Celebrate Life at the Annual Cherokee Powwow

Dancers, drummers, and singers from different nations come together each year to share their talents at the Annual 4th of July Powwow. Hundreds of competitors of all ages, from Tiny Tots (five and under) to the Golden Age (55 and older), dance alongside enrolled tribal members from across the states. 

Cost is $15 daily. Please note that this event is cash only. Children 6 and under are free. For more details on this year's Cherokee Powwow, please visit our events calendar.

One of the Biggest and Best

The Cherokee Powwow attracts people from all around the world, and is considered one of the biggest and best powwows in the country. This three day-event features dynamic dancing and drumming competitions, tribal regalia, crafts, food, and fireworks. Set against a lush mountain backdrop, dancers will compete for over $150,000 in prize money in categories including Traditional, Jingle, Grass, Chicken, Cloth, Buckskin, and Fancy— one of the most exciting competitions to watch, as dancers perform at dizzying speeds. 

The Grand Entry

Don't miss the Grand Entry, when all the dancers come into the arena together and dance for points. As many as 500 dancers may partake, seeking attention from the judges and putting on a spectacular display. 

What to Expect

"The Cherokee Powwow is a celebration of life," says organizer Daniel Tramper. "When you're here, you're home."

People from many different nations travel long distances every year to spend time with natives from all across the states. And then there's the spirit of the drum, which not only keeps the beat for the dancers, but acts as the heartbeat for the event. It's a powerful experience, unlike anything else. 

On theme with the holiday weekend, you can also expect to see one of the best fireworks displays in Western North Carolina.

Native Crafts and Food

Take home a piece of the powwow and shop traditional crafts ofrom various nations. The one-of-a-kind crafts include pottery, beadwork, weaving, and carving, as well as bone and shell work. An array of food vendors will also be on site serving up crowd-pleasing fare, including some favorite local Cherokee food vendors.

Everyone is invited to the Cherokee Powwow to hear, watch, enjoy, and learn about Native American cultures in the beautiful Smoky Mountains of North Carolina. We hope you will join us!

Tentative Schedule

The Cherokee Powwow is a multi-day competition and the schedule of events will vary each year. Please refer to our current events calendar for this year's July dates.

Location

Cherokee Acquoni Expo Center 

1501 Acquoni Rd.
Cherokee, NC 28719

Contact: Daniel Tramper
Phone: 828.497.7128
Email: dtramper@gmail.com