Bring Your Family to the Pow-Wow

by Diane Rodriquez for the SILETZ News

Many different Tribal nations will be represented at the annual Nesika Illahee Pow-Wow on Aug. 12-14 in Siletz, Ore., held by the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians. The public is invited to attend this family-friendly event, a tradition for the Siletz people and other American Indians.

All events, except the parade, take place at the Pauline Ricks Memorial Pow-Wow Grounds on Government Hill in Siletz. "This is a great way for people to experience American Indian culture right here on the Oregon Coast," said Mona Fisher, cultural education coordinator for the Siletz Tribe. "You can learn about the different styles of pow-wow dancing, see the beautiful regalia up close and even participate yourself in some of the intertribal dances."

For more information, schedule of events and parade registration click on this link  pow wow

A parade winds through downtown Siletz at 10 a.m. on  Aug. 13. This hometown event includes Tribal royalty, drummers, dancers, equestrian units, vintage cars and floats.

A variety of food, Native arts and crafts and jewelry will be offered for sale by more than 50 vendors on the powwow grounds.
"Our vendors will have lots of American Indian-made items," said Nick Sixkiller, pow-wow emcee and education specialist for the Siletz Tribe. "You'll see beadwork, clothing, art and tons of delicious food, all for sale by many families who supplement their income with sales at various pow-wows throughout the powwow trail."

A free shuttle will be available from various parking lots in Siletz to the powwow on Government Hill. Signs will be posted. Parking is extremely limited at the pow-wow grounds, which makes the shuttle the best way to get there. This alcohol- and drug-free event is
free. Listen carefully to the pow-wow announcer, who will tell you when you can and when you should not take photos. The announcer also will explain the significance of the events taking place in the dance arena throughout the pow-wow.

Pow-Wow Schedule

Aug. 13
6 p.m. – Royalty Crowning
7 p.m. – Grand Entry

Aug. 14
10 a.m. – Parade
1 p.m. and 7 p.m. – Grand Entry

Aug. 15
Noon – Grand Entry