Powwow celebrates Native American tradition

The Prairie Island Indian Community is host to the annual Dakota Singing and Dancing Championship Wacipi Celebration Friday through Sunday on the outdoor powwow grounds adjacent to Treasure Island Resort & Casino.

The public is invited to join in the celebration, free of charge, and experience Native American history and traditions.

Each session begins with a grand entry performance; they are scheduled at 7 p.m. Friday, 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, and 1 p.m. Sunday.

“Grand entry is a time to honor veterans and announce the different styles of dancers,” spokesmen said.

The event, which also is a competition, will feature traditional dancers, grass dancers, fancy bustle dancers, northern and southern buckskin dancers, northern and southern cloth dancers, jingle dress dancers and fancy shawl dancers.

They will perform to the music of drummers from all around the United States and Canada. Prairie Island Singers are the host drum, and Prairie Island Takojas are junior host. Eight other drums have been invited.

The wacipi celebration also offers Native American food and crafts.

For more information call 800-554-5473 or go online to the website www.prairieisland.org.

Tags: red wing, prairie island, communities