2018 Sault Tribe Traditional Powwow and Summer Gathering
Tribe holds 37th annual powwow July 13‑15 in the Soo
Community invited to exciting family friendly event
SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. —The Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians invites the community and public to its 37th annual Traditional Powwow and Summer Gathering July 13 through 15 at its powwow grounds off of Shunk Road in Sault Ste. Marie. Admission is free and open to the public. Join us for a family friendly event with drumming and dancing, Native food and craft vendors, a kids’ carnival, traditional feast and more.
Festivities begin Friday, July 13, with a kids’ carnival from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and open drumming and dancing at 7 p.m. On Saturday, July 14, grand entries are 1 and 7 p.m. with a free traditional feast at 5 p.m. and a hand drum contest at 6 p.m. Grand entry on Sunday, July 15, is at noon. This year’s celebration will feature singing and dance specials throughout the weekend in addition to jackpot spot dances and more fun.
Prior to the powwow, a spiritual gathering will take place on July 12 starting at sunrise.
The powwow theme this year is Miinaadendimowin Anishinaabe Bimaadiziwin Bawaating, “Respecting our way of life at Sault Ste. Marie.” Head Ogichidaa is Cecil Pavlat, Head Drum Judge is Justin Perrault Sr., Head Male Dance Judge is Ray Cadotte and Head Female Dance Judge is Julie Whitepigeon. Emcees are Jody Gaskin and Joe Medicine, and Arena Director is Bud Biron. No drugs or alcohol are allowed.
Camping is available on a first-come, first-served basis, with showers and restrooms available on site. Kewadin Casino and Convention Center, (800) 539-2346, is host hotel. For information about drums, dancers, vendors or the spiritual gathering, please call Sault Tribe Cultural Department at (906) 635-6050.
Powwow apparel is for sale by special order. See www.saulttribe.com for details.