48th Annual Nanticoke Indian Powwow Returns to Hudson Fields
The Nanticoke Indian Tribe proudly presents its 48th Annual Powwow at Hudson Fields on September 12 & 13, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The two-day weekend event is a unique opportunity to celebrate the Nanticoke’s proud heritage and to learn about their customs. With sponsorships from multiple organizations across the state, the event attracts tribes from across the Eastern seaboard and is attended by an estimated 30,000 visitors. The annual tradition allows the broader community to experience the culture and proud traditions of the Nanticoke.
Upon discovery by early European settlers in the 1600s, the Nanticoke, which translates to Tidewater People, lived in seasonal villages. Today, the Nanticoke Indian Association owns the Nanticoke Indian Center and Nanticoke Indian Museum, which opened in 1984 to facilitate the exhibition of Native American Heritage.
While the term Powwow refers to any gathering of native people, is it also a venerated cultural event featuring traditional Native American song and dance. Powwow drummers and singers, who rhythmically repeat key phrases, provide the music to which dancers perform in ceremonial dress. Native American dance is a dynamic reflection of tribal heritage, a living, cultural art form based in ancient tradition. The Master of Ceremonies or Emcee guides both dancers and spectators, advancing the performance while explaining the various traditions. The Grand Entry or procession of dancers depicts the “bringing together of the tribes,” while a male and female dancer follow the presentation of the flags honoring traditional native, state and American Flags, during which visitors stand. Through such gatherings, traditions are passed down from generation to generation.
Hosted by Arena Director, Chief Urdie Ridgeway and Emceed by Keith Colston, head dancers include Adrienne Harmon and Louis Campbell, with Host Drums by Red Blanket of New Jersey and Stoney Creek of North Carolina. The Grand Entry commences at 12 noon. Additional event festivities include daily dance lessons, prizes, a Street Rod Car Show on Saturday, September 12 and a Church Service on Sunday, September 13 at 9 a.m.
This program is supported by a grant from the Delaware Division of the Arts, in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs. Entry fees apply: Adults: $10, Ages 11-17: $5, children 10 and under attend free with adult supervision. For more information: Events – Nanticoke Indian Tribe
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