5 Events To Experience Native American Culture

Throughout Turtle Island, the indigenous landmass that spans North America, five remarkable annual events unite hundreds of participants and spectators in a vibrant celebration of Native American culture. These gatherings offer a unique blend of music, artistry, athleticism, and friendly competition, showcasing the multifaceted beauty of Indigenous traditions.

Gathering of Nations Pow Wow

Gathering of Nations Pow Wow in Albuquerque New Mexico attracts over 40,000 spectators and over 2000 pow-wow dancers and singers every April. The event includes a large market area where artisans sell their crafts and traditional food. Stage 49 showcases musicians throughout Canada and the United States at Pow-wow Alley.

http://www.gatheringofnations.com/

Indigenous Music Awards

Indigenous Music Awards in Winnipeg Manitoba. The award show attracts Indigenous Musicians across Canada, the United States, and all over the world. 14 prestigious music awards are given out that are juried by musicians and the music industry.

Best Blues Album
Best country album
Best Folk Album
Best Inuit, Indigenous Language, or Francophone
Best Instrumental
Beat Pop Album
Best Rap/Hip Hop Album
Best Rock Album
Best New Artist
Best Radio Single
Best Music Video
Best Producer/Engineer
Best International Indigenous Release
Best Radio Station Program
Best Hand Drum
Best Peyote
Best pow Wow Contemporary
Best pow Wow Traditional
Indigenous Music
Lifetime Achievement Award

https://www.indigenousmusicawards.com/

World Hoop Dancing Competition

World Hoop Dancing Competition Phoenix Arizona. In mid-February hoop dancers from across Canada and the United States compete for the prestigious title of World Champion Hoop Dancer. Dancers are judged on a slate of five skills: precision, timing/rhythm, showmanship, creativeness, and speed. The competitors must have stamina, creative choreography, and athleticism.

http://heard.org/news/27th-annual-hoop-dance-contest-winner/

World Eskimo and Indian Olympics

World Eskimo and Indian Olympics Fairbanks Alaska held in July. The games that people enter for the competition are based on survival skills based on the extreme weather and terrain conditions in the north. Photo provided by Jennifer Flett blanket toss.

http://www.weio.org/

North American Indigenous Games

North American Indigenous games – To improve the quality of life for Indigenous Peoples by supporting self-determined sports and cultural activities that encourage equal access to participation in the social/cultural/spiritual fabric of the community in which they reside and which respects Indigenous distinctiveness.

3-D Archery
Athletics
Badminton
Baseball (Male)
Basketball
Box Lacrosse
Canoe/Kayak
Golf
Rifle Shooting
Softball
Swimming
Volleyball
Wrestling

http://naigcouncil.com/