The Delaware of the Thames First Nation at Moraviantown will be full of dancing and drumming this long weekend.
Eelünaapéewi Lahkéewiit is hosting its 51st annual Pow-Wow on Saturday, September 2 and Sunday, September 3.
"Hoping everyone can come out to celebrate with us, through dancing with us, listening to some songs, and celebrating Eelünaapéewi culture," said organizer Sherry Huff. "Our Pow Wow is always a homecoming for community members who live far away, so it's good to see folks again. It's also an opportunity to meet new friends, people who want to come out and learn more about our Eelünaapéewi heritage, culture, and way of life."
The Grand Entry is on Saturday at noon and 7 p.m. and on Sunday at noon, and Huff said everyone is invited to come and get involved.
"If you're coming out this weekend and you want to try out some of the dancing, just listen for the MC to call an inter-tribal dance, 'cause that means all-inclusive. Get up there and dance," said Huff. "It's going to be a lot of fun this weekend."
They will also be crowning Miss Moraviantown after a hiatus during the pandemic, plus there is a baby contest for the cutest baby dressed up in homemade regalia.
The drum competition can also get very competitive with cash prizes up to $5,000 up for grabs.
"We have a grand entry of all the dancers coming in led by the Eagle staff and our veterans, so that will start the competition," said Huff. "There are multiple competitions for every age. There's also drumming competitions where each drum group competes with the other to be the best drum group for the weekend."
But Huff adds that there is more than just dancing and drumming.
"There are more than 40 different food stands and craft vendors this year, so we've got lots of things to satisfy every need," said Huff. "We've got traditional foods on sale, we've got Indian tacos, we've got beautiful crafts designed by artists from our community and the surrounding community."
Admission is $8, $5 for seniors, and kids 10 and under are free.