Lower Eastern Cherokee Nation to host 18th annual powwow Sept. 26 in Gray Court

The Lower Eastern Cherokee Nation of South Carolina will host its 18th annual powwow on Saturday, Sept. 26, at the tribal grounds in Gray Court. This year’s gathering also marks 11 years since the tribe received state recognition, and the event is open to the public.

Event details

The powwow will be held at the Lower Eastern Cherokee Nation Tribal Grounds, 3688 Warrior Creek Church Road, Gray Court, about 15 minutes from downtown Laurens. Gates open at 9:30 a.m., with Grand Entries at 11:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. The event wraps up at 5:15 p.m. and will take place rain or shine.

Admission is $10 for adults and $4 for children ages 3 to 17. Children 2 and younger and veterans get in free. Children must be supervised at all times.

The day will feature drumming, dancing, storytelling and handmade crafts, along with fry bread and food from J&S Concessions. A Luck of the Draw dance contest is also planned, and participants must be in regalia to compete.

David Spirit Walker will serve as master of ceremonies, with Bad Boyz as the host drum. Scott Alexander is head man dancer, Kimberly Knightbird is head lady dancer and Freddy Fielder is arena director. Dale Woodruff will provide entertainment, and Mark Two Blades will serve as fire keeper.

The event is sponsored by the South Carolina Commission for Minority Affairs.

Powwow etiquette for first-time guests

Tribal leaders describe the powwow as a gathering where everyone is welcome and as one of the best ways to experience Native American culture in person. Guests who are unsure about any procedure are encouraged to ask the emcee, the arena director or the head dancers, who are happy to answer questions.

Guests are asked to stand during special songs, including the Grand Entry, flag songs, veterans songs and any other song the emcee announces. Men should remove their hats during these songs.

Some tribes consider pointing with a finger to be impolite. Visitors who need to indicate a direction are encouraged to nod toward it instead.

Photographers should ask permission before photographing dancers in regalia and should explain beforehand if the image will be published or used commercially. Photographs of the sacred fire are never allowed.

The clothing dancers wear is called regalia, not a costume, and it should never be touched. Many of the pieces carry religious significance and are treasured family heirlooms.

Respecting the Circle

At the center of every powwow is the Circle, which holds sacred meaning in Native American tradition. It represents an endless world in which time flows freely and all people stand as equals. Guests should never cut across the dance area, pass through a drum group’s space or otherwise break the Circle. Instead, visitors are asked to walk around it.

What to bring and what to leave home

Visitors should bring their own chairs, since seating for the public is limited. Folding chairs placed under the tents are set aside for elders, dignitaries and dancers.

Alcohol, drugs and pets are not permitted. A designated smoking area will be available.

Like most powwows, the gathering is a nonprofit event that relies on donations and raffle sales. Donations can be made at the tribal craft booth, and purchasing raffle tickets is another way to support the tribe.

Don’t miss the food

Organizers recommend the Native taco, sometimes called an Indian taco, which starts with fry bread topped with chili and a choice of lettuce, tomato, onion and sour cream. A sweet version topped with powdered sugar, honey or both is also available. New this year, fresh lemonade will be served to help guests stay cool.

Getting there

Visitors can reach the grounds from Interstate 385 by taking Exit 10 and following the signs. From Interstate 26 East, take Exit 41 toward Enoree. Travelers on U.S. 221 should turn onto Metric Road and follow the signs.

For more information, contact Scott Gephart at 423-494-4255 or [email protected].