Pechanga Pow Wow: A Celebration of Native American Culture, Life

Photos and article by Patch contributor Charles Mckee

People from around the country flocked to Temecula this weekend to help celebrate and embrace Native American Culture at Pechanga’s 18th annual Pow Wow. 

Pechanga Pow Wow Director Randy Pico said that around 1,000 dancers preformed and more than 60,000 people attended the event over the weekend.

"The Pechanga Pow Wow just represents the spirit of the Pechanga people, very generous, reaching out, sharing with the community,” Pico said. 

Ciara Green, Pechanga’s public relations manager, noted that only New Year's Eve draws more people to the resort and casino. 

Japanese exchange students Hide Kato and Ayano Shimizu were both amazed by the dances and authentic Native American dress.

“I am so fortunate to experience this event," Kato said. “The pageantry and splendor of the dancing is very amazing."

Various vendors from around the southwestern United States were selling art, crafts and food that represent Native American culture. For those who wanted to beat the heat, there was always the Casino. 

One of the highlights of the weekend was the spectacular fireworks show on Saturday night. The awards ceremony at 5 p.m. Sunday concluded this year's Pow Wow, though another fireworks show is planned July 6.

If you missed this year's Pow Wow due to the heat or any other reason, be sure to mark it on your calendar as a “must see” for next year.