O’NEALS — The 49th annual Indian Fair Days and Pow Wow will be held Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 3-4 at Minarets High.
The popular community event, sponsored by the nonprofit Sierra Mono Museum, is the longest-running pow wow in Central California.
North Fork and surrounding areas are home to many members of the Mono, a tribe who has lived in the Sierra Nevada area for centuries.
Organizers at the Sierra Mono Museum say the origins of pow wow have risen from economic, social, and cultural experiences of many Native American tribes. These cultural celebrations provide opportunities for people to come together in song and dance, make friends, renew old alliances, and enjoy arts and crafts.
For many, pow wows have spiritual and religious significance. Nowadays, pow wows are intertribal, with older ways brought forth into the present day and age, helping to solidify Indian communities and promote traditional customs. In addition to the North Fork Mono, members of other tribes from California and throughout the nation also participate.
The weekend-long occasion instills and elevates pride in Native and non-native families, giving all generations the chance to display their traditional heritage. Contestants showcase skills and intricate regalia during the two-day dance competition.
Pow wow attendees enjoy traditional music, competitive dancing, food and native craft vendors. Gates open at 9 a.m. and the grand entry is at noon on Saturday and Sunday. The cost to attend is $2 per person in advance or $5 at the gate. Kids 12 and under may enter at no charge.
The Sierra Mono Museum is currently undergoing a major renovation and community support is needed for the final phase of the build. Indian Fair Days and Pow Wow is one of the major fundraisers for museum operations.
All contributions are tax deductible. Support for the museum can also be shown by becoming a member or providing a contribution at a variety of support levels.
For more information regarding contributing to the renovation project or becoming a museum member, please contact museum president Christina McDonald at (559) 676-8238 or by e-mail at christina@sierramonomuseum.org or museum treasurer Rose Davis Cobb at rose@sierramonomuseum.org.
More information on the Pow Wow can also be obtained by calling the Sierra Mono Museum voicemail at (559) 877-2115.
