Cherokee Blog

Seven miles outside of downtown Cherokee is Kituwah, the original Cherokee settlement, also known as the “Cherokee Mother Town.” Kituwah is considered by all three of the federally recognized Cherokee tribes as the place of origin for the Cherokee people. Archeologists date the site back to nearly 10,000 years ago. Kituwah Mound was the center of the village, according to Cherokee legend. Originally, the mound was 15 to 20 feet tall, and one of the places of the “eternal flame.” Experience it for yourself at two upcoming run/walk events: the Mother's Day 5K and the Turkey Trot.

(Artist, Suzi Nonn of Naturally Yours)

In 2002, beloved gourd artist Jerry Lewis of California founded the first Gourd Gathering in Cherokee, NC, as an opportunity for fellow craftspeople to meet and share their methods. Over the years, it became known as a “reunion” among guests. When Jerry passed away, new coordinators stepped up to ensure that the event carried on and was successful.

Today, the annual Gourd Gathering at Cherokee continues to bring people from all over the country together. The next event will take place Thursday through Sunday, June 1–4, 2017. Entry is free, while classes vary in costs.

Artists and enthusiasts alike may see gourds in a whole new light. Gourd artists meet for four days to exchange ideas...

More than a dozen acclaimed musicians from all over the world will converge in Cherokee, North Carolina, June 8–10 for the 2017 Cherokee Bluegrass Festival. It won’t just be adults having all the fun. Children are also encouraged to attend.

The sound of Mother Earth’s heartbeat, the drum is a powerful instrument in Native American rituals and ceremonies. Rhythmic beats provide the soundtrack for the 42nd annual 4th of July Powwow in Cherokee, which runs Friday through Sunday, June 30 through July 2, in Cherokee, NC.

Every member of the family can plan on having a good time at the Cherokee Indian Fair Tuesday, October 3, through Saturday, October 7, 2017. It’s an event that combines the familiar joy of carnival rides and games that adults may remember experiencing from their childhood, along with traditional Cherokee stickball games, crafts, and food vendors.