A Vibrant Celebration of Native American Culture Takes Center Stage in Washington D.C.
The air crackles with anticipation. Drums beat a rhythm that resonates deep within the soul. Vivid colors swirl in a kaleidoscope of motion. This is the scene anticipated at the Largest Pow Wow on the East Coast Aug. 10 – 12, a spectacular three-day event hosted by the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI) in the heart of Washington D.C. Tens of thousands are expected to converge, drawn by the magnetic pull of Native American dance, artistry, and cultural expression. This immersive experience offers a rare opportunity to witness the beauty and resilience of indigenous traditions, and promises an unforgettable experience for all who attend.
A Cultural Tapestry Unfolds at the Verizon Center
From August 10th to 12th, the Verizon Center in downtown Washington D.C. will transform into a vibrant hub of Native American culture. Running daily from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., the Largest Pow Wow on the East Coast Aug. 10 – 12 is far more than just an event; it’s a living testament to the enduring spirit of indigenous communities from across the continent. This grand gathering is hosted by the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian, and provides a platform for sharing, celebrating, and educating about Native American heritage.
A Dance Competition of Unparalleled Scale
One of the most captivating aspects of the National Powwow is the dance competition. Hundreds of dancers, representing numerous tribal nations, will showcase their skills and artistry in a dazzling display of regalia and movement. These are not mere performances; they are expressions of identity, history, and connection to the land. Each step, each gesture, each carefully crafted piece of clothing tells a story. The dancers, adorned in feathers, beads, and intricate designs, move with grace and power, their feet keeping time with the rhythmic pulse of the drums. Over $125,000 in prize money awaits the top performers, adding an element of competition to the already electrifying atmosphere.
Artisans and Vendors: A Showcase of Native Creativity
Beyond the dance arena, the Largest Pow Wow on the East Coast Aug. 10 – 12 provides a platform for Native American artists and artisans to display and sell their creations. Approximately 100 selected individuals will present a stunning array of fine art, jewelry, sculpture, pottery, and other handcrafted items. These pieces are not simply commodities; they are tangible expressions of cultural heritage, skill, and artistic vision. From intricate beadwork to stunning silver jewelry, from powerful sculptures to delicate pottery, the marketplace is a treasure trove of authentic Native American art. This provides a unique opportunity for attendees to acquire beautiful and meaningful pieces while supporting Native American artists and their communities.
Honoring Warriors: Past and Present
The Largest Pow Wow on the East Coast Aug. 10 – 12 held a special significance with its dedication to honoring Native American warriors, both past and present. This tribute recognized the sacrifices and contributions of Native people who have served in the United States military. The event featured special guests, presentations, and dances that celebrated the warrior spirit.
One particularly moving element was the presence of the Kiowa War Mothers from Oklahoma. These women, who have had family members serve in the military or die in war, wore feather war bonnets, a symbol of great honor and respect. Their presence served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by Native American families in defense of the nation.
The powwow also honored specific individuals, including John Bennett Herrington, a Chickasaw and retired U.S. Navy commander who was the first American Indian in space. The late Ira H. Hayes, a Pima Marine immortalized in the iconic photograph of the flag raising on Iwo Jima, was also recognized for his service. Hayes’ story was later portrayed by actor Adam Beach in the film "Flags of Our Fathers."
Educational Exhibits and Cultural Immersion
The National Powwow extends beyond performance and commerce, offering educational opportunities for attendees to deepen their understanding of Native American history and culture. The NMAI’s traveling exhibit, "Native Words, Native Warriors," was on display, highlighting the crucial role played by Native code talkers during World War II. These individuals, primarily from the Navajo, Sac and Fox, and other tribal nations, used their native languages to create unbreakable codes that were instrumental in Allied victories. The exhibit sheds light on this often-overlooked aspect of Native American history and the vital contributions of these unsung heroes.
Adding to the educational component, the museum’s exhibition of Native women’s dresses, titled "Identity by Design," offered insights into the cultural significance and artistry of traditional Native American clothing. These dresses are not merely garments; they are powerful expressions of identity, status, and cultural affiliation. The intricate designs, materials, and construction techniques reflect the unique traditions and artistic skills of various tribal nations.
Recognizing the importance of connecting the powwow experience with the resources of the museum, organizers provided a free shuttle service between the Verizon Center and the NMAI. This allowed attendees to seamlessly move between the vibrant atmosphere of the powwow and the enriching exhibits of the museum.
A Tradition Revived and Expanded
This event marked the third National Powwow to be held in Washington D.C. The first, held on the National Mall in 2002, was a landmark event that many elders never thought they would witness in their lifetime. The opportunity to dance in front of the U.S. Capitol building was a deeply meaningful experience for many participants, creating lasting memories and a sense of pride.
Following the success of the initial event, the 2005 powwow was moved indoors to a larger arena to accommodate the growing crowds. This decision proved to be wise, as attendance exceeded 35,000 people. The move to the Verizon Center, a large-scale sports and entertainment venue, reflected the organizers’ commitment to providing a comfortable and accessible experience for all attendees.
A Unique Opportunity for East Coast Audiences
The Largest Pow Wow on the East Coast Aug. 10 – 12 filled a significant void in the cultural landscape of the region. While large-scale powwows are common in the western United States, they are less frequent on the East Coast. This event provided a unique opportunity for East Coast audiences to experience the richness and diversity of Native American culture firsthand.
The novelty of the event was evident in the enthusiastic response from attendees and vendors alike. Many vendors completely sold out of their merchandise, demonstrating the high demand for authentic Native American products. This success underscored the importance of providing a platform for Native American artists and businesses to connect with a wider audience.
A Diverse Array of Activities and Performances
The National Powwow offered a comprehensive program of activities and performances, catering to a wide range of interests and ages. The dance competitions included categories for golden age, adults, teens, juniors, and tiny tots, ensuring that dancers of all skill levels and ages could participate. The dance styles showcased included Fancy Dance, Traditional, Jingle Dress, and Fancy Shawl, in both Northern and Southern styles.
Three host drum groups, High Noon from Alberta, Canada; Battle River from Minnesota; and Southern Thunder from Oklahoma, provided the musical backdrop for the event. These groups showcased different styles of singing, representing the diverse musical traditions of Native American communities.
In addition to the dance competitions and musical performances, the powwow featured a variety of other activities, including storytelling, demonstrations, and cultural presentations. A North Dakota dance troupe performed in the mornings, and a Montana couple demonstrated the art of tipi painting.
The NMAI also opened its Cultural Resources Center to the public, offering tours and behind-the-scenes glimpses of its collections, conservation efforts, and library. This provided attendees with a unique opportunity to learn about the museum’s work in preserving and promoting Native American culture.
Event Details and Ticket Information
Tickets for the three-day National Powwow were priced at $15 for adults, $12 for seniors and youth aged 5 to 11, and free for children under 5. Tickets could be purchased in advance online or at the door.
The Largest Pow Wow on the East Coast Aug. 10 – 12 was a truly immersive and unforgettable experience, offering a vibrant celebration of Native American culture and a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of indigenous communities. It was an event that left a lasting impression on all who attended, fostering a greater appreciation for the richness and diversity of Native American heritage.