SOUTHAMPTON, N.Y. — The 77th annual Shinnecock Indian Powwow unfolds Labor Day weekend in Southampton, featuring local arts, crafts and food — and an event steeped in tradition.
The event is held at the Shinnecock Reservation, located on Church Street in Southampton. Gates open Friday at 3pm. and at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sunday and Monday. The large participation will take place at 7 pm. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday and at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sunday and Monday.
Fire at sunset will also take place on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The Powwow also features drum and dance competitions and dance specials, with more than $50,000 in prize money.
“The Shinnecock Indian Powwow is one of the largest gatherings of Native Americans on the East Coast,” organizers said. “As we dance on earth, we are reminded that our culture and love for one another is the resounding heartbeat that transcends all we face; wherever we face it. We dance to our own drum. The sound of our drum and our steps they are recorded year after year in the drum we dance to. We may be the only nation that dances to its own drum.”
And, organizers added, “The trees that surround our circle also record our historic Powwow moments within their bark as they grow with people. We dance with all our relationships, past and present, near and far. Welcome to home to distant families as well as our guests with open arms and prayers as we share ourselves, our culture, our arts and crafts, our good food and our ceremonies during each Labor Day weekend.”
Each day will feature competitive dances, guest entertainment, prayers, ceremonial dances and recognition of sponsors and visiting dignitaries.
“We honor our veterans who protect this life as we know it,” organizers said.
Additionally, 100 Native American arts, crafts and food vendors from across America will be on hand. “Cultural enrichment and the opportunity for cultural education abound as Native American representatives from each region are available to demonstrate and share their stories with all who ask,” organizers said. “This celebration of tradition has been supported by our community leaders and Shinnecock Church, to whom we are forever grateful. Each year, as we fill with the excitement of the upcoming Powwow celebration, we are reminded of the other things we are thankful for. Thank you patrons to us who come with us every year. May your path continue to be beautiful.”
Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for seniors, children and those with military ID. children under 5 are free.
