Powwow Fever

Summertime isn’t just for sun worshippers at the lake it’s dance time. Many American Indian groups, student organizations and tribes hold their signature events during key vacation months, drawing competitive dancers and arts/crafts vendors as well as crowds. The Kaw Nation Powwow runs Aug. 3-5 at Washunga Bay Powwow Grounds in Kaw City. During the same weekend, Concho Powwow Grounds hosts the Oklahoma Indian Nations Powwow, where you’ll also find a hand games tournament, a buffalo chili cook-off and more. The Intertribal Indian Club of Tulsa’s 35th annual Powwow of Champions will be Aug. 17-19 at the Mabee Center this year. The following weekend (Aug. 23-26), the 136th Annual Ponca Powwow gets underway at White Eagle near Ponca City. Also check out the Cherokee National Holiday, Aug. 31-Sept. 2, for activities that include a parade, car show and, yes, a powwow.