‘Gathering of the People Powwow’ returning to Cataract
A vibrant celebration of Indigenous culture, dance and history is returning to northern Owen County later this summer. The community is invited to attend the Gathering of the People Powwow, scheduled to take place Aug. 1 and 2 in Cataract.
The two-day cultural event will open at 10 a.m. both days at 9582 Hi Ridge Trail. Visitors will have multiple opportunities to witness the spectacular Grand Entry, which signifies the official beginning of the dance sessions.
Grand Entries are scheduled for noon and 6 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 1 and at noon on Sunday, Aug. 2. Additionally, a special Glow Dance is slated to take place at dusk on Saturday evening.
The gathering will feature powerful traditional music provided by Host Drum Iron Bear Singers and Co-Host Drum Little Whirlwind. An esteemed lineup of Head Staff will lead the weekend’s proceedings, anchored by Buffalo Child serving as the Master of Ceremony and Leroy Malaterre operating as the Arena Director and Co-MC.
The leadership team also includes Head Veteran Daniel Blue Tail, Head Man Shawn Skeel, Head Lady Kichie Malaterre, Head Junior Man Kevin Hudson and Head Junior Lady Bentlie Malaterre.
A major highlight of this year’s powwow is the return of Buffalo Child, who is of 14/16 Plains Cree and part Nakota heritage. An accomplished actor and performer, Buffalo Child has appeared in over 100 movies, films and television shows, with notable credits including Dances with Wolves, Crazy Horse and Call of the Wild.
Beyond his master of ceremony duties, he will share the rich history of Smudging and Powwows and captivate audiences with a traditional Hoop Dance performance. These special presentations will run from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday. Organizers note that seating is limited, and attendees are strongly encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs.
The event offers affordable admission tiers to encourage wide community attendance. Children aged three and under can enter for free, tickets for children under 10 are $3, individuals aged 10 to 59 are $5, and elders aged 60 and older receive free admission. Furthermore, complimentary entry is extended to all dancers, veterans, EMTs, police officers and firefighters who present a valid ID.
For more information regarding the event, the public can reach out to coordinator Cyndi Capps at 812-821-4406.
