The 52nd annual Delaware Nation at Moraviantown Pow Wow gets underway this weekend.
Councillor Sherry Huff told Mornings with Dave and Cheryl on Country 92.9 FM CFCO all are welcome to the authentic Lunaapeew cultural celebration.
Huff said the Grand Entry is always a highlight and a must see for anyone who’s never been to a pow wow or has never seen the start. The opening ceremony has the Eagle Staff carried into the arena by the head veteran, followed by the community flags, and then the dancers from the oldest to the youngest in each category.
The ceremony will also have the dancers dancing and moving to the drum, as they wind their way around the peace tree in the heart of the arena. Huff said the big drum really gets people going and represents the heart beat of mother earth.
Huff also said it's hard not to be moved by this cultural experience with the Lunaapeew Smoke Dance and a homecoming for a special international guest who now lives in Wisconsin.
"We've got a very famous Fancy Shawl Dancer who is coming home -- Star White Eye Silas. Star is known internationally for her dancing. She's won all kinds of prizes around the world," said Huff.
There will also be several contests including dancing and drumming and a $5,000 prize for best drum.
Food vendors will be selling corn soup, fry bread, Indian tacos, venison burgers, fries, and hot dogs.
Crafts people will be selling their beautiful creations, such as beaded earrings, bracelets, necklaces, leather work, wood work, and preserves.
There's also a local traditional "handpoke tattoo artist" who does clan markings and other native designs.
The Grand Entry is at noon and 7 p.m. on Saturday; then again at noon on Sunday rain or shine.
The pow wow will be held at 14811 School House Line between Thamesville and Bothwell and wraps up on Sunday evening.