Taos Pueblo announces July powwow details

The three-day event, themed "Creating Connections Between Youth & Elders," will feature dance and drum competitions, vendors, food and handgames. Festivities begin Friday, July 11, with a Gourd Dance at 2 p.m. and the first Grand Entry at 7 p.m. On Saturday, grand entries are scheduled for 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. The final Grand Entry is Sunday at 1 p.m.

The event’s head staff includes:

• Masters of Ceremonies: James Edwards (Pawnee) and Leslie Trujillo (Taos Pueblo)
• Arena Director: Corey Reeder (Wichita/Cheyenne/Kiowa/Diné)
• Headman: Ronnie Lodgepole (Chippewa Cree)
• Head Lady: Ontarra Arrow White (Lemhi Shoshone)
• Southern Drum: Big Thunder of Comanche, Okla.
• Northern Drum: Bad Canyon of Wellpinit, Wash.

Dance categories are open for all ages, from Tiny Tots to the Golden Age division for dancers 60 and older. Competitions include Northern Traditional, Southern Straight, Grass/Chicken, Fancy, Northern Buckskin, Southern Cloth and Jingle.

No drugs, alcohol or firearms are permitted. Camping and RV spaces are available without hookups.

For more information, contact the Taos Pueblo Tourism Office at 575-758-1028. For vending inquiries, call 505-376-3702 or email taospowwow@gmail.com. Handgame information is available from Samuel J. Smith III at 575-770-2890.