Wildcat Pow Wow U of AZ April 11 2008



First, sorry for the delay between posts. I was in New Orleans last week, so photos of that are next.

The U of AZ Wildcat Pow Wow was spectacular again this year. I did not use the flash on my camera because I did not want to bother the dancers, so some of my pics are a little fuzzy. You can never take photographs during religious dances, like the Gourd Dance, but it's okay to take them while the dancers are competing. Notice the numbers pinned on the clothing.


A pow wow is a family affair. It's so refreshing to see multiple generations dancing together from Golden Age 50+, Adults 18-49, Teens 13-17, Juniors 7-12, to Tiny Tots. People arrive early with folding chairs, portable shade canopies, and coolers full of food. To begin, there is a Grand Entry headed by the US flag and an Eagle staff held by champion fancy dancers. Next in the Grand Entry come the honored Veterans, elders, and those holding titles such as Miss Native American U of AZ. After these groups, all of the dancers enter from the Golden Agers down to the Tiny Tots. Some of the dances are called "Jingle dance," "Grass dance," and "Traditional."

We ate Fry Bread at the pow wow (every nation has some form of fried dough, like the beignets in New Orleans) which can be eaten plain or with honey or with meat.

I cannot describe the drumming and singing; you just have to hear it for yourself. All I can say is that it's good for your soul.

One of the most important things to know is the EVERYONE IS WELCOME at a pow wow. Besides watching the dancers and eating the food, there are many vendors selling handmade jewelry, clothing, and music CDs. The admission is reasonable enough to bring the home family. For more info:http://www.wildcatpowwow.bravehost.com/

Comments

allyssabaker said…
lovin them boots!<3
A.Baker*23..xXox
Tepary said…
Your pictures are tremendous. I'm not in Tucson this year for the first Spring in 20 years. It is lovely to see these shots.

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