HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – The longstanding tradition of the Trail of Tears Pow Wow is set to continue, with thousands of people expected to gather in Hopkinsville on Sept. 6-7 to celebrate Native American culture and dance with the community.
The 38th Annual Pow Wow will take place at the Trail of Tears Commemorative Park in Hopkinsville. According to their website, this area is significant since it is one of the few documented sites of the actual trail and campsites used during the forced removal of the Cherokee people to “Indian Territory”. It was used as an encampment in 1838 and 1839, with this park being the burial site for two Cherokee Chiefs who died during the removal.
Various tribes from across the country will be present for a weekend full of delicious food, beautiful cultural dancing, and vendors. Grand entry will be held on both days at 1 p.m., where the dance and drum competitors lead a procession to kick off the performances. Tiny tot, youth, junior, adult, and golden age competitions will be held with cash prizes distributed. First place for the drum competition will walk away with $3,000.
Signature favorites will be served at the event including fry bread, Indian tacos, and buffalo burgers. The Heritage Center will offer free crafts and face painting for kids, with raffles held every hour throughout the weekend. Flute playing and storytelling will be at 4 p.m. on Saturday.
Gates will open for the Pow Wow on Sept. 6-7 at 10 a.m. each day. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for ages 7–12, and free for kids six and under.
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