SANTA YNEZ BAND OF CHUMASH INDIANS TO HOST 24TH ANNUAL INTER-TRIBAL POW-WOW AT LIVE OAK CAMPGROUND
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Veronica Sandoval
(805) 688-7997
vsandoval@sychumashfoundation.org
SANTA YNEZ, CA — September 23, 2019 — Dancing, singing and drumming will be on display as Native American tribes from throughout North America celebrate their heritage during the 24th annual Chumash Inter-Tribal Pow-Wow at Live Oak Campground in Santa Ynez. The two-day gathering will be held on Saturday, Oct. 5 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 6 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
A gourd dance at noon, followed by a grand entry at 1 p.m., will mark the start each day of the pow-wow, which is the largest cultural event of the year held by the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians.
“Our tribe takes a lot of pride in hosting this annual event,” said Kenneth Kahn, Tribal Chairman for the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. “It’s a time for tribes from across the U.S. and Canada to come together, celebrate our heritage and share elements of our culture with members of the public who would like to learn more about our traditions.”
The Chumash Inter-Tribal Pow-Wow attracts members of tribal nations from throughout North America to participate in dancing and drumming competitions. Dancing categories range in age from 70 years and older to “Tiny Tots” and include styles such as traditional, straight, fancy, grass, jingle dress, buckskin, cloth and chicken. More than $50,000 in prize money will be offered. The event will also feature of informational booths, Native American arts and crafts and food booths.
The pow-wow is an annual effort of a committee of Chumash tribal volunteers who plan, organize and operate the two-day event. The committee’s goal is to provide the community with educational and cultural experiences focusing on Native American music, arts and customs while also promoting native self-reliance and pride.
The Chumash Inter-Tribal Pow-Wow is a zero-waste event. Guests are encouraged to bring their own reusable water bottles, support the event’s green vendors and dispose of trash in the proper receptacle bins.
Live Oak Campground is located at 4650 Highway 154 in Santa Ynez. Admission is free. Parking costs $5. The camping fee is $35. For more information on the pow-wow, call (805) 688-7997 or visit santaynezchumash.org/powwow.html.