77th Annual Shinnecock Indian Powwow Takes Place Labor Day Weekend

SOUTHAMPTON, NY — The 77th Annual Shinnecock Indian Powwow unfolds over Labor Day weekend in Southampton, featuring Native arts, crafts, and food — and an event steeped in tradition.

The event takes place at the Shinnecock Reservation, located at Church Street in Southampton. Gates open Friday at 3 p.m., and at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. The grand entry will be held at 7 p.m. on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday and at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.

A sunset fire lighting will also take place on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The Powwow also features drum and dance contests and dance specials, with more than $50,000 in prize money.

"The Shinnecock Indian Powwow is one of the largest Native American gatherings on the East Coast," organizers said. "As we dance upon the earth, we are reminded that our culture and love for one another is the resounding heartbeat that transcends all that we face; wherever we face it. We dance upon our drum. The sound of the drum and our footsteps are recorded year after year within the drum that we dance upon. We may be the only Nation that dances upon its drum."

And, organizers added: " The trees that surround our circle also record our Powwow historical moments within their barks as they grow with the People. We dance with all of our relations, past and present, from nearby and from afar. We welcome home our distant families as well as our guests with open arms and prayers as we share ourselves, our culture, arts and crafts, good food and our ceremonies during each Labor Day weekend."

Every day, competitive dancing, guest entertainment, prayers, ceremonial dances, and the acknowledgement of sponsors and visiting dignitaries will take place.

"We honor our veterans for protecting this life as we know it," organizers said.

In addition, 100 Native American arts, crafts and food vendors from all over the Americas will be onhand. "Cultural enrichment and the opportunity for cultural education abounds as Native American representatives from every region are available to demonstrate and share their stories to all who ask," organizers said. "This celebration of tradition has been fostered by our community leaders and the Shinnecock Church, to whom we are forever grateful. Each year, as we fill ourselves with the excitement of the upcoming Powwow celebration, we are reminded of the other things we are thankful for. We thank our patrons for joining us each year. May your way continue to be beautiful."

Tickets cost $20 for adults and $10 for seniors, children and those with military ID; children under 5 are free.

For additional information, click here.