HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – People from across the entire country are expected to gather at the Trail of Tears Commemorative Park in Hopkinsville for the 37th Annual Trail of Tears Pow Wow. The historical park is the first certified site along the trail and carries significant meaning for Native Americans.
“The Pow Wow is an educational experience not often afforded in this area for visitors. For the participants, this is an opportunity to celebrate Native American culture through dance, drumming and singing, food, and art,” said Tommy Lopez with the Trail of Tears in Hopkinsville.
The Pow Wow will take place Sept. 7-8 with grand entry at 1 p.m. both days. The goal of the event is to educate people about Native American culture and heritage. Traditional dancers will compete, with the South Side and Rattlesnake Mountain drumming groups also performing. Flute playing and storytelling will take place that evening.
“These traditions and dances are sacred so we would like to ask all visitors and vendors to please respect the grounds and participants as they enjoy the Pow Wow experience,” said Lopez. “We will also have some Native American displays set up with people present to answer questions involving Native American history and culture.”
Local and Native American vendors will be on site with foods like fry bread, Indian tacos, and buffalo burgers. The Heritage Center in the park will provide crafts and facepainting for kids. Admission is $10 per adult and $5 per child, ages six and under are free.
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