MASHPEE – The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe will host their 98th Annual Powwow this weekend.
The Powwow is an event that celebrates the heritage and culture of the tribe and features three days of solemn, spiritual, and festive activities.
Highlights of the event include Traditional Dance, Traditional Drumming, the exciting Warwick Gombey Dancers from Bermuda, foods prepared by all Mashpee Wampanoag Tribal vendors, as well as craft stands operated by Native Peoples from across the country.
“People can expect a very home like atmosphere, a very welcoming atmosphere,” said Tribal Council Co-Liaison, Brian Weeden.
“This is chance for us to showcase our beautiful culture and traditions that we have passed down from generation to generation.”
Visitors will have a chance to participate in Inter-Tribal dances and Eastern Social musical performances.
Dance competitors in all categories will be eligible for cash prizes.
A traditional ceremonial game of Fire Ball will be played by men of the tribe on Saturday night.
Each player partaking in the game plays for loved ones that are hurt, or for someone who has passed on.
On Sunday the crowning of the “Mashpee Wampanoag Powwow Princess 2019-2020´, and “Little Miss Wampanoag” will take place, as well as a Mashpee-style Clam Bake.
“We have our Powwow Princes crowning on Sunday which is a main attraction and we will also be having our Little Miss Wampanoag pageant on Sunday as well as our traditional Clam Bake on Sunday,” said Weeden.
The event starts July 5th and wraps up Sunday July 7th at the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribal Powwow Grounds, located at 483 Great Neck Road-South in Mashpee.
Gates open daily at 10 a.m.; Grand Entry procession at 1 p.m.
Admission for the general public is $12, for children under 12 years old and senior’s ages 62 years plus admission is $10, Children five years and younger get in for free.
Parking is also free.
Tickets can be purchased through the weekend.
By: LUKE LEITNER, CapeCod.com News Center
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