors at the event, whose wares will include American Indian jewelry, musical instruments and arts and crafts.
Gates open at 8:30 a.m. daily. A full schedule of festivities continues throughout all four days, transforming the 110-acre fairgrounds into an American Indian experience with something of interest for everyone in the family. Daily activities include educational seminars focusing on tribal customs and history, and various craft instruction.
Regalia
One of the first things you will notice is the elaborate regalia worn by American Indians representing many different tribes. Admire the intricate beadwork, colorful feathers and elaborate headdresses.
Out of respect, however, understand that American Indian clothing is not a costume, but rather historical regalia that is symbolic and worn with great pride. As such, attendees should not touch a dancer's regalia but should feel free to ask questions and learn the significance of their tribal attire.
Activities
Some of the activities to look forward to at National Powwow XIX include intertribal singing and dancing (July 9-11 at 7 p.m. and July 12 at 1 p.m.), a special dance to honor Veterans on July 10, a national craft contest and kids powwow on July 11, the crowning of the National Powwow princess and many other interactive activities designed to educate and entertain visitors.
The Indiana Raptor Center will have a Birds of Prey presentation during the event, too! For more updates, including a full schedule of events as the dates draw nearer, be sure to follow National Powwow on Facebook.
Admission & Parking
Admission is $10 per day for adults, $7 for youth ages 6-12, and children under 5 get in free. A four-day pass is $30 for adults and $20 for youth 6-12. Parking is $4 per car, with a donation going to the Danville Scout Troop.
Be sure to bring some money for the food and arts and crafts vendors, too! Three years ago, the National Powwow attracted more than 500 participants and 2,000 visitors to Hendricks County, so National Powwow XIX will be the place to be from July 9-12.
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